Beloved R&B and neo-soul singer D’Angelo, born Michael Eugene Archer, has died at the age of 51 after a prolonged and private struggle with pancreatic cancer, his family confirmed.
In a public statement, the family said:
“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.”
The family noted that the singer died in New York City.
A Brief Look at His Life and Legacy
Early Life & Rise Born on February 11, 1974, in Richmond, Virginia, D’Angelo displayed musical talent from a young age. He learned piano as a child and later taught himself other instruments.
He broke into the national spotlight in the mid-1990s. His 1995 debut album, Brown Sugar, achieved platinum status and helped define the neo-soul movement. Hits like “Lady” and “Brown Sugar” established him as a distinctive new voice in R&B.
His second album, Voodoo (2000), topped the Billboard 200 and won the Grammy Award for Best R&B Album. The single “Untitled (How Does It Feel)” earned him the Grammy for Best Male R&B Vocal Performance and became iconic for both its musical and visual impact.
After a long hiatus from releasing music, D’Angelo returned in 2014 with Black Messiah, which was met with widespread critical acclaim and earned him further accolades.
Personal Struggles & Later Years Though deeply respected as an artist, D’Angelo also faced periods of personal challenge. Over the years, he was open about struggles with alcohol, the burden of fame, and times away from the public eye.
In 2025, ahead of his passing, he had canceled a headline performance at the Roots Picnic, citing medical reasons tied to a surgery he underwent earlier in the year.
At the time of his death, D’Angelo was reportedly working on new material with longtime collaborator Raphael Saadiq.
Surviving Family He leaves behind three children. With singer Angie Stone, who passed away earlier in 2025, he shares a son, Michael Archer Jr., known by the stage name Swayvo Twain. He is also survived by his daughter Imani and another son born in 2010.
Reaction & Legacy
News of D’Angelo’s passing quickly ignited tributes across the music world. Artists, fans, and contemporaries honored his contribution to modern soul and R&B.
DJ Premier, who collaborated with him, wrote on social media:
“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.”
In many obituaries, he is remembered not just for individual songs but for reshaping the emotional depth and musical complexity of R&B — infusing gospel, jazz, funk, and hip-hop into a singular voice.
His three studio albums — Brown Sugar, Voodoo, and Black Messiah — are often held up as modern classics.
In the wake of his death, many fans and commentators have likened his influence to a bridge between traditional soul and contemporary instrumentation, noting how his approach to rhythm, texture, and musical restraint continues to inspire new generations of artists.
This is a developing story. Journalists and music historians are expected to publish further details about funeral arrangements, unreleased works, and tributes in the coming days.
