R&B and soul singer D’Angelo died Tuesday, leaving behind a “legacy of extraordinarily moving music” following a “long and courageous battle with cancer,” his family said.
The influential music star, whose real name was Michael D’Angelo Archer, was 51 years old.
“Our family’s shining star has dimmed his light for us in this life,” according to a family statement. “After a long 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 and leaves this life today.”
His loved ones said the artist’s music will live on.
“We are saddened that he can only leave cherished memories to his family, but we are eternally grateful for the legacy of extraordinarily moving music he leaves behind,” the family statement added.
“We ask that you respect our privacy during this difficult time, but we invite you all to join us in mourning his passing while celebrating the gift of song he left for the world.”
The singer came of age in the 1990s with his debut album “Brown Sugar.”
“Lady,” from that debut album, peaked at No. 10 in March 1996 and spent 20 weeks on Billboard’s Hot 100 chart.
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