From Obama to Beyoncé, stars remember D’Angelo with emotional tributes

The death of singer D’Angelo, born michael archer, It came as a shock to many, and now, notable figures from various walks of life are paying tribute.

In a post on

“D’Angelo was one of a kind,” Obama wrote. “As a pioneer of neo-soul, he inspired a generation of singers and helped shape today’s music. Michelle and I are thinking of his family and all those who loved and admired him.”

James Devaney/WireImage

Beyoncé Knowles-Carter, who rose to fame with girl group Destiny’s Child before launching her solo career, also paid tribute on her website.

“Rest in peace, Michael Eugene Archer, known in the music world as the inimitable D’Angelo. We thank you for your beautiful music, your voice, your mastery of the piano, and your artistry,” his website said. “You were the pioneer of neo-soul and that changed and transformed Rhythm & Blues forever.”

Bey’s former bandmate Kelly Rowland also expressed her sadness over D’Angelo’s death.

“This hurts, DEEP!” Rowland wrote on X, formerly Twitter. “The way this man dedicated himself to music! The stories I’ve heard about his brilliant process… I’m just speechless. He REALLY IS 1 of 1. Just devastated by this loss!”

The world “lost a GIANT,” he concluded.

Although D’Angelo never collaborated musically with rapper Missy Elliot, the two moved in the same creative circles and she also shared a tribute on X.

“Rest in peace D’Angelo,” Elliot wrote. “No parent wants their children to leave, but it is painful for children to see their parents leave, so please send prayers for your child, who also lost his mother this year, to regain strength.”

The “4 My People” artist was referring to D’Angelo’s son, Michael Archer Jr., who also lost his mother, musician Angie Stone, earlier this year.

STAN HONDA via Getty Images

“I’m sorry I didn’t have more time with you,” singer Lauryn Hill wrote on Instagram. “Your undeniable beauty and talent were not of this world, and a presence that is not of this world needs protection in a world that covets the light and anointing of God.”

Later in his caption, Hill called D’Angelo a “beacon of light for a generation.”

Jamie Newsx echoed the idea that the late musician was anointed.

“I remember hearing your music for the first time. I was like, damn whoever this is, they’re anointed,” the actor wrote in an Instagram post. “Then when I finally got the chance to see you. Like everyone else when they see the most incredible music video of our time, I was blown away.”

Singer John Legend described himself as “heartbroken” by the death, while singer Jennifer Hudson said D’Angelo’s voice “will live on forever.”

D’Angelo, 51, died Tuesday from pancreatic cancer.