Grammy winner and R&B soul legend D’Angelo has died at the age of 51 after a private battle with cancer.
It was reported on Tuesday
News of D’Angelo’s death was first reported by TMZ, who said he passed away in New York City on Tuesday, October 14. The music icon’s family also confirmed the news on the same day.
D’Angelo, born Michael Eugene Archer, died aged 51.
He was battling with cancer
The Brown Sugar hitmaker was privately battling pancreatic cancer prior to his death, according to People.
“He was in hospice for two weeks but had been in the hospital for months,” a source told the outlet.
His family released a statement
D’Angelo’s family released a statement to The Post where they confirmed he passed.
They said of the The Lady singer who was regarded as a pioneer in neo-soul music, “The shining star of our family has dimmed his light for us in this life.”
They confirmed he was battling with cancer
“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,” the family’s statement read.
The family believed in his art
“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,” D’Angelo’s family said.
“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.”
His recording company also spoke about his legacy
RCA Records, the record label D’Angelo was signed to, also released a statement about the legacy he has left behind.
They said, per The Post, “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.”
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D’Angelo’s music was widely celebrated
“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,” the company went on.
“He was heavily awarded and critically acclaimed for his talents.”
He inspired a generation of artist in the genre
The record label added, “D’Angelo’s songwriting, musicianship, and unmistakable vocal styling has endured and will continue to inspire generations of artists to come.”
“Our hearts are with his family and friends during this difficult time.”
