D’Angelo, the renowned R&B artist known for his unique voice and iconic music video “Untitled (How Does It Feel),” has passed away at the age of 51. The singer, whose real name was Michael Eugene Archer, succumbed to cancer after a long battle, as confirmed by his family.
Described as a shining star by his family, D’Angelo was praised for his emotionally charged music that blended hip-hop, soul, and gospel elements, helping to shape the neo-soul movement of the 1990s. Earlier this year, he commemorated the 30th anniversary of his debut album “Brown Sugar,” which included hits like “Lady” and the title track, earning him critical acclaim and multiple Grammy nominations.
D’Angelo’s distinctive vocal style, characterized by a mix of rawness and fluidity, set him apart in the music industry. His famous music video for “Untitled (How Does It Feel)” showcased his talent and earned him a Grammy award. He continued to make waves with his sophomore album “Voodoo,” which topped the charts and won another Grammy.
Apart from his solo work, D’Angelo collaborated with other artists, such as Lauryn Hill and The Roots, leaving a lasting impact on the music scene. His musical partnership with Angie Stone, whom he considered his “musical soulmate,” resulted in memorable compositions and a son named Swayvo Twain.
Following a hiatus from the spotlight, D’Angelo made a triumphant comeback in 2014 with the album “Black Messiah,” which addressed social issues and received critical acclaim. Despite facing personal challenges, he remained a respected figure in the industry and influenced a new generation of musicians.
D’Angelo’s legacy extends beyond his chart-topping hits to his deep-rooted influence on artists like Maxwell, Alicia Keys, and Frank Ocean. His contribution to the music world will be remembered for years to come.