Remembering D’Angelo: A Soul Icon Whose Voice Changed R&B

The music world is mourning the loss of D’Angelo, the Grammy-winning R&B artist known for his raw emotion, velvety vocals, and the unforgettable impact of “Untitled (How Does It Feel).” He passed away at 51, following a private battle with cancer, his family confirmed.

Born Michael Eugene Archer, D’Angelo reshaped soul music in the late ’90s and early 2000s, blending gospel roots with neo-soul and sensual storytelling. With four Grammy Awards to his name and a spot on Billboard’s Top 100 Singers of All Time, he wasn’t just influential — he was transformational.

A Voice That Moved a Generation

While many remember the striking imagery of the “Untitled” video, it was D’Angelo’s vulnerability, honesty, and devotion to the craft that truly cemented his legacy. His albums Voodoo and Black Messiah are still hailed as masterpieces of modern soul.

Tributes from Fellow Artists

Across the industry, artists are sharing their heartbreak and gratitude.

Jennifer Hudson wrote:

“This really hurts! We lost a true original today. It just doesn’t seem real. D’Angelo, your voice will live on forever. Rest well, King!”

Others, including Jamie Foxx, Maxwell, Jill Scott, Flea, and Doja Cat, echoed similar feelings — remembering him as a visionary, a quiet soul, and a king of slow-burning emotion.

A Legacy of Depth and Soul

D’Angelo was famously private, often stepping away from the spotlight to protect his artistry and peace. But when he appeared, he shook the room. He didn’t chase trends. He created timeless soundscapes that made listeners close their eyes, feel deeply, and reflect.

His influence lives on in today’s R&B — in every whispered lyric, every falsetto, every song that aches.

💬 “He didn’t just sing—he confessed. And we all felt it.”