D’Angelo, the iconic soul and R&B artist, has reportedly died at the age of 51.
Born Michael Eugene Archer, the celebrated musician passed away on Tuesday (October 14), after a private battle with pancreatic cancer.
His family released the following statement: “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.
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.”
Tributes from fans and fellow artists have already been shared widely. DJ Premier reflected on their time together in a heartfelt message on X (formerly Twitter), saying: “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.”
The Alchemist simply stated, “Man. Rest in peace D’Angelo,” while Tyler, The Creator honored him by sharing a photo of the late singer.
D’Angelo, born on February 11, 1974, in Richmond, Virginia, made his mark on the music scene during the mid-1990s with his groundbreaking debut album, “Brown Sugar”. The album produced timeless tracks like “Lady”, “Cruisin’”, “Me And Those Dreamin’ Eyes Of Mine”, and the title track “Brown Sugar”. Both a critical and commercial success, the project earned a Grammy nomination for Best R&B Album and achieved platinum status through the RIAA.
In 2000, D’Angelo released “Voodoo”, his magnum opus that defined the “Soulquarians” era — a movement he led alongside Questlove, J Dilla, Erykah Badu, and Common. The album was a masterwork of neo-soul, reaching the top of the charts and solidifying his legacy as one of the genre’s greats.
However, the release also brought challenges. His sensual music video for “Untitled (How Does It Feel?)” garnered widespread attention but also pushed him into an unwanted role as a sex symbol, causing him to withdraw from the public eye.
D’Angelo leaves behind a storied legacy that changed the soundscape of modern R&B and soul music forever. He will be deeply missed by fans and collaborators around the world.
