BY: Jasmine Franklin
Published 24 hours ago
Singer Elton John is mourning the loss of Grammy-winning R&B star D’Angelo. He called it a “sad day for the music industry.” The British icon shared a moving tribute on social media after learning of the soul legend’s passing. D’Angelo was known for his rich sound and emotional depth. His music inspired generations of artists and fans. John’s message reflected the sadness felt throughout the music world, especially in the Neo Soul category. It captured the love, respect, and admiration shared by those touched by D’Angelo’s artistry and influence.
Elton John, A Lifelong Fan
Few may realize how deeply D’Angelo’s music resonated with John. The “Rocket Man” singer often spoke about his admiration for artists who blur the lines between genres, and D’Angelo stood among his favorites. In a heartfelt post, John called D’Angelo the “inventor of Neo Soul” and “perfection.”
Elton John's post abiut D'Angelo pic.twitter.com/QrAKF0NjSN
— Polly (@pollygarcia0915) October 15, 2025
“So sad to hear the news of D’Angelo’s passing. He was inspirational. His three albums are perfection. He was the inventor of Neo Soul and has a huge influence to so many artists. A sad day. May his music live on forever,” he posted on Instagram Stories.
For John, who built his own career on musical innovation, D’Angelo represented the rare artist who could shift culture simply by staying true to himself. That admiration only deepened as D’Angelo’s influence expanded, reaching new audiences and inspiring the next generation of artists.
A Sad Day for Music
Artists like Beyoncé, Jamie Foxx, Lauryn Hill, and D’Angelo’s children also shared tributes. Each reflected on his impact and the timeless quality of his music. Many described his voice as spiritual, his lyrics as healing, and his presence as unforgettable. The wave of emotion showed how deeply his work touched people far beyond R&B.
D’Angelo’s passing reminded the world how rare his artistry was. He built bridges between soul, funk, and hip-hop, creating music that still feels alive decades later. John’s words summed up what many felt: the loss of a true original and the lasting gift of his sound.
The R&B singer passed away from pancreatic cancer. He was 51. According to the BBC, the “Brown Sugar” singer was working on his fourth album with Raphael Saadiq. D’Angelo leaves behind three children, one of whom he shared with the late singer Angie Stone.
A Legacy That Lives Beyond the Music
D’Angelo’s passing has left a visible void in the industry. From his early days redefining R&B to his later triumphs, he remained an artist whose influence stretched far beyond his own era. John’s tribute serves as both a farewell and a reminder of D’Angelo’s lasting legacy. He was a voice that changed the rhythm of modern soul and will continue to move hearts for generations to come.
How has D’Angelo’s music impacted your life? Share your favorite song or memory in the comments below.
