R&B singer D’Angelo dies at 51

Agencies New York

D’Angelo, the legendary R&B singer who helped pioneer the genre of music known as “neo-soul” and is known for such hits as “Lady,” “Brown Sugar” and “Untitled (How Does It Feel?),” died on Tuesday of cancer. He was 51.

The singer’s family confirmed his death in a statement to Variety. “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.”

D’Angelo released just three albums: his 1995 debut “Brown Sugar,” 2000’s “Voodoo” and his most recent, 2014’s “Black Messiah.” Yet he developed a vivid signature sound with “Brown Sugar,” He won four Grammy Awards and was a crucial figure in ushering the era of neo-soul.