D’Angelo, the Grammy-winning R&B singer and musician who helped define neo-soul, died on October 14, 2025, at age 51. His family confirmed the cause as pancreatic cancer. He passed away in New York City after a long illness.

Born Michael Eugene Archer in Richmond, Virginia, D’Angelo rose to fame in the 1990s with his debut album Brown Sugar. The record introduced a new wave of soul influenced by gospel, funk, and hip-hop. His 2000 follow-up, Voodoo, won widespread critical acclaim and several Grammy Awards.

In 2014, after a 14-year hiatus, he returned with Black Messiah, a politically charged and musically ambitious album that earned universal praise. His sound influenced a generation of artists, including Frank Ocean, Anderson .Paak, and H.E.R.

D’Angelo became a symbol of musical authenticity, known for his perfectionism and rare public appearances. His video for “Untitled (How Does It Feel)” made him a cultural phenomenon while showing his resistance to commercial expectations.

He was deeply private throughout his career. Friends and collaborators, including Questlove and Raphael Saadiq, described him as a “true artist” who never compromised his vision. Fans worldwide are mourning the loss while celebrating the timelessness of his work.

D’Angelo is survived by his children, including his son Michael Jr., from his relationship with the late singer Angie Stone.