One-named hit singer with 1985's "Smooth Operator" nyt crossword clue

The clue "One-named hit singer with 1985's 'Smooth Operator'" is referring to a specific artist known for the song title and their unique one-name identity. The song "Smooth Operator" was famously performed by the artist **Sade**. ### Solving Process: 1. **Analyze the Clue**: The phrase "One-named" suggests that the answer is a single name or moniker. This is a hallmark of artists who achieve fame with just one name. 2. **Identify the Song**: Since the clue specifically mentions the year (1985) and a well-known song titled "Smooth Operator," I recall that Sade is the artist associated with that track. 3. **Confirm the Answer**: Given the focus on a one-name artist and the connection to the song in question, Sade fits perfectly. ### Relevant Knowledge Points: - **Sade** is an English band led by the singer Sade Adu, whose smooth and jazzy style was particularly popular in the 1980s and 1990s. - The song "Smooth Operator" is a classic hit, known for its sultry lyrics and catchy melody, which helped to establish Sade as a significant figure in pop and soul music. ### Tips for Solving: - **Look for Famous Single-Name Artists**: When dealing with clues that mention one-named individuals, think of music icons, characters from literature, or historical figures who are commonly known by a singular name (e.g., Madonna, Cher, etc.). - **Familiarity with Music History**: Having a good grasp of popular music history can be extremely beneficial, particularly with common terms and well-known tracks. - **Use Contextual Cues**: Often, the combination of years and well-known songs can guide you to specific artists, especially those with distinctive styles or eras. In conclusion, for the given clue, the correct answer is **Sade**.