DâAngelo, the acclaimed R&B artist known for his unique 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, succumbed to cancer after a long battle, as confirmed by his family.
Renowned for blending hip-hop, soul, and gospel influences in his music, DâAngelo played a significant role in shaping the neo-soul movement of the 1990s. Earlier this year, he marked the 30th anniversary of his debut album Brown Sugar, which included hits like Lady and the title track, earning him multiple Grammy nominations and establishing him as a distinctive voice in the R&B scene.
DâAngelo’s soulful vocal style, characterized by a mix of grit and fluidity, set him apart in the industry. His 2000 single Untitled (How Does It Feel) and its minimalist, shirtless music video became iconic, sparking discussions about art, sexuality, and Black male representation. The song won him a Grammy and propelled his sophomore album Voodoo to the top of the charts.
Apart from his solo work, DâAngelo’s collaborations were also noteworthy. He collaborated with Lauryn Hill on the ballad Nothing Even Matters and contributed to The Roots’ album Illadelph Halflife and the supergroup Black Men United.
His life and music were closely intertwined with fellow R&B singer Angie Stone in the ’90s, with whom he co-wrote songs and had a son named Swayvo Twain. Stone passed away earlier this year in a car accident.
After a period of retreat from the public eye, DâAngelo made a triumphant return in 2014 with the album Black Messiah, which addressed political themes and received critical acclaim. Despite setbacks due to health issues, his impact on music and culture remains profound, influencing a new generation of artists.
DâAngelo’s legacy extends beyond his chart-topping hits, with songs like Me and Those Dreaminâ Eyes of Mine, Cruisin’, and Devilâs Pie resonating with fans. His influence on artists like Maxwell, Alicia Keys, and Frank Ocean cements his status as a musical pioneer.
The music industry mourns the loss of DâAngelo, a visionary artist whose soulful sound and artistic vision will continue to inspire generations to come.