Legendary R&B and neo-soul singer D’Angelo, known for hits like ‘Brown Sugar’ and ‘Untitled,’ has passed away at 51.
R&B and neo-soul icon D’Angelo has reportedly passed away at the age of 51, leaving fans and fellow artists mourning the loss of one of music’s most influential voices.
The news was first shared by journalist Marc Lamont Hill, who posted on X (formerly Twitter), “My sources tell me that D’Angelo has passed. Wow. I have no words. May he rest in perfect peace.” While official confirmation from the singer’s family has yet to surface, reports suggest he died in New York after a private battle with pancreatic cancer.
Tributes poured in immediately across social media, reflecting D’Angelo’s lasting influence on contemporary music.
My sources tell me that D’Angelo has passed. Wow. I have no words. May he rest in perfect peace.
— Marc Lamont Hill (@marclamonthill) October 14, 2025
DJ Premier wrote, “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 also shared, “Man. Rest in peace D’Angelo,” while Tyler, the Creator posted a black-and-white image of the late artist without a caption, letting the photo speak for itself.
Born Michael Eugene Archer on February 11, 1974, in Richmond, Virginia, D’Angelo rose to fame with his critically acclaimed debut album Brown Sugar in 1995. The record spent over a year on the Billboard 200 and earned platinum status, introducing his smooth blend of R&B, funk, and hip-hop to a global audience.
The album earned him four Grammy nominations and helped popularize the neo-soul movement, influencing a generation of artists and reshaping modern R&B.
His second album, Voodoo (2000), debuted at No. 1 on the Billboard 200 and featured the timeless single “Untitled (How Does It Feel)”, which became one of the most defining R&B songs of its era.
After more than a decade away from the spotlight, D’Angelo made a triumphant return with Black Messiah in 2014, a politically charged project that debuted at No. 5 and reaffirmed his artistic relevance.
Throughout his career, D’Angelo collaborated with artists such as Erykah Badu, Lauryn Hill, Questlove, and Angie Stone, leaving an indelible mark on the music industry with his innovative sound and heartfelt performances.
D’Angelo’s passing marks the end of an era for neo-soul and R&B, but his music, influence, and spirit will continue to inspire artists and fans worldwide.
