In a heartbreaking sequence of events this year, the world of neo-soul lost two of its most cherished voices. Legendary singer-songwriter D’Angelo passed away on October 14, 2025, after a private battle with pancreatic cancer at the age of 51. Earlier this year, he faced another profound loss when his ex-girlfriend, Grammy-nominated R&B singer Angie Stone, tragically died in a car accident on March 1, 2025, near Montgomery, Alabama.

A source close to D’Angelo shared with PEOPLE that the loss of Stone was “devastating” for him. “He never arrived at her funeral service. He was extremely overwhelmed,” the source revealed. “Though they had both moved on with their lives romantically, the thought that both of them would be gone within the same year is profoundly sad. They were forever tied as this iconic pop culture couple.”

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D’Angelo and Angie Stone: A Neo-Soul Power Couple

D’Angelo, born Michael Eugene Archer, and Angie Stone shared a deep personal and professional bond that began in the 1990s. Together, they welcomed their son, Michael Jr., in 1998. Beyond their romantic relationship, they collaborated musically, contributing to the neo-soul movement that defined the late ’90s and early 2000s.

Stone toured with D’Angelo as a background vocalist during his Brown Sugar tour, and she also contributed to his debut album of the same name. The duo co-wrote the track “Everyday” for Stone’s 1999 debut album, Black Diamond. Reflecting on their relationship, Stone told GQ in 2014 that she immediately recognized D’Angelo as “a superstar on the rise”.

In a 2023 interview on VladTV, Stone addressed their 13-year age difference, stating: “He pursued me, I did not pursue him. I thought he was older than he was because he had an old soul… At the time, we were just the best of friends. As time grew, we ended up falling for each other. All I can tell you is s— happens.”

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The Tragic Loss of Angie Stone

Stone’s sudden death in a car accident sent shockwaves through the R&B and neo-soul communities. She was 63 at the time of her passing and left behind a rich legacy of soulful music that continues to inspire fans around the world.

D’Angelo’s grief over losing Stone was compounded by the knowledge that both he and his former partner would pass away in the same year, creating a poignant end to a chapter of neo-soul history.

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D’Angelo’s Illustrious Music Career

D’Angelo’s musical legacy spans decades and is marked by critical and commercial success. His debut album, Brown Sugar (1995), peaked at No. 4 on the U.S. Billboard Top R&B Albums chart and went platinum within a year of release.

His second album, Voodoo (2000), became a monumental success, topping both the U.S. Billboard Top R&B Albums chart and the U.S. Billboard 200 chart. It earned D’Angelo two Grammy Awards: Best R&B Album and Best Male R&B Vocal Performance. His third album, Black Messiah (2014), further cemented his status as a neo-soul icon, winning two more Grammys and showcasing his continued evolution as an artist.

D’Angelo’s music was renowned for its deeply soulful sound, impeccable musicianship, and emotional authenticity. Songs like Lady, Untitled (How Does It Feel), and Really Love remain cornerstones of the neo-soul genre.

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Remembering D’Angelo

Following his passing, D’Angelo’s family issued a statement:

“The shining star of our family has dimmed his light for us in this life… After a prolonged and courageous battle with cancer, we are heartbroken to announce that Michael D’Angelo Archer, known to his fans around the world as D’Angelo, has been called home, departing this life today, October 14th, 2025. We are saddened that he can only leave dear memories with his family, but 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 while also celebrating the gift of song that he has left for the world.”

D’Angelo and Angie Stone’s contributions to music remain timeless. Their stories remind fans of the power of love, artistry, and the enduring impact of neo-soul music on the world.