koransakti.co.id – The music world is in mourning following the shocking news that D’Angelo, the enigmatic and immensely influential neo-soul icon, has died at the age of 51. His family confirmed that the Grammy-winning artist, born Michael D’Angelo Archer, passed away on Tuesday, October 14, 2025, after a private battle with pancreatic cancer.
A source close to the situation confirmed to PEOPLE that the singer had been in hospice care for two weeks prior to his death.
Family Confirms “Courageous Battle”
In a heartfelt statement, D’Angelo’s family broke their silence on his passing, paying tribute to his life and legacy.
“The shining star of our family has dimmed his light for us in this life,” the statement read. “After a prolonged and courageous battle with cancer, we are heartbroken to announce that Michael D’Angelo Archer… has been called home.”
The family expressed their gratitude for his musical gift to the world, stating, “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.”
A Look Back at a Legendary Career
A native of Richmond, Virginia, D’Angelo skyrocketed to fame in 1995 with his debut album, Brown Sugar. He cemented his legacy five years later with the culture-defining masterpiece, Voodoo (2000), which featured the iconic hit “Untitled (How Does It Feel).” After a 14-year hiatus, he returned triumphantly with his third album, Black Messiah (2014), earning critical acclaim and another Grammy.
The Private Struggles Behind the Genius
Behind his undeniable genius, however, lay a complex personal struggle. D’Angelo was known to have issues with substance abuse, which contributed to his long periods away from the public eye.
A source also revealed his internal conflict with the “sex symbol” status that was thrust upon him, particularly after the provocative music video for “Untitled” and the chiseled physique he displayed on the Voodoo album cover.
“He never was comfortable being a sex symbol,” the source told PEOPLE, adding that in his later years, he became a recluse. “He was always really conflicted.”
D’Angelo is survived by his three children. His death comes just seven months after the passing of his former partner and collaborator, Angie Stone.
