The music world is mourning the loss of one of its most soulful voices as Grammy-winning R&B singer and songwriter D’Angelo has died at the age of 51. The influential artist reportedly passed away on Tuesday morning in New York City after a private battle with pancreatic cancer.

Born Michael D’Angelo Archer, the Virginia-born musician emerged in the mid-1990s as a leading voice in the neo-soul movement, fusing traditional R&B with funk, gospel, and jazz influences. His 1995 debut album, Brown Sugar, not only achieved platinum success but also redefined the sound of contemporary soul, paving the way for artists like Maxwell, Erykah Badu, and Musiq Soulchild.

D’Angelo’s 2000 album Voodoo cemented his place among R&B’s greats, earning him two Grammy Awards—including Best R&B Album and Best Male R&B Vocal Performance for the sultry hit Untitled (How Does It Feel). The song’s provocative video, which featured the singer in a minimalist, intimate setting, stirred controversy but became an enduring cultural moment that shaped how sensuality and vulnerability were expressed in R&B visuals.

His long-awaited 2014 release, Black Messiah, marked a powerful return, blending political consciousness with deeply personal songwriting. The album won Best R&B Album at the 2016 Grammys, while Really Love earned Best R&B Song, reaffirming his musical relevance across decades.

Beyond awards, D’Angelo’s influence was monumental—his sound inspired a generation of artists and helped define the neo-soul genre’s golden era. In 2023, Rolling Stone ranked him No. 75 on its list of the 200 Greatest Singers of All Time, a nod to his unmatched artistry and impact on modern R&B.

In a statement released to Billboard, his family expressed profound grief:

“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, Oct. 14, 2025.”

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They added,

“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 everyone to join us in celebrating the gift of song he shared with the world.”

D’Angelo is survived by three children, including a son with fellow R&B singer Angie Stone, who herself passed away earlier this year following a car accident.

His death closes a remarkable chapter in the evolution of R&B—one defined by emotional depth, creative daring, and an unyielding devotion to the craft of soul music. D’Angelo’s voice and vision will continue to echo through generations yet to come.