D’Angelo, Grammy-Winning R&B Icon, Dies at 51 After Cancer Battle
Grammy-winning R&B and soul singer D’Angelo has died at the age of 51 following a prolonged battle with pancreatic cancer. The acclaimed artist, whose real name was Michael D’Angelo Archer, passed away Tuesday morning in New York City, according to sources close to his family and former manager Kedar Massenburg.
D’Angelo’s family released a statement following his passing: “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 to join us in mourning his passing while also celebrating the gift of song that he has left for the world.”
D’Angelo rose to prominence in 1995 with his debut album “Brown Sugar,” which helped redefine modern R&B and soul. He went on to collaborate with notable artists such as Jay-Z, Snoop Dogg, and Q-Tip, cementing his reputation as a singular talent in the industry.
His artistry was recognized with four Grammy Awards, including Best R&B Album for “Voodoo” in 2001 and “Black Messiah” in 2016, as well as Best R&B Song for “Really Love” and Best Male R&B Vocal Performance for “Untitled (How Does It Feel).” The video for “Untitled (How Does It Feel)” became iconic, featuring D’Angelo alone against a black background, leaving a lasting impression on music and pop culture.
In recent years, D’Angelo was reportedly working on new material. Raphael Saadiq shared on the “Rolling Stone Music Now” podcast that D’Angelo was “excited” and working on six new pieces.
D’Angelo is survived by two sons and a daughter. The mother of his first son, singer Angie Stone, died earlier this year in a car accident.
D’Angelo was 51. His legacy continues through the music he created and the influence he had on generations of artists and fans.