Music Details
Artist
Label
Genre
More details
See more music reviews

Soldier of Love (by Sade, Adult Contemporary)

common sense media says

Smooth as silk, strong as steel, but best for older kids.

parents & educators say
See all 4 reviews | Review it

What parents need to know

Parents need to know that this popular album is mostly fine for older kids, although most won't be interested. The main concern is a song called "Bring Me Home," which is a little depressing and discusses nobly ending one's existence. Although suicide is not directly implied, there are references to "a sword against my heart" and letting the tide take the narrator away. Also, "Babyfather" is a sentimental but not graphic song about paternity. Most of the other songs portray a strong-hearted woman who doesn't let a little heartbreak bring her down. And despite Sade's sensual voice, there's very little sexy talk here.

Positive messages: Strength amidst struggle is a major theme of the album, from the militaristic title track to "The Safest Place," with lines such as "your love's in a sacred place, my heart has been a lonely warrior who has been in war before so you can be sure, in my love your heart has found, the safest hiding place."
Positive role models: Sade presents a strong role model as a woman who has courage and determination. She doesn't let guys push her around or victimize her. In fact, she portrays herself as a warrior who fights for things she loves. On "Bring Me Home," however, this resolve weakens and the narrator contemplates letting go of everything. "The ground is full of broken stones, the last leaf has fallen, I've nowhere to turn now...turn my sword against my heart, let the tide take me I won't fight."
Violence: A song called "Bring Me Home" is a little depressing and discusses nobly ending one's existence. Although suicide is not directly implied, there are references to "a sword against my heart" and letting the tide take the narrator away.
Sex: Most of the album is comprised of songs about love. "Babyfather" is a "how I met your mother" style track that discusses the conception of a child: "He had the whole street set ablaze...the baby gonna have your smile for sure, so love grew, a flower, a flower that is you."
Our ratings and reviews are informed by child development guidelines. Learn more.

More on Soldier of Love

What to talk about

Talk to your kids

  • Families can talk about depression and positive ways to react to bad situations. Sade sings about giving up on life on one track. Do you ever feel hopeless about your life? Who should you talk to when you're feeling sad? Has there ever been a situation that has made you feel overwhelmed and depressed? What can you do to avoid negative situations online?

  • Talk about celebrities in the spotlight. Sade has surprisingly avoided media attention and is known for her private nature. How does this differ from other celebrities? Why do you think some celebrities court the media and others try to be more private?

  • Talk about music that is topping the download charts. Why do you think some albums become so popular? Did you expect Sade's album to be as popular as it is? Why do you think so many people have downloaded the album? When an album is very popular, do you become more interested in it?

What's the story?

What's the story?

Most artists that are away from the music scene don't generally make their return debut atop the album charts. But that's just what Sade has done with SOLDIER OF LOVE. Keeping with her trademark sound, the British/Nigerian soul singer tackles love and relationships with a newfound aggressiveness. Here drums that sound straight out of a marching army and themes of war, safe places, and warriors give this album a kick-butt attitude.

Is it any good?

Is it any good?
 

Sade has always been a flawless singer, a smooth vocalist who never stooped to the level of high-pitch tricks to get her sensuous point across. But with this new album, the soul singer makes the leap from legendary lounge singer to mythic force. These are epic songs, not just love ballads, and like a classic Greek myth they rise to iconic status at the same time they languish in the reality of human nature. Check out "Babyfather," which breaks out of the "soldier" theme with a sentimental song about paternity, and "The Moon and the Sky" for an enchanting musical voyage. Most teens may not be interested, but those who give it a chance will find lots to enjoy.

Music themes & details

Music Details
Released on: February 12, 2010
Label: Sony Music
Genre: Adult Contemporary
This review was written by Jacqueline Rupp
 
 

Review It

 

Review Soldier of Love

Hang on! You need to be a member to post your review.
A safe community is important to us. Please observe our guidelines.
 

Most useful reviews by all members

Shovia
adult
17
 
Perfect for all.
I think it is excellent. We all should be a soldier for love in this day and age. There is so much anger and stress in the world and everyone is lashing out. Love is what we need. I know I am a soldier of love. I would never let a bad relationship stunt my growth of love.
Flag as inappropriate 
was this review useful?
helped me decide (3) | had useful details (3) | read my mind (4)
EJ-TV.WEBS.COM
teen, 16 years old
2
 
Not Sexy at All
REALLY LAME AND NASTY LADY GAGA IS SOOOOOO BETTER YEAH HUH
Flag as inappropriate 
was this review useful?
helped me decide (3) | had useful details (3) | read my mind (2)
l13
teen, 13 years old
10
 
Perfect song
The song is perfect for any age
Flag as inappropriate 
was this review useful?
helped me decide (3) | had useful details (1) | read my mind (2)
lovealloverme1234
teen, 15 years old
17
 
love it
Flag as inappropriate 
was this review useful?
helped me decide (1) | had useful details (1) | read my mind (1)

More reviews ...

An independent voice for families
Age-appropriate reviews
Advice on the big issues
 

vote now

Will you add Soldier of Love to your playlist?

Absolutely
Maybe
No way

Already listened to it? What do you think?

I recommend it
It's a pass
 

Great alternatives handpicked by our editors

Smooth and soulful sounds
For kids who love soothing sounds
Browse more music
About our rating system
ON: Content is appropriate for kids this age.
PAUSE: Know your child, some content may not be right for some kids
OFF: Not age appropriate for kids this age
Our child development rating guidelines