Legendary R&B Artist D’Angelo Has Died

R&B and neo-soul legend D’Angelo has died, according to several media outlets, reportedly after a battle with pancreatic cancer. The musician was 51 years old.

Variety shared a statement from D’Angelo’s family:

“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.”

Born in Richmond, Virginia on February 11, 1974, Michael D’Angelo Archer went on to become a neo-soul pioneer, known for his velvet vocals and musical versatility. D’Angelo released his acclaimed debut album, Brown Sugar, in 1995.

D’Angelo’s 2000 LP, Voodoo, cemented the singer as an R&B innovator. Following a 14-year hiatus, D’Angelo released Black Messiah in 2014, which won the Best R&B Album at the 2016 Grammy Awards.

In more recent years, D’Angelo appeared on Verzuz and in 2024 collaborated with Jay-Z on “I Want You Forever” for The Book of Clarence soundtrack. Musician and friend Raphael Saadiq noted in a Rolling Stone podcast interview that D’Angelo had been working on new music.

Known for his artistic integrity and musical virtuosity, tributes have already begun pouring in for the influential musician.