D’Angelo dies aged 51 after “prolonged and courageous battle with cancer”

Neo-soul pioneer D’Angelo has died aged 51, his family have confirmed.

This afternoon (October 14), TMZ reported that the musician died this morning after privately living with pancreatic cancer.

In a statement to Variety, his family confirmed the news. They said: “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.”

Friends and peers have paid tribute on social media. DJ Premier, who produced his song ‘Devil’s Pie’, said, “Such a sad loss to the passing of D’Angelo. We have so many great times. Gonna miss you so much. Sleep Peacefully D’ Love You KING.”

Such a sad loss to the passing of D'angelo. We have so many great times. Gonna miss you so much. Sleep Peacefully D'
Love You KING 🫡🤍🕊️🙏🏾

— DJ Premier (@REALDJPREMIER) October 14, 2025

D’Angelo was born in Richmond, Virginia on February 11, 1974, and became interested in music as a child. He spent his teenage years playing in groups before signing to EMI in 1993 and wrote the song ‘U Will Know’ for the group Black Men United.

He came to prominence in 1995 when he released his debut album ‘Brown Sugar’, which was certified platinum in the US. His next album, 2000’s ‘Voodoo’, was acclaimed by critics and hit Number One, and saw him win his first two Grammy Awards. He then released his third album, ‘Black Messiah’, in 2014.

He is survived by his three children, sons Michael and Morocco and daughter Imani. His girlfriend, and Michael’s mother, soul singer Angie Stone, died in March aged 63.