Sir Tom Jones, 85, has published a heartfelt tribute following the death of R&B artist D'Angelo.
The acclaimed musician passed away at 51 following a private struggle with pancreatic cancer.
D'Angelo, whose birth name was Michael Eugene Archer, died on October 14 after what his family described as a lengthy and brave fight against the illness.
The Virginia-born performer was instrumental in shaping the neo-soul genre during the 1990s and beyond. His death marks the loss of one of R&B's most innovative voices, whose influence extended far beyond his three studio albums.
Sir Tom Jones and D'Angelo performed together in the early 00s
|GETTY
His loved ones released a heartfelt statement describing the singer as their family's "shining star" whose light had now dimmed.
They expressed being devastated to announce that Michael D'Angelo Archer, recognised globally as D'Angelo, had been "called home" on October 14, 2025.
The statement acknowledged their sadness whilst expressing gratitude for the remarkable musical heritage he created.
The family requested privacy during their grief but encouraged fans to commemorate his life by celebrating his musical contributions to the world.
Tom Jones paid tribute to the singer
| PASir Tom echoed the sentiment in his own tribute published on Instagram on October 15.
Sir Tom simply 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.
"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... RIP, D. Tom Jones," the Sexbomb hitmaker signed off.
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Sir Tom Jones shared a statement on Instagram
|Born Michael Eugene Archer in Richmond, Virginia, D'Angelo grew up immersed in music alongside his elder brother Luther Archer.
His musical legacy encompasses three groundbreaking studio recordings that transformed contemporary R&B.
The 1995 release of Brown Sugar established him as a formidable talent at just 21 years old, introducing his distinctive blend of hip-hop edge and gospel-influenced emotion.
Five years later, Voodoo showcased his artistic evolution, earning the Grammy for Best R&B Album. The record's single Untitled (How Does It Feel) secured him another Grammy for Best Male R&B Vocal Performance, whilst its provocative video transformed him into an unexpected cultural phenomenon.
Following a 14-year hiatus, he returned with Black Messiah in 2014, which also claimed the Grammy for Best R&B Album.
Numerous musicians paid tribute to the late artist, including DJ Premier who collaborated with D'Angelo on Devil's Pie.
The DJ posted on X: "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."
The singer had faced health challenges earlier this year. In May, he withdrew from a scheduled headline appearance at Philadelphia's Roots Picnic, citing complications from earlier surgery.
Sir Tom Jones and D'Angelo
|GETTY
His statement explained that medical specialists had advised against performing, as it could worsen his condition.
Tyler, the Creator and The Alchemist were amongst other artists sharing tributes following news of his death.