D'Angelo, Grammy-winning R&B and soul star, dies at 51 after pancreatic cancer diagnosis

R&B and soul singer D’Angelo died Tuesday, leaving behind a "legacy of extraordinarily moving music" after a "prolonged and courageous battle with cancer," his family said

R&B and soul singer D’Angelo died Tuesday, leaving behind a "legacy of extraordinarily moving music" after a "prolonged and courageous battle with cancer," his family said.

The influential music star, born Michael D’Angelo Archer, was 51.

“The shining star of our family has dimmed his light for us in this life," his family said in a statement. "After a prolonged and courageous battle with cancer, we are heartbroken to announce that Michael D’Angelo Archer, known to his fans around the world as D’Angelo, has been called home, departing this life today."

"We ask that you respect our privacy during this difficult time but invite you all join us in mourning his passing while also celebrating the gift of song that he has left for the world.”

D’Angelo, a singer, songwriter and multi-instrumentalist, is credited with helping popularize neo-soul — a genre of modern R&B and soul flavored with hip-hop, funk, rock and other influences — alongside artists such as Lauryn Hill, Maxwell and Erykah Badu.