**Published Oct 14, 2025 • Last updated 14 minutes ago • 2-minute read**
Join the conversation
D’Angelo, the Grammy-winning R&B artist known for his distinctive raspy yet smooth voice and the iconic shirtless music video for “Untitled (How Does It Feel),” has passed away at the age of 51.
The singer, born Michael Eugene Archer, died on Tuesday, as confirmed by a statement from his family. They revealed that he succumbed to a long battle with cancer, describing him as “a shining star of our family” whose light has dimmed, while expressing their “eternal gratitude for the legacy of extraordinarily moving music he leaves behind.”
D’Angelo was a pivotal figure in the neo-soul movement of the 1990s, blending hip-hop grit, soulful emotion, and gospel influences into his music. Earlier this year, he marked the 30th anniversary of his debut album, “Brown Sugar,” which achieved platinum status and featured hits like “Lady” and the title track. This album earned him multiple Grammy nominations and established him as one of R&B’s most innovative voices.
His sultry vocal style, characterized by a unique raspy texture and fluidity rooted in gospel, distinguished him from his contemporaries. This signature sound became synonymous with the striking visuals of his 2000 hit “Untitled (How Does It Feel),” a minimalist, shirtless music video that sparked discussions about artistry, sexuality, and vulnerability in Black male representation. The song won him a Grammy for Best Male R&B Vocal Performance and propelled his second album, “Voodoo,” to the top of the Billboard 200, where it also won the Grammy for Best R&B Album.
In addition to his solo work, D’Angelo’s artistry shone through in collaborations, including a memorable duet with Lauryn Hill on the soulful ballad “Nothing Even Matters,” a standout track from her acclaimed 1998 album, “The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill.” He also contributed to The Roots’ 1996 work, further solidifying his impact on the music industry.