D’Angelo dies at 51 after pancreatic cancer battle
Grammy-winning singer D’Angelo, born Michael Eugene Archer, has died at age 51 following a private battle with pancreatic cancer. His family announced his passing on October 14, 2025, calling it a heartbreaking moment as they grieve a deeply influential musical voice.
According to reports, D’Angelo had been hospitalized for months and was in hospice care for the last two weeks of his life. His illness had not been publicly disclosed until now, making his battle largely private.
D’Angelo rose to prominence with his 1995 debut Brown Sugar, which helped define the neo-soul genre. His follow-up Voodoo in 2000 brought him mainstream acclaim and Grammy Awards. After years away from the spotlight, he made a powerful return in 2014 with Black Messiah, an album that solidified his status as a musical innovator.
Tributes have poured in from fellow artists, fans, and industry peers. Many have expressed sorrow over the loss of a voice that blended emotional depth, musical experimentation, and soulful authenticity. His influence extended across R&B, soul, hip-hop, and modern music’s evolving soundscapes.
He leaves behind three children, and his family asked for privacy during this time of grief. They encouraged those who loved his music to reflect on the gift he left behind.
