Ana Faguy and
Mark SavageMusic correspondent
Frans Schellekens/Redferns
Tributes Pour In for D’Angelo
Tributes have poured in for renowned R&B and soul artist D’Angelo, who passed away at 51 following a diagnosis of pancreatic cancer. His family stated that he left behind a “legacy of extraordinarily moving music” and encouraged fans to celebrate his musical contributions.
Pioneer of Neo-Soul
The influential artist was celebrated for pioneering the neo-soul genre, which fuses R&B with elements of hip-hop and jazz. Over his career, he released three albums that earned him four Grammy Awards, and his iconic music video for “Untitled (How Does It Feel)” gained notoriety for its striking single-shot performance.
Respected Among Peers
“The shining star of our family has dimmed his light for us in this life,” his family expressed in a statement. Fellow musicians such as Beyoncé, Nile Rogers, and Lauryn Hill have also shared their heartfelt tributes to the artist.
Personal Tributes
Beyoncé thanked D’Angelo for his impact on R&B, stating he was a pioneer whose work transformed the genre. Guitarist Nile Rogers recalled their first meeting and praised D’Angelo for his early music. Lauryn Hill reflected on D’Angelo’s unique talent and the unity he represented in Black manhood.
A Lasting Legacy
D’Angelo’s music career began as a songwriter, and he toured with significant names in the music industry. He gained fame in the 1990s with his debut album “Brown Sugar,” and his hit “Lady” earned several Grammy nominations and solidified his status in music.
Final Work and Influence
D’Angelo had been working on a fourth album before his untimely passing. His influence can be seen across generations, with reactions from artists like DJ Premier and others who mourned the loss of a visionary artist who shaped the sound of modern music.
