Notable reaction to the death of R&B and neo-soul icon D'Angelo , who died Tuesday at 51.
“I remember hearing your music for the first time… I said to myself damn whoever this is they are anointed… Then when I finally got a chance to see you… Like everyone when they saw the most incredible music video of our time… I was blown away… I thought to myself I have to see this person in concert… I had my chance to see you at the house of blues… You came out
and got right down to business… Your voice was silky and flawless… I was graciously envious of your style and your swag…
That’s why today real tears run down my face … to hear the news that God has taken one of his special creations home… I know God doesn’t make mistakes… But this one hurts like hell… rest up my friend… you will be missed forever… But your music and your impression will be felt for generations to come…. REST IN POWER AND BEAUTIFUL MUSIC….. You are one of one….” — on Instagram.
“because u were , we are all because.” — the Grammy-Award winning R&B singer said on Instagram.
“I told you a long time ago — You ain’t gon understand everything & everything ain’t meant 4 U, nor I, to understand. I never met D’Angelo but I love him, respect him, admire his gift. This loss HURTS!! Love to my family that are family to him. I’m so sorry. R.I.P. GENIUS.” — on X.
“One of my all time favorites whose records I went to again and again. Noone did anything funkier over the last 30 years. I never knew him but humbled myself before his music. What a rare and beautiful voice and an inimitable approach to songwriting. What a musician!!! He changed the course of popular music. Fly free with the angels D’angelo, we will listen to you forever and always be moved. I drop to my knees and pray.” — the co-founder and bassist of the Red Hot Chili Peppers said on Instagram.
“Danggit! Say it ain’t so, but we just lost a friend, a creator & legend, D’Angelo! Prayer’s going out to his family & friends! We all lolve u lil-brother. R.I.P...” — the bassist, singer, and songwriter known for his work with James Brown and as a member of the Parliament-Funkadelic collective, on X.
“Rest in peace D’angelo. My thoughts, love and prayers go out to his family and friends. A true voice of soul and inspiration to many brilliant artists of our generation and generations to come.” — the singer, rapper and pop performer, on X.
“Omg! This is so sad! I knew he was fighting for some time too. But man, this is so sad. At great artist-Gone too soon. My sympathies to his loved ones and family. #RIP D’Angelo” — the actor, on X.
“Such a sad loss to the passing of D’angelo. We have so many great times. Gonna miss you so much. Sleep Peacefully D’. Love You KING.” — the legendary DJ and hip-hop producer, on X.
"I can’t think of a musician other than Prince that I revere more. He is one of the great players and bandleaders. I was always inspired by the fact that he also struggled. And we all knew that. We don’t get artists like this often. He really touched my life, and I was sure one day I’d get to see him play. I can’t believe he died so young. I’m very sad. I love that he grew into something new from his past life. — the acclaimed indie musician said on Instagram.
"I am sitting in this airport, in tears. The greatest soul musician, of a generation. Is gone. Michael Archer, I love you, man…. Rest in Power to The Great. D’Angelo…. I am broken….." — the record producer, on Instagram.
“We lost a GIANT today. The last time I shed tears for an artist when they transitioned was Prince… I shed some today. Rest In Eternal Power, Michael D’Angelo Archer.” — the R&B songwriter, on Instagram.
