Beyoncé Reflects on D’Angelo’s Legacy and Impact
Beyoncé is joining millions of fans mourning the loss of the legendary D’Angelo. As reported earlier on Hollywood Unlocked, the Grammy-winning artist passed away on October 14, 2025, at the age of 51 following a private battle with pancreatic cancer.
On Wednesday morning, Beyoncé took to her official website to share a heartfelt message that read,
“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.”
She added,
“You were the pioneer of neo-soul and that changed and transformed rhythm & blues forever. We will never forget you.”
D’Angelo’s Timeless Influence on Music
D’Angelo, born Michael Eugene Archer, reshaped the sound of R&B in the ’90s and early 2000s. His 1995 debut album, Brown Sugar, introduced the world to a smoother, more intimate version of soul—melding jazz, funk, and hip-hop influences that would define the neo-soul movement.
Then came Voodoo in 2000, a masterpiece that earned him Grammy Awards and established his status as a visionary artist. Tracks like “Untitled (How Does It Feel)” became cultural landmarks—still referenced today for their raw emotion and groundbreaking production.
Artists like Beyoncé, Maxwell, Erykah Badu, and Alicia Keys have often credited D’Angelo as a creative force who inspired them to take risks and stay authentic to their sound. His blend of vulnerability and genius gave soul music its modern voice.
The Music Community Reacts to D’Angelo’s Passing
Since news of his death, tributes have poured in from across the music industry.
Social media platforms have flooded with fans sharing memories, videos, and lyrics that defined their love for neo-soul. His passing has also sparked renewed appreciation for his artistry, with streaming numbers for Brown Sugar and Voodoo reportedly skyrocketing overnight.
A Legacy That Will Live Forever
D’Angelo’s contribution to music wasn’t just about notes or lyrics—it was about soul. His sound was the soundtrack to love, loss, and Black expression.
As Beyoncé so powerfully said, his influence transformed R&B forever. And even though he’s gone, his legacy remains alive through every artist he inspired and every listener who felt his music.