D’Angelo, Grammy-Winning R&B Legend, Dies at 51 After Cancer Battle

Michael D’Angelo Archer, better known as D’Angelo, the Grammy-winning R&B and soul artist, has passed away at 51 following a private struggle with pancreatic cancer, TMZ reports.

The singer’s family confirmed the heartbreaking news in a statement to The Post:

"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."

They added, "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 while joining us in mourning his passing and celebrating the gift of song he has shared with the world."

A Peerless Musical Visionary

RCA Records also paid tribute, calling D’Angelo a “peerless visionary who effortlessly blended the classic sounds of soul, funk, gospel, R&B, and jazz with a hip-hop sensibility.”

The label highlighted his meticulous artistry and lasting impact: “D’Angelo released three albums celebrated as masterpieces by both the music community and his fans. His songwriting, musicianship, and unmistakable vocal style will continue to inspire generations of artists.”

Early Life and Rise to Fame

Born Michael Eugene Archer on February 11, 1974, in Richmond, Virginia, D’Angelo learned piano at a young age and played at his grandfather’s Pentecostal church. He later formed a group with his cousins called Three of a Kind, performing at local talent shows.

He first made waves in the music industry by co-producing the 1994 single “U Will Know” by Black Men United.

In July 1995, he released his debut album, Brown Sugar, which reached No. 6 on the U.S. Billboard Top R&B Albums chart. The album, featuring hits like “Brown Sugar,” “Cruisin,” and “Lady,” stayed on the Billboard 200 for 65 weeks.

His sophomore album, Voodoo (2000), debuted at No. 1 on the Billboard 200. Voodoo won the Grammy for Best R&B Album, and the single “Untitled (How Does It Feel)” earned King D’Angelo the Grammy for Best Male R&B Vocal Performance in 2001.

He released his third album, Black Messiah, in 2014, earning two more Grammys with its lead single, “Really Love.”

Struggles and Triumphs

D’Angelo openly battled alcoholism and drug abuse and navigated the pressures of being a celebrated sex symbol—a journey documented in the 2019 film Devil’s Pie by Carine Bijlsma.

He also appeared in Questlove’s 2025 documentary Sly Lives!, reflecting on the pressures of fame and the “guilt” of success. Questlove said in Variety:

"The origin of his personal story is literally being a chosen one … and yet he was chosen. Guilt is probably the No. 1 emotion."

Despite challenges, D’Angelo continued to pursue his music. Last year, Questlove revealed to Rolling Stone that D’Angelo was preparing a fourth album, exploring bold new directions inspired by artists such as Bowie, Zeppelin, the Beatles, and Zappa.

"He is about to take a radical 180 turn with this record," Questlove said. “It’s going to throw people off the same way Prince’s Dirty Mind did.”

D’Angelo’s Legacy

D’Angelo leaves behind a legacy defined by soulful vocals, musical innovation, and a deep emotional connection with fans worldwide. His influence will continue to shape R&B, soul, and music culture for generations.

"Rest in peace, D’Angelo," RCA Records added. “Your music will live on forever.”