R&B icon D’Angelo has passed away at the age of 51 following a private battle with pancreatic cancer, a source has confirmed. The renowned artist, known for his influential neo-soul sound and hits such as “Brown Sugar” and “Lady,” was reported by TMZ to have been in hospice care for the last two weeks and had spent months in the hospital prior to his death.
Born Michael Eugene Archer in Richmond, Virginia, D’Angelo exhibited musical talent from an early age, starting piano lessons at just three years old. By five, he was already performing with his father at a local Pentecostal church. As he grew older, he developed his craft, forming groups like Three of a Kind and Michael Archer and Precise.
D’Angelo first gained widespread recognition after winning Amateur Night at the Apollo in 1992, which led to the recording of his debut album, “Brown Sugar,” released in 1995. The album, which peaked at No. 4 on the U.S. Billboard Top R&B Albums chart, achieved platinum status within a year and garnered D’Angelo four Grammy nominations.
In 2000, he followed up with his sophomore album “Voodoo,” which debuted at No. 1 on both the U.S. Billboard Top R&B Albums chart and the Billboard 200, winning a Grammy for Best R&B Album. His track “Untitled (How Does It Feel)” also received accolades for Best Male R&B Vocal Performance. Despite his commercial success, D’Angelo faced personal challenges, including struggles with substance abuse and legal issues.
After a long hiatus, he released his third studio album, “Black Messiah,” in 2014. This album was hailed as a modern neo-soul classic, achieving No. 1 on several Billboard charts and won another Grammy for Best R&B Album. Throughout his career, D’Angelo collaborated with notable artists like Questlove, Common, and Lauryn Hill, enriching the music landscape with his unique style.
Most recently, D’Angelo worked with Jay-Z on the track “I Want You Forever” for the “The Book of Clarence” soundtrack and was reported to be crafting new music, showcasing his enduring passion for artistry.
DJ Premier, a longtime collaborator, expressed his sorrow in a tribute on social media, mourning the loss of a cherished friend and a remarkable talent.
D’Angelo’s legacy as a pioneer in neo-soul music and his profound influence on R&B will continue to resonate, inspiring future generations of artists and fans alike.