Legendary neo-soul artist D’Angelo has died following a private battle with pancreatic cancer. He was 51.
Known for hits like “Brown Sugar,” “Lady,” and “Cruisin’,” D’Angelo died Tuesday, Oct. 14, 2025, Variety confirmed, citing members of his family.
“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,” the singer’s family wrote in a statement sent to Variety.
“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,” the statement continued.
D’Angelo was born Feb. 11, 1974 in Richmond, Virginia. He released three studio albums throughout his career: “Brown Sugar” (1995), “Voodoo” (2000), and “Black Messiah” (2014). D’Angelo won four Grammy Awards out of 14 career nominations. He most recently won best R&B album for “Black Messiah” and best R&B song for “Really Love” in 2016.
The R&B icon, who was supposed to perform his first full live show in nine years at Roots Picnic in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania earlier this year, had to pull out because of health issues.
“Due to an unforeseen medical delay regarding surgery (I) had earlier this year, (I’ve) been advised by my team of specialists that the performance this weekend could further complicate matters,” D’Angelo wrote in an Instagram post on May 23.
“It is nearly impossible to express how disappointed [I am] not to be able to play with my Brothers ‘The Roots.’ And even more disappointed to not see all of you,” he wrote.
D’Angelo ended the post by thanking fans for their support, adding that he is “in the lab” and “can’t wait to serve up what’s in the pot.”
Roots Picnic, which shared the Instagram post, wrote that “we’re sending love and keeping him in our thoughts as he continues to heal!”
D’Angelo’s family told Variety they “are eternally grateful for the legacy of extraordinarily moving music he leaves behind.”
The family asks that their privacy be respected “during this difficult time,” but invites fans to join “in mourning his passing while also celebrating the gift of song that he has left for the world.”
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