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Grammy-winning singer D’Angelo, remembered for his Top 10 smash “Lady” from 1995, has died at the age of 51.
D’Angelo’s family confirmed that lost his battle with pancreatic cancer in New York City.
In a statement to Variety, they said, “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. 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.”
Another source told People magazine, “He was in hospice for two weeks but had been in the hospital for months.”
D’Angelo had kept his health status quiet.
After hearing the news, many stars took to social media to remember D’Angelo.
Doja Cat wrote on X, “Rest in peace D’angelo. My thoughts, love and prayers go out to his family and friends. A true voice of soul and inspiration to many brilliant artists of our generation and generations to come.”
Rapper Flavor Flav wrote on X, “R.I.P. ICON D’Angelo 🙏🏾🕊️.”
Jill Scott tweeted, “I told you a long time ago-You ain’t gon understand everything & everything ain’t meant 4 U ,nor I, to understand. I never met D’Angelo but I love him, respect him, admire his gift. This loss HURTS!! Love to my family that are family to him. I’m so sorry. R.I.P. GENIUS. 💔 💔.”
Rose Perez wrote on X, “Omg! This is so sad! I knew he was fighting for some time too. But man, this is so sad. At great artist-Gone too soon. My sympathies to his loved ones and family. #RIP D’Angelo💔.”
As recently as last year, it looked like D’Angelo was working on some new music.
Singer-songwriter Raphael Saadiq told Rolling Stone, “He’s excited… He’s working on six pieces right now and he seems super excited.”
Born February 11, 1974, in Richmond, Virginia, he became a major neo-soul star when his 1995 album “Brown Sugar” went platinum, staying on the Billboard 200 for more than a year.
He won four Grammys, including Best R&B Album for both “Voodoo” and “Black Messiah,” Best R&B Song for “Really Love,” and Best Male R&B Vocal Performance for his iconic song “Untitled (How Does It Feel).”
The 2000 music video for “Untitled (How Does It Feel)” featured D’Angelo going nude while singing the song in front of a black backdrop.
Earlier this year, his muse and former girlfriend Angie Stone also died. She was the only fatality when her tour van overturned and it was struck by a truck while she and other passengers were attempting to exit.
D’Angelo is survived by his three children.
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