Legendary singer D’Angelo, who helped pioneer the sound of neo-soul and inspired an entire generation of R&B artists, has died at the age of 51.
Born Michael Eugene Archer, the Grammy award-winning musician passed away at his home in New York City on October 14 following a private battle with pancreatic cancer, according to US outlet TMZ.
“The shining star of our family has dimmed his light for us in this life,” his family said in a statement confirming the news. “After a prolonged and courageous battle with cancer, we are heartbroken to announce that Michael D’Angelo Archer, known to his fans around the world as D’Angelo, has been called home, departing this life today, October 14th, 2025.
“We are saddened that he can only leave dear memories with his family, but we are eternally grateful for the legacy of extraordinarily moving music he leaves behind. We ask that you respect our privacy during this difficult time but invite you all join us in mourning his passing while also celebrating the gift of song that he has left for the world.”
A defining figure of 1990s R&B, D’Angelo rose to fame with his acclaimed 1995 debut album Brown Sugar, which helped shape the emerging neo-soul movement alongside contemporaries like Erykah Badu, Lauryn Hill and Maxwell. His follow-up record, Voodoo (2000), was hailed as a masterpiece, earning him two Grammy Awards including Best R&B Album and Best Male R&B Vocal Performance for his sultry hit Untitled (How Does It Feel).
The song, and its now-iconic music video, cemented his status as one of music’s most magnetic performers and sparked cultural conversations about masculinity, artistry and vulnerability in soul music.
After a lengthy hiatus from the spotlight, D’Angelo made a triumphant return in 2014 with Black Messiah, a politically charged, funk-infused album that once again drew critical acclaim and won the Grammy for Best R&B Album in 2016.
Over the course of his career, he was credited with bridging the gap between classic soul and contemporary R&B, drawing inspiration from legends such as Prince, Marvin Gaye and Sly Stone while influencing artists including Frank Ocean, H.E.R. and Anderson .Paak.
Tributes have poured in across social media from fans and fellow musicians praising his artistry and timeless sound.
The record store Rough Trade wrote on X: “The DNA of R&B. A timeless voice which set the tone for modern soul. A world-class talent gone too soon. RIP D'Angelo.”
Rapper Flavor Flav also posted on the social media platform: “R.I.P. ICON D’Angelo”.
The DJ and record producer Alchemist, under his name on X as Alchemist Type Beat, also said: “Man. Rest in peace D’Angelo.”
DJ Premier, who helped to produce one of D’Angelo’s most famous songs in ‘Devil’s Pie’, wrote on X: “Such a sad loss to the passing of D’Angelo. We have so many great times. Gonna miss you so much. Sleep Peacefully D’ Love You KING.”
D’Angelo is survived by his family and son Michael Jr. Funeral arrangements are expected to be announced in the coming days.
