R&B and soul singer D’Angelo has passed away. He was 51 years old.
According to Baller Alert, who first reported on the story, the neo-soul singer died following a private battle with pancreatic cancer on Tuesday morning in New York City.
His family confirmed his death in a statement obtained by Variety: “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.”
He first received success in the music business for co-producing the single “U Will Know” for the R&B supergroup Black Men United, which was made up of Brian McKnight, Usher, R. Kelly, Boyz II Men, Raphael Saadiq and Gerald Levert.
He immediately saw solo success after he released his debut album “Brown Sugar” in 1995, which included the hit single “Brown Sugar,” “Lady,” “Cruisin'” and “Me and Those Dreamin’ Eyes of Mine.” The album went platinum within a year of its release.
D’Angelo saw further success with his 2000 album “Voodoo,” which debuted at No. 1 on the U.S. Billboard 200. His single “Untitled (How Does It Feel)” won him the Grammy for Best Male R&B Performance. It was accompanied by a provocative music video, which showcased the singer naked. The album itself won the award for Best R&B Album.
In 2014, he released the album “Black Messiah,” after taking a hiatus from music. The album won the Grammy for Best R&B Album. His single “Really Love” from the project also won the Grammy for Best R&B Song.
He’s credited for being a pioneer of the neo-soul movement, which included Maxwell, Erykah Badu and Lauryn Hill.
He was reportedly working on an album with Raphael Saadiq, but it will now be released posthumously.
Hollywood paid tribute to the singer’s life on social media.
“Rest in peace D’Angelo,” wrote singer Doja Cat on X. “My thoughts, love and prayers go out to his family and friends. A true voice of soul and inspiration to many brilliant artists of our generation and generations to come.”
Rapper Flavor Flav wrote, “R.I.P. ICON D’Angelo” alongside prayer hands and dove emojis.
D’Angelo is survived by his two sons and one daughter. He shares one of his sons with former partner, soul singer Angie Stone. She passed away in March of 2025.
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