R&B Legend D’Angelo Dies at 51 After Battle With Cancer

Grammy-winning R&B icon D’Angelo, known for his raspy yet soulful vocals and the unforgettable “Untitled (How Does It Feel)” music video, has died at 51. His family confirmed Tuesday that the singer, born Michael Eugene Archer, passed away after a battle with cancer. In a statement, they described him as “a shining star of our family” whose light “has dimmed for us in this life.”


A trailblazer of the 1990s neo-soul movement, the Virginia native rose to fame with his 1995 debut Brown Sugar, which earned platinum status and multiple Grammy nominations. His 2000 follow-up, Voodoo, topped the Billboard 200 and won the Grammy for Best R&B Album, with “Untitled (How Does It Feel)” earning Best Male R&B Vocal Performance. The song’s minimalist, intimate video became a cultural touchstone, sparking conversations about artistry, sensuality, and Black male vulnerability.


Beyond his solo success, D’Angelo’s influence extended through collaborations with Lauryn Hill on “Nothing Even Matters” and contributions to The Roots’ Illadelph Halflife. He also co-wrote “U Will Know” for the film Jason’s Lyric as part of Black Men United. D’Angelo shared a son, artist Swayvo Twain, with late R&B singer Angie Stone, his former partner and creative collaborator, who called him her “musical soul mate.” He is also survived by his daughter, Imani Archer.



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