Lauryn Hill, Beyoncé, Jill Scott, Jamie Foxx, and more react to D’Angelo’s passing: ‘Your voice will live on forever’

D’Angelo’s peers in the music industry react after R&B legend D’Angelo died at the age of 51 of pancreatic cancer.

As the world continues to mourn the death of R&B legend D’Angelo, many of his peers in music have begun to react. 

On Tuesday, news broke that R&B legend D’Angelo (born Michael Eugene Archer) died at the age of 51 of pancreatic cancer. Since then, tributes from musicians and artists in the music industry have been pouring in. 

In a heartfelt tribute on her website, Beyoncé wrote, “Rest in peace, Michael Eugene Archer, known to the world of music as the inimitable D’Angelo. 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 & blues forever,” the “Halo” singer continued. “We will never forget you.”

Meanwhile, Kelly Rowland wrote in a post on X, “This one hurts, DEEP! The way this man, poured himself in the music! The stories I’ve heard of his brilliant process…….im just speechless……”

“He TRULY IS 1 of 1. Simply gutted by this loss!” she added. “May God Bless D’Angelo’s family and loved Ones. We lost a GIANT.”

Missy Elliott included thoughts and prayers for D’Angelo’s son, Michael Archer II, whom he shared with Angie Stone, who died earlier this year in a car accident.  

“Rest Peacefully D’Angelo,” the “Work It” singer wrote on X. “No parent want to see their children go but it’s painful for children to see their parents go…so send prayers up for his son who also lost his mom this year for strength.”

Jill Scott revealed in a post on X that she was aware of D’Angelo’s illness and had just sent him some love the day before. 

“I didn’t know he was leaving us TODAY. Oooooooh my condolences to his family, his musical fam and fans. I am a fan and I mourn. D. Keaton & now D’Angelo. Hurts”

In another post, she added, “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.”

Hailed as one of neo-soul’s most iconic figures, D’Angelo rose to prominence in the mid-’90s with his sultry blend of gospel, funk, soul, and R&B that helped define a generation. With landmark albums like “Brown Sugar,” “Voodoo,” and “Black Messiah,” he reimagined soul music for a new era, earning Grammy Awards and critical acclaim. Reflecting in a lengthy post on Instagram, Lauryn Hill credited him for the way he inspired others. 

 “I regret not having more time with you,” she began, noting that his “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,” she continued. “Thank you for being a beacon of light to a generation and beyond who had no remembrance of the legacy that preceded us.”

She noted how he envisioned a “unity of strength and sensitivity” in Black manhood for a generation of men forced to choose between the two.

“It is my earnest prayer that you are in peace, far away from selfishness, fear and/or controlling interests,” she continued. 

Others who have paid tribute include Jamie Foxx who praised him for his output and spirit in a lengthy post on Instagram. 

“God put you here for a reason and we were all lucky enough to see what God had made,” he wrote in the caption. “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….”

In a post on X, Doja Cat said he was “A true voice of soul and inspiration to many brilliant artists of our generation and generations to come.”

On the same platform, Jennifer Hudson wrote, “This really hurts ! We lost a true original today.”

“It just doesn’t seem real!! It can’t be,” she continued. “D’Angelo, your voice will live on forever. Rest well, King !!!!”