Tributes are pouring in for R&B icon D’Angelo after his family announced the singer's tragic passing on Tuesday. Stars including Tyler, The Creator, Doja Cat, Nile Rodgers, Flea, and Missy Elliott have all paid heartfelt homage to the late legend. Renowned as one of the most influential artists in R&B and a pioneering force in the neo-soul movement of the 1990s, D’Angelo passed away on Tuesday following a valiant battle with cancer.
"We are deeply saddened that he leaves behind only cherished memories for his family, yet eternally grateful for the extraordinary and moving musical legacy he bestows upon the world," D’Angelo’s family said in a poignant statement on Tuesday.
Tyler, The Creator took to Instagram to share an extensive and emotional tribute, recalling how he purchased D’Angelo’s album *Voodoo* for his ninth birthday, noting that *Brown Sugar* had already become a staple in his household. "I couldn’t fathom how someone could craft something so simple yet profoundly personal, universally relatable, and undeniably genius," Tyler wrote. "That’s what made him special—a savant, a true visionary. I feel incredibly fortunate to have secured my copy of *VOODOO* when I did. We are all blessed to have lived during a time when we could savor his art. My musical essence was profoundly shaped by this man. Forever grateful. Safe travels."
Doja Cat expressed her admiration on X (formerly Twitter), describing D’Angelo as "a true soulful voice and an inspiration to countless brilliant artists of our generation and those to come."
Flea of the Red Hot Chili Peppers hailed D’Angelo as "one of my all-time favorites" in an Instagram post. "No one has delivered anything funkier in the past 30 years," Flea remarked. "I never had the privilege of knowing him personally, but I stand in awe before his music. What an incredibly rare and beautiful voice, coupled with an unparalleled approach to songwriting. What a musician!!! He altered the trajectory of popular music. May you soar freely with the angels, D’Angelo. We will forever listen to your music and be moved by it. I drop to my knees in prayer."
Missy Elliott urged fans to send their prayers to D’Angelo’s son, who also experienced the loss of his mother, Angie Stone, earlier this year.
Nile Rodgers shared a touching tribute on Instagram Tuesday, reminiscing about the early days when record executive Gary Harris—who signed D’Angelo—brought him to Rodgers’ New York apartment to showcase the music. "He was trying to decide what to do with the tracks he’d brought," Rodgers recalled. "I listened to every single cut, not just out of respect but because it was absolutely scorching. At the end of our meeting, he asked me, 'What should I do with this?' I remember it as if it were yesterday. I replied, 'Release it. It’s perfect!' Being the artist he was, I suppose he felt compelled to explore ways to refine it further. About a year later, I heard one of those songs on the radio. It was genius, and it was precisely what he had played for me. I know... I still possess the original cassette."
