After a six-year hiatus, legendary singer Sade has returned with a heartfelt new single, Young Lion, dedicated to her transgender son, Izaak Adu. The song is part of TRAИƧA, a compilation album celebrating trans identities, released by activist organization Red Hot.
A Personal Tribute to Sade’s Son
Young Lion is an emotional ballad capturing Sade’s love, regret, and support for Izaak’s journey. Lyrics such as, “Young man/ It’s been so heavy for you/ You must have felt so alone,” reveal her deep reflection on the challenges he faced. In a poignant moment, she sings, “Forgive me son/ I should have known,” expressing vulnerability and understanding.
The music video spans nearly three decades, showcasing tender moments between Sade and Izaak. It begins with childhood memories and culminates in a touching beachside embrace. One fan remarked online, “Considering Sade’s always been so private, this means something for her to share such intimate footage.”
Izaak shared his gratitude on Instagram, writing, “Mumma, thank you for doing this… It is so important to me, and I believe it will be to many others, too. Thank you for always giving me the freedom to be ME and fiercely loving me through it all. I love you more than words can say.”
A Broader Message
TRAИƧA features over 100 artists, including André 3000, Sam Smith, and Moses Sumney. Red Hot described the project as a celebration of trans history and resilience, calling it “a blueprint of possibility” for oppressed communities.
Sade’s involvement stemmed from a personal letter by artist and activist Massima Bell, who thanked her for publicly supporting Izaak. Upon hearing Young Lion, Bell noted, “Her voice felt so charged… I was in tears.”
Izaak reflected on the song’s deeper meaning with Rolling Stone: “Though there was nothing I needed to forgive her for, the lyrics struck a chord… She always let me be me.”
With Young Lion, Sade not only returns to music but also amplifies a message of love, acceptance, and transformation. Fans and activists alike are hailing the release as a powerful testament to both artistry and advocacy.