The music world mourns the loss of neo-soul pioneer D’Angelo, who passed away at the age of 51 on Tuesday, October 14, following a battle with pancreatic cancer. Born Michael Eugene Archer, D’Angelo is being remembered as a trailblazer whose artistry transformed rhythm & blues and inspired generations of musicians.

Tributes from Music Icons

Following news of his passing, numerous fellow artists paid heartfelt tributes on social media. Beyoncé honored D’Angelo on her website, writing:

“Rest in peace, Michael Eugene Archer, known to the world of music as the inimitable D’Angelo. We thank you for your beautiful music, your voice, your proficiency on the piano, your artistry. You were the pioneer of neo-soul and that changed and transformed rhythm & blues forever. We will never forget you.”

Kelly Rowland, Beyoncé’s former Destiny’s Child bandmate, shared on X:

“This one hurts, DEEP! The way this man poured himself in the music! The stories I’ve heard of his brilliant process… I’m just speechless… He TRULY IS 1 of 1. Simply gutted by this loss! May God bless D’Angelo’s family and loved ones. We lost a GIANT.”

Jamie Foxx wrote a heartfelt tribute on Instagram:

“God put you here for a reason and we were all lucky enough to see what God had made. That’s why today real tears run down my face… I know God doesn’t make mistakes… But this one hurts like hell… Rest up my friend… You will be missed forever, but your music and your impression will be felt for generations to come. REST IN POWER AND BEAUTIFUL MUSIC… You are one of one.”

Missy Elliott also offered condolences to D’Angelo’s son, Michael Archer II, who tragically lost his mother, Angie Stone, in a car accident seven months ago.

“Rest Peacefully D’Angelo🙏🏾🕊️. No parent wants to see their children go, but it’s painful for children to see their parents go too. Sending prayers for his son for strength.”

Other notable tributes included Flea, bassist for Red Hot Chili Peppers, who wrote:

“No one did anything funkier over the last 30 years. What a rare and beautiful voice and an inimitable approach to songwriting. He changed the course of popular music.”

Doja Cat, Jennifer Hudson, Lauryn Hill, Jill Scott, Monica, and Nile Rodgers also shared emotional tributes, highlighting D’Angelo’s lasting impact on music and culture.

Remembering a Neo-Soul Pioneer

Michael Bearden, D’Angelo’s music director on his debut album, expressed how the late artist was a true innovator:

“D’s talent was so pure and natural he moved energy in a way that only geniuses could… D’Angelo was one of one. He created an entire genre of music just by being himself.”

D’Angelo’s groundbreaking work in neo-soul and R&B continues to influence artists worldwide. From his mesmerizing vocals to his artistry on the piano, he is remembered not only as a musician but as a cultural icon whose legacy will endure for generations.