Emeli Sandé: That's What I Call....

A gorgeous album that my Mum introduced me to when I was 14. Sade was always playing in the house growing up. Effortlessly cool, seductive and moving. It’s an absolutely timeless album that demonstrates that sometimes less is more. The considered production that brings depth whilst still allowing space for Sade’s velvet voice to shine is stunning. The lyrics are genius. Sade is an icon and this album is a total gem.

I heard this album for the first time when I was around 13. Her lyrics, style, voice, honesty and unapologetic pride lit a fire within me. This album empowered me and so many others. Still to this day, it sounds so fresh. She set the bar incredibly high with this masterpiece.

This album takes me to another world. It’s so sexy yet possesses an undeniable spiritual depth that pulls me into another world on every listen. I love the freedom and confidence in his songwriting. The way in which the band’s chemistry is captured so organically is totally mesmerising.

My dad introduced me to the incredible power, purity, and agility of Mariah Carey’s voice with this album. I was seven and vividly remember falling in love with singing through this album. The impeccable combination of her voice, the force of the gospel choirs, and brilliant songwriting is why this album will always remain in my Top 5!

The King Stevie! This album is a masterclass in songwriting — storytelling is second to none! I heard this album growing up and it left an indelible impression on me. The power of melody and the beauty of vocal tone were its biggest lessons. To this day, the message of each song deeply resonates with me on every listen.