While exploring a career in the music industry, D’Angelo took his time when it came to releasing music. Throughout his time in the spotlight, he recorded three albums, with Black Messiah being his last in 2014. Although not following the format of recording a new album each year, he produced numerous hit songs and won a Grammy Award for Best R&B Album twice. Once for Voodoo and the second for Black Messiah. Although D’Angelo recently worked on a new album, he sadly passed away, causing his longtime friend, Tom Jones, to offer a touching tribute to the R&B icon.
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Having struggled with pancreatic cancer for some time, D’Angelo continued to work. According to his family, he remained passionate about music and planned to release a fourth album. But on October 14, the famed singer passed away at 51 years old.
With tributes continuing to pour in, Jones added his name to the list. Posting a heartfelt message on Instagram, he wrote, “Deeply saddened by the untimely passing of D’Angelo. I thank God for the time I spent with him and his band onstage, and feel them for real, it is forever a treasured memory.”
Aside from remembering his career, Jones touched on the type of person D’Angelo was. “His belief, courage and musical skills were singular and inspirational. He was a gentleman who was soul personified and he’ll be greatly missed. My sincere condolences to his family.”
Tom Jones Not The Only One Remembering The “Great Times”
As for D’Angelo’s family, they asked for privacy as they mourned his passing. In a statement, they wrote, “We are saddened that he can only leave dear memories with his family, but we are eternally grateful for the legacy of extraordinarily moving music he leaves behind.”
Among the others who offered tributes to D’Angelo was DJ Premier. Having worked together on the song “Devil’s Place”, he relied on the “great times” to bring him comfort. “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.”
As the world reflects on his unmistakable voice, D’Angelo’s legacy continues to live on through the timeless music that touched the souls of countless fans.
(Photo by Frank Micelotta/ImageDirect)
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