America's most beloved singer, Michael Eugene Archer, famously known as "D’Angelo," died at the age of 51 after a battle against pancreatic cancer.
A rhythm and Blues musician died on October 14 in New York, United States, and the news was announced through his family.
D’Angelo’s family declared his death through a heartfelt, emotional announcement, “The Shining star of our family has dimmed his light for us in this life.”
“He left behind a legacy of extraordinary moving music and asked fans to celebrate the gift of song that he has left for the world”, his family informed.
The Grammy-winning singer was known for pioneering neo-soul, a genre blending R&B with other types of music, including hip-hop and jazz.
D'Angelo's work has been recognized globally after three of his albums won four Grammy Awards, including Best R&B for both Voodoo (2001) and Messiah (2016).
Moreover, D’Angelo gathered worldwide attention after he started co-writing and co-producing the 1994 single U will know by the R&B supergroup Black Men United.
While recognizing his contributions to the music industry Billboard named him one of the greatest R&B artists while the Rollingstone Magazine ranked him 75th on its list of the 200 Greatest Singers of All Time.
Born on February 11, 1974, D’Angelo started his career in 1995.
At the age of 17, he met Afropunk Festival's partner Jocelyn Cooper, who signed him to "Midnight Songs LLC" and her joint venture publishing company, administered by Universal Music Publishing Group, after hearing a demo that D’Angelo produced and rapped on.
D’Angelo’s death has left the music industry in grief. Tributes started pouring in after the news of his demise.
Many celebrities and top musicians, including Beyoncé, shared their heartfelt emotional messages to commemorate D'Angelo's extraordinary legacy.
“Rest in peace, Michael Eugene Archer, known to the world of music as the inimitable Angelo, we thank you for your beautiful music, your voice, your proficiency on the piano, and your artistry," said Beyoncé.
"You were the pioneer of neo-soul and that changed and transformed rhythm & blues forever," the heartfelt note concluded, "We will never forget you," she added.
In addition to Beyoncé, numerous artists and friends of D’Angelo from the music industry have expressed their condolences over this tragic loss, including notable figures like The Alchemist, DJ Premier, and Tyler, the Creator.
American rappers like Doja Cat and Missy Elliott, alongside singers Jill Scott, Jennifer Hudson, and Bartees Strange, began honoring his memory with heartfelt messages of respect.
"A true voice of soul and inspiration to many brilliant artists of our generation and generations to come," Doja Cat wrote on X.
Jennifer Hudson said "we lost a true original today".
"D'Angelo, your voice will live on forever. Rest well, King!!!"
Additionally, Tyler the Creator said his "musical DNA" was shaped by D'Angelo - "We are so lucky to have been alive to enjoy his art," he wrote.
