Sade

Where they’re from: Ibadan, Nigeria

Who they are: One of the best-selling female British artists, Sade is an icon of jazz pop music in the 80s and beyond. She got her start in the entertainment industry as a model and fashion designer, and as a backup singer for the band Pride. With former members of Pride she started her own band in 1983 and quickly rose to fame. Sade’s soulful contralto voice and funk-leaning band arrangements paved the way for R&B and pop artists of the 90s into now.

Years active: 1982 – present

Essential albums: Diamond Life (1984), Stronger than Pride (1988), Love Deluxe (1992)