D’Angelo, the influential R&B artist renowned for his role in the neo-soul movement, has passed away at the age of 51. His family confirmed that he died on October 14, 2025, following a prolonged battle with pancreatic cancer. Born Michael Eugene Archer on February 11, 1974, in Richmond, Virginia, D’Angelo rose to prominence in the mid-1990s. His debut album, Brown Sugar (1995), was pivotal in shaping the neo-soul genre, blending elements of soul, funk, and hip-hop. The album received critical acclaim and commercial success, earning him multiple Grammy nominations.

In 2000, D’Angelo released Voodoo, which debuted at number one on the Billboard 200 and won several Grammy Awards, including Best R&B Album. The album's lead single, “Untitled (How Does It Feel),” became iconic, further cementing his status in the music industry.

After a period of limited public appearances, D’Angelo returned in 2014 with Black Messiah, an album that addressed contemporary social issues and received widespread critical acclaim.

Throughout his career, D’Angelo collaborated with numerous artists, including Lauryn Hill, Erykah Badu, and Questlove, and was a member of the Soulquarians collective. His music continues to influence artists across various genres.

D’Angelo is survived by his three children. His family has requested privacy during this time and expressed gratitude for the enduring legacy of his music.

Sources: AP News, The Guardian, People, Pitchfork, Variety