The music world is grieving the loss of soul icon D’Angelo, who died Tuesday at age 51 after battling pancreatic cancer. Known for his groundbreaking blend of soul, funk, rock, and R&B, the multi-instrumentalist and Grammy-winning singer left a lasting legacy with influential albums such as 1995’s Brown Sugar and 2000’s Voodoo. Jamie Foxx tribute D’Angelo messages, alongside those from other notable artists, have flooded social media, highlighting the profound impact of his artistry.
Tributes from Fellow Musicians Highlight D’Angelo’s Influence
D’Angelo’s peers and collaborators expressed deep sorrow and admiration following the news of his passing. Lauryn Hill, who worked with him on the acclaimed song Nothing Really Matters from her 1998 album The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill, posted on X her regrets over lost time with him. She wrote,
“I regret not having more time with you,”
and added,
“Your undeniable beauty and talent were not of this world, and a presence not of this world needs protection in a world that covets light and the anointing of God. You sir, moved us, stirred us, inspired and even intimidated others to action with your genius. Thank you for being a beacon of light to a generation and beyond who had no remembrance of the legacy that preceded us.”
Lauryn Hill
Jill Scott, another influential artist who helped shape the neo-soul movement alongside D’Angelo, shared her emotional response on X despite never having met him personally:
“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.”
Jill Scott
Nile Rodgers, famed guitarist, producer, and co-founder of Chic, recalled their meeting when D’Angelo sought advice on fresh material. Rodgers wrote,
“I listened to every cut… not just out of respect but because it was smoking,”
and remembered telling D’Angelo, “Put it out. It’s perfect!” Nile Rodgers
Destiny’s Child Members and Beyoncé Share Their Grief
Two members of the iconic group Destiny’s Child also voiced their sorrow for the artist, born Michael Eugene Archer. Kelly Rowland posted on Instagram,
“This one hurts, DEEP! The way this man, poured himself in the music! The stories I’ve heard of his brilliant process… I’m just speechless… He TRULY IS 1 of 1. Simply gutted by this loss!”
Kelly Rowland
Tina Knowles, mother of Beyoncé and a respected figure closely tied to the group, added, “Such a great loss.” Beyoncé paid tribute by dedicating the homepage of her official website to D’Angelo, featuring a photo of him mid-performance along with these words:
“Rest in peace… We thank you for your beautiful music, your voice, your proficiency on the piano, your artistry. You were the pioneer of neo-soul and that changed and transformed rhythm and blues forever. We will never forget you.”
Beyoncé
Jamie Foxx’s Emotional Message Resonates with Fans
Among many tributes, Jamie Foxx’s statement on Instagram struck a powerful chord with his 17 million followers. The Oscar-winning actor and musician recalled the first time he encountered D’Angelo’s music:
“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,”
Jamie Foxx stated.
Foxx continued with heartfelt sorrow, saying,
“God put you here for a reason and we were all lucky enough to see what God had made… 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.”
Jamie Foxx
Additional Tributes Reflect Wide-Ranging Impact of D’Angelo’s Artistry
Other well-known musicians including Maxwell, Tyler, the Creator, and Jennifer Hudson also publicly mourned the loss of D’Angelo on social media. The breadth of responses illustrates how his music transcended generations and genres, influencing countless artists and fans. As a pioneer of neo-soul, D’Angelo’s innovative sound and emotive performances redefined rhythm and blues, inspiring artists to blend raw soul with modern sensibilities.
Legacy and Continuing Influence in Music
D’Angelo’s death marks a significant moment for the music community, underscoring the fragility of life and the enduring power of artistic expression. His unique fusion of styles pushed boundaries and opened doors for the neo-soul genre to flourish. The heartfelt tributes from Jamie Foxx, Lauryn Hill, Beyoncé, and many others highlight not only the personal loss felt but also the void left in contemporary music. In the coming days, as retrospectives and celebrations of his work increase, his influence will continue to resonate with fans and artists alike.
People need reflection.
I regret not having more time with you. Your undeniable beauty and talent were not of this world, and a presence not of this world needs protection in a world that covets light and the anointing of God. You sir, moved us, stirred us, inspired and even… pic.twitter.com/sx7pepWBZB
— Ms. Lauryn Hill (@MsLaurynHill) October 14, 2025
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. 💔 💔
— ⭐Jill Scott⭐ (@missjillscott) October 14, 2025
My friend Gary Harris brought this musician named D'Angelo over to my NYC apt. He was trying to figure out what to do with the music he'd brought with him. I listened to every cut…not just out of respect but because it was smoking. At the end of the encounter he asked me, "What… pic.twitter.com/4KjOKLswP9
— Nile Rodgers (@nilerodgers) October 14, 2025
