The meaning of The Sweetest Taboo by Sade
"Sade's smooth and soulful single, "The Sweetest Taboo," captures listeners with its enticing rhythm and profoundly meaningful lyrics. The song, a hit from her second album, 'Promise,' brims with emotion, sensuality, and a deep sense of longing that instantly resonates with listeners, making it a timeless classic in the realm of soul music.
The song's title refers to something that is generally considered unacceptable or frowned upon by society, but in this context, Sade uses it in a more personal, intimate sense. Through her lyrics, she navigates a relationship that defies conventional norms, something so exquisite and irresistible that it becomes, as the title suggests, the sweetest taboo.
In the opening line, "If I tell you, if I tell you now", Sade insists that revealing her feelings will set her free. She communicates the authenticity of her emotions, a raw, passionate love that may be deemed unacceptable by others, but ultimately brings her immense gratification.
The lyrics "There's a quiet storm and it never felt like this before, there's a quiet storm that is you" are particularly significant as well. The quiet storm is a metaphor, symbolizing her lover's powerful yet understated influence on her. It's a compelling representation of how deep and impacting their relationship is.
Musically, "The Sweetest Taboo" stands out due to the pulsating rhythm, the deftly handled percussion, and Sade's whispery voice that perfectly aligns with the song's haunting narrative. The Latin-inspired beat gives it an exotic, enrapturing texture which complements the evocative lyrics.
One of the most captivating aspects of Sade's "The Sweetest Taboo" lies in its paradoxical nature. The juxtaposition of pleasure and societal disapproval is beautifully encapsulated in the lyrics. This thought-provoking exploration of an unconventional relationship embraces the idea that what is considered taboo could also foster the deepest of connections when love is involved.
From a global perspective, Sade's enduring hit continues to resonate due to its universal theme – the exploration of love in its most authentic, unadulterated form. It is an exclusive dedication to the brave souls who dare to love despite the boundaries and conventions.
To sum up, "The Sweetest Taboo" isn't just a song; it's a timeless tale of passionate love that defies societal norms. It is a declaration of the authenticity of one's feelings, regardless of how those emotions are perceived by the world. And undoubtedly, it is this raw, true depiction of love that makes the song one of Sade's most enduring classics."