R&B Legend D’Angelo dies at 51 after battle with cancer

The impact of D'Angelo goes well beyond his three studio albums. A new generation of artists, including Frank Ocean and Anderson, were inspired by his sound, musicianship, and spiritual depth, which changed the face of contemporary R&B. Paak to Leon Bridges and H.E.R.

After a protracted and valiant fight with cancer, legendary R&B singer D'Angelo, who is frequently credited as one of the forerunners of the neo-soul movement, passed away at the age of 51.

In a statement to Variety, his family confirmed the devastating news, stating:

“The shining star of our family has dimmed his light for us in this life… 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.”

They went on to say that although they are deeply saddened by his passing, they will always be "thankful for the legacy of extraordinarily moving music he leaves behind."

An artist whose music influenced an era has been honoured with tributes from all over the world. DJ Premier, who worked with D'Angelo on Devil's Pie, posted a heartfelt message on social media:

“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.”

Born Michael Eugene Archer in Richmond, Virginia, D’Angelo showed a gift for music from an early age, playing piano by the time he was three and performing in his father’s church. His love for gospel and soul would later become the foundation of his sound.

By the early ’90s, he had signed with EMI and written U Will Know for Black Men United before stepping into the spotlight with his groundbreaking 1995 debut album, Brown Sugar.

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Blending classic soul grooves with a modern, hip-hop edge, Brown Sugar redefined R&B and inspired a new wave of artists including Maxwell and Erykah Badu. His next album, Voodoo (2000), created with the Soulquarians — a collective featuring Questlove, J Dilla, and Roy Hargrove — was hailed as a masterpiece, earning him multiple Grammy Awards and solidifying his place in music history.

But the fame that came with hits like Untitled (How Does It Feel) took a toll on the famously private artist. After years away from the spotlight, he made a triumphant return in 2014 with Black Messiah, a politically charged and musically rich album that proved his artistry had only deepened with time.