"Diamond Life" is the debut studio album by the British band Sade, released in 1984. It blends elements of smooth jazz, soul, and pop, and is known for its sophisticated and sultry sound. The album features Sade Adu's distinct and captivating vocals, along with a polished musical production that incorporates elements of Latin rhythms and electronic influences. "Diamond Life" includes hit tracks like "Smooth Operator" and "Your Love Is King," which helped establish Sade's unique style and gained them international recognition. The album's sensual and atmospheric vibe, combined with Sade's charismatic presence, contributed to its lasting appeal and influence in the realm of contemporary adult-oriented music.
I have an interesting personal relationship with the record. My first encounter with Sade was after listening to Jezebel off Promise, and it sparked my interest on the genre, sound, and artist so I dug deeper into their discography. Diamond Life was an instant like for me because of the absolute banger that is Smooth Operator. This excitement carried over to when I found my copy. As many collectors would relate, the record was just at my house collecting dust for a few months until a good friend offered to buy it from me. Without hesitation, I parted ways with the record, but shortly after realized I should've kept it. After a long search, I found a new copy and it has been spinning since.