D'Angelo, the R&B innovator, passed away at 51, leaving behind a legacy of three groundbreaking albums that defined neo-soul.
With his 1995 debut 'Brown Sugar', D'Angelo revolutionized R&B, combining the gravity and passion of soul legends like Al Green and Marvin Gaye with hip-hop beats and atmosphere.
His vocals, often layered in intricate harmonies, showcased a rich, seductive baritone and explosive falsetto.
He was a revelation in R&B, summoning the gravity and passion of soul forebearers like Al Green and Marvin Gaye and marrying it with the beats and slick atmosphere of hip-hop.
Tributes have been paid by music icons including Lauryn Hill, Missy Elliott, Black Thought, Flea, and Beyoncé.
Author's summary: D'Angelo passes away at 51, leaving a legacy in neo-soul music.