D’Angelo, the groundbreaking R&B artist who helped outline the neo-soul motion throughout a long time regardless of his reclusive nature, has died, reviews The New York Instances. D’Angelo’s household cited the trigger as most cancers. He was 51. This story is being up to date.
D’Angelo’s household shared a press release with Selection mourning the late star: “The shining star of our household has dimmed his gentle for us on this life…After a chronic and brave battle with most cancers, we’re heartbroken to announce that Michael D’Angelo Archer, recognized to his followers around the globe as D’Angelo, has been referred to as dwelling, departing this life at present, October 14th, 2025. We’re saddened that he can solely go away expensive reminiscences along with his household, however we’re eternally grateful for the legacy of terribly transferring music he leaves behind. We ask that you simply respect our privateness throughout this tough time however invite you all be part of us in mourning his passing whereas additionally celebrating the reward of track that he has left for the world.”
Though D’Angelo sporadically launched music, all three of his studio albums formed the panorama of R&B. His 1995 solo debut, Brown Sugar, pushed neo-soul into the broader consciousness when he was simply 21 years outdated. He returned in 2000 with Voodoo, incorporating funk into his repertoire to additional enliven the style with each an old-school timeless really feel and the vitality of a brand new class. The Virginia-born singer, songwriter, multi-instrumentalist, and producer made his grand return 14 years later with the Vanguard on Black Messiah, shaking the music trade along with his return.
Since Black Messiah, D’Angelo has launched one single underneath his personal title, “Unshaken,” for the online game Pink Lifeless Redemption 2. After becoming a member of GZA on Rapsody’s “IBTIHAJ” in 2019, D’Angelo made a visitor look on Slingbaum’s “Behoove” with Erykah Badu in early 2020. He additionally led a VERZUZ battle from the Apollo Theater in opposition to a lineup of buddies.
