D’Angelo, R&B Icon, Dies at 51

The artist’s family cited a prolonged and courageous battle with cancer. They shared a heartfelt statement with Variety to announce his passing.

D’Angelo’s Career Forged the Neo-Soul Movement

D’Angelo, born Michael D’Angelo Archer, released three seminal studio albums. His 1995 debut, Brown Sugar, catapulted neo-soul into the mainstream. He was only 21 years old at the time.

His 2000 follow-up, Voodoo, was a critical and commercial triumph. It masterfully blended R&B with deep funk influences. The album solidified his status as a musical innovator.

A Reclusive Genius With Enduring Influence

Despite long periods between releases, his influence never waned. His final album, Black Messiah, arrived in 2014 after a 14-year hiatus. According to The New York Times, its release was a major cultural event.

His work continues to inspire a generation of artists. The music remains a benchmark for quality and authenticity in the genre. His legacy is one of profound artistic integrity.

The music world has lost a true original with the passing of D’Angelo. His soulful sound and artistic fearlessness defined an era. D’Angelo’s legacy will undoubtedly continue to inspire for generations to come.

Thought you’d like to know

What was D’Angelo’s cause of death?

D’Angelo’s family confirmed he died after a prolonged battle with cancer. They shared the news in an official statement. He passed away at 51 years old.

What was D’Angelo’s most famous album?

His 2000 album *Voodoo* is widely considered his masterpiece. It is a landmark record in the neo-soul genre. The album achieved both critical acclaim and commercial success.

How many albums did D’Angelo release?

D’Angelo released three studio albums during his career. These are *Brown Sugar* (1995), *Voodoo* (2000), and *Black Messiah* (2014). Each one significantly shaped the R&B landscape.

What was D’Angelo’s last major release?

His last full album was 2014’s *Black Messiah*. His most recent single was “Unshaken” for the video game *Red Dead Redemption 2*. He made occasional guest appearances after that.

Why was there such a long gap between his albums?

D’Angelo was known for his reclusive nature and perfectionism. He took a 14-year break between *Voodoo* and *Black Messiah*. This allowed him to craft his music without industry pressure.