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R&B legend D’Angelo has died at 51.
The “Brown Sugar” singer died Tuesday after battling cancer, according to his family.
“The shining star of our family has dimmed his light for us in this life… After a prolonged and courageous battle with cancer, we are heartbroken to announce that Michael D’Angelo Archer, known to his fans around the world as D’Angelo, has been called home, departing this life today, October 14th, 2025,” a statement provided to Fox News Digital read.
“We are saddened that he can only leave dear memories with his family, but we are eternally grateful for the legacy of extraordinarily moving music he leaves behind. We ask that you respect our privacy during this difficult time but invite you all join us in mourning his passing while also celebrating the gift of song that he has left for the world.”
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D’Angelo has died at 51 years old. (Rob Verhorst/Redferns)
A spokesperson for RCA Records told Fox News Digital, “We are deeply saddened by the passing of D’Angelo. He was a peerless visionary who effortlessly blended the classic sounds of soul, funk, gospel, R&B, and jazz with a hip-hop sensibility. A known perfectionist, D’Angelo released 3 albums that were widely celebrated as masterpieces by both the music community and his beloved fans around the world. He was heavily awarded and critically acclaimed for his talents.”
“D’Angelo’s songwriting, musicianship, and unmistakable vocal styling has endured and will continue to inspire generations of artists to come,” the statement continued. “Our hearts are with his family and friends during this difficult time.”
D’Angelo’s family said in a statement that they “are eternally grateful for the legacy of extraordinarily moving music he leaves behind.” (Earl Gibson III)
D’Angelo’s music helped shape the neo-soul movement of the 1990s. He was one of the first to merge a myriad of sounds, including soul, gospel, funk and hip hop.
Earlier this year, the Virginia native celebrated the 30th anniversary of his debut studio album “Brown Sugar,” the platinum-selling record that produced signature hits like “Lady” and the title track.
The 1995 album earned him multiple Grammy nominations and cemented him as one of R&B’s most original voices.
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D’Angelo never married, but had a long relationship with fellow musician Angie Stone. They welcomed a son, Michael D’Angelo Archer II, in 1998.
Stone died tragically in a car crash earlier this year. The R&B singer was 65.
D’Angelo also had a daughter, Imani Archer.
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D’Angelo won best R&B album at the Grammy Awards twice – once for “Voodoo” and again for “Black Messiah.” (Raymond Boyd/Getty Images)
Tributes to the musician poured in shortly after the news of his death.
“God put you here for a reason and we were all lucky enough to see what God had made… That’s why today real tears run down my face … to hear the news that God has taken one of his special creations home…” Jamie Foxx wrote on Instagram. “I know God doesn’t make mistakes… But this one hurts like hell… rest up my friend… you will be missed forever… But your music and your impression will be felt for generations to come…. REST IN POWER AND BEAUTIFUL MUSIC….. You are one of one….”
“Such a sad loss to the passing of D’Angelo,” DJ Premier, who worked on the song “Devil’s Pie,” shared. “We have so many great times. Gonna miss you so much. Sleep Peacefully D’ Love You KING.”
D’Angelo was battling cancer, according to his family. (Paul Bergen/Redferns)
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The Associated Press contributed to this report.
