R&B musician Michael 'D'Angelo' Archer has reportedly passed away at the age of 51 on October 14, 2025. Credited as pushing 'neo-music' to the forefront, Archer was reportedly battling cancer, per Rolling Stone. The news outlet reports that Archer left a lasting impression on the music scene, even though he released only three albums, including Brown Sugar (1995), Voodoo (2000), and Black Messiah (2014).
D'Angelo's art has resonated with many, thanks to his unique vocals and raw instrumentation. We are looking at eight of his most popular songs that fans will continue to cherish in his memory, long after he has passed.
Note: This article reflects the writer’s opinion. Do comment with your suggestions to let us know which other items deserve to make the list.

In Memory of D'Angelo: 8 most popular songs to listen to
We are taking a look at the 8 most popular songs in memory of D'Angelo.
1. Untitled [How Does It Feel]
How Does It Feel remains one of the most vulnerable pieces by D'Angelo as he pours his heart out. The song featured in his second studio album, Voodoo, and won Grammy awards for both. Fans returned to the music video uploaded on YouTube and paid tribute to the singer.
2. Brown Sugar
Archer made his debut in the music industry with "Brown Sugar," and his upbeat, jazz-inspired track captured everyone's attention. The track's groovy vibe and catchy wordplay make it another popular hit.
3. Lady
Rolling Stone reports that the song was originally pitched to D'Angelo by R&B singer Raphael Saadiq. The track is a fan favourite and is infused with sensuality and romance. A fan (@BeautifullyMe0314) wrote,
"“Lady” is definitely my stand out song from DeAngelo. I can just sit back and vibe with this on repeat all day. I can remember when he came on the scene mid 90s. His sultry vocals and aesthetic had everyone taking notice. Especially the ladies. He is an icon in his own right."
4. Really Love
Really Love is another classic for which D'Angelo took home the Grammy Award. The raw instrumentation and the strumming of the guitar at the start make it one of the most interesting openings by the singer. As one fan (@FatimaTambajang) described on YouTube,
"I cannot get over the intro of this and the transitioning... it opens up like a flower blossoming"
5. Crusin
With an orchestra playing violins in the background, D'Angelo's voice quite literally 'cruises'. The track is reportedly a rendition of Smokey Robinson's original single. Archer gives it a new shape, and it is smooth to listen to.
6. Nothin' Even Matters
Archer features on The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill, with Nothin' Even Matters. Bringing the best of both worlds together, Archer and Lauryn's vocals glide over each other. In a 2008 interview with Rolling Stone, Archer had spoken about his "sweet" collaboration with Lauryn. He noted,
"Originally, we were going to swap tunes for each other’s projects because I was working on Voodoo at the same time and my keyboardist James Poyser was also working with her. I went to her house in New Jersey, she played a lot of songs for me and gave me a rough copy to listen to. When Lauryn and I went into the studio together, I laid down my vocals in the course of an hour.”
7. Left & Right
Method Man and Redman join Archer to fuse R&B and hip-hop. Left & Right displays Archer's musical prowess and adaptability. Even in a different genre, his vocals are unmissable.
8. The Charade
D'Angelo became one of the most prominent R&B artists and a voice for the Black Lives Matter movement. The Charade is deeply rooted in a sense of protest and fuels resilience. In an interview with Rolling Stone, he revealed that the track channels the "protest" and pain of the people.
Which is your favourite track by the singer? Tell us in the comments below.