DâAngelo, the acclaimed R&B singer known for his distinctive raspy yet velvety vocals and famous for the iconic shirtless music video Untitled (How Does It Feel), has passed away at the age of 51. The artist, born Michael Eugene Archer, succumbed on Tuesday after a long battle with cancer, as confirmed by his family.
Described as a shining star within his family, DâAngelo’s passing has left a void, with his family expressing eternal gratitude for the exceptional musical legacy he leaves behind. Renowned for blending hip-hop edginess, soulful fervor, and gospel-infused emotion, his music played a pivotal role in shaping the neo-soul movement of the 1990s.
Earlier this year, the Virginia native commemorated the 30th anniversary of his debut album Brown Sugar, a platinum-selling record featuring hits like Lady and the titular track. This album, released in 1995, garnered numerous Grammy nominations, solidifying DâAngelo as a pioneering voice in R&B.
DâAngelo’s distinctive vocal style, characterized by a blend of rough texture and soulful fluidity, set him apart in the music industry. His 2000 single Untitled (How Does It Feel) and its minimalist, shirtless music video became a cultural phenomenon, sparking discussions on artistry, sexuality, and vulnerability in Black male representation.
Aside from his solo work, DâAngelo’s collaborative endeavors were equally noteworthy. He notably collaborated with Lauryn Hill on the soulful ballad Nothing Even Matters and contributed to The Roots’ album Illadelph Halflife. Additionally, his involvement in the supergroup Black Men United resulted in the creation of the song U Will Know for the film Jason’s Lyric in 1994.
Before retreating from the public eye, DâAngelo shared a close musical bond with Angie Stone, with whom he worked on Brown Sugar and co-wrote the track Everyday. Stone referred to DâAngelo as her “musical soulmate,” emphasizing the magical synergy they shared musically.
DâAngelo made a remarkable comeback in 2014 with Black Messiah, a politically charged album that resonated with the socio-political climate, earning him critical acclaim and a Grammy award. His influence extended beyond music charts, inspiring a new generation of artists like Maxwell, Alicia Keys, and Frank Ocean.
Despite his significant impact on the music industry, DâAngelo’s life was marked by periods of absence, leading to speculation about personal challenges and creative hurdles. His unexpected departure from the 2025 Roots Picnic due to health reasons further underscored his enigmatic persona and enduring legacy in music.
