Emerging vocalist Norelle has unveiled a captivating cover of Sade Adu’s iconic track, “Like a Tattoo,” just ahead of the legendary singer’s 65th birthday on January 16th. This release serves as a heartfelt tribute, showcasing Norelle’s deep admiration for Sade and her enduring musical influence.
Norelle’s reimagining of “Like a Tattoo” breathes new life into the Sade classic, expertly produced by Romero Mosley and Iyeball. The track is further enriched by the talents of Keyon Harrold on horns and Eric Nicholas on keys, adding layers of soulful instrumentation to Norelle’s vocal performance. This cover is not just a rendition; it’s a thoughtful interpretation that respects the original while allowing Norelle’s artistry to shine through.
Sade Love Deluxe
Reflecting on her decision to cover “Like a Tattoo,” Norelle shared with Rated R&B, “Sade’s performance of this song is incredibly captivating and majestic. It embodies a feeling that is rare and often missing in today’s music landscape.” Her words highlight the timeless quality of Sade Adu’s music and the profound impact it has had on artists like Norelle.
She further elaborated on her artistic intent, stating, “As an artist who deeply values musical integrity, I wanted to explore and offer my perspective on a song that is already so exquisitely crafted. From the storytelling and minimalism to the rich chords, I aimed to honor its beauty while presenting it through my own artistic lens.” This statement underscores Norelle’s respect for the original song and her desire to bring her unique vocal and emotional depth to the beloved track.
The original “Like a Tattoo” is featured on Sade’s critically acclaimed fourth album, Love Deluxe, which was released in October 1992. This album solidified Sade Adu’s status as a global music icon and “Like a Tattoo” remains a standout track for many fans.
On Spotify, “Like a Tattoo” has garnered an impressive 110 million streams, making it the second-most streamed song from Love Deluxe. The album is spearheaded by the chart-topping single “No Ordinary Love,” which boasts an even greater 168 million streams, demonstrating the album’s enduring popularity and influence.
Norelle’s “Like a Tattoo” marks her first official release since her 2021 project, A Story About Love. This seven-song project offered listeners a glimpse into Norelle’s artistry, featuring singles like “Planted,” “Deeper,” and “Back Into You.” A Story About Love established Norelle as a rising voice in contemporary R&B, known for her evocative lyrics and soulful delivery.
Norelle A Story About Love
Speaking about A Story About Love, Norelle revealed, “The project drew from very personal and genuine experiences – situations I’ve navigated, grown from, and continue to process. My intention is to encourage listeners to connect with these emotions on a profound level. I want to inspire people to embrace self-love and acceptance.” This insight into her previous work provides context for her artistic depth and emotional resonance, qualities that are undoubtedly present in her cover of “Like a Tattoo”.
While focusing on her artistry, Norelle has also been actively working behind the scenes as a sought-after backing vocalist. Her recent high-profile engagements include touring with Alicia Keys and performing alongside Rihanna at the phenomenal Apple Music Super Bowl LVII Halftime Show. These experiences have further honed her skills and exposed her to a global audience.
Adding to her diverse portfolio, Norelle recently showcased her vocal talent by performing the national anthem at the Kansas City Chiefs versus Los Angeles Chargers game. These varied performances highlight Norelle’s versatility and her growing presence in the music industry.
Looking ahead, Norelle is set to release an original single this Friday, January 12th, promising new music that will further solidify her position as a solo artist. She also anticipates future opportunities to perform the national anthem at NBA and NFL games, continuing to broaden her reach and impact. Furthermore, on January 18th, Norelle will be joining Leon Bridges as a backing vocalist at The Marquis Park City in Park City, Utah, showcasing her collaborative spirit and in-demand vocal talent.
Norelle’s “Like a Tattoo” cover is now available for streaming, inviting listeners to experience her soulful tribute to Sade Adu and her unique take on a timeless classic. This release not only honors Sade Adu but also shines a spotlight on Norelle’s burgeoning talent and her promising future in music.
