Grammy-winning musician D'Angelo has died at the age of 51 after "a prolonged and courageous battle with pancreatic cancer," his family told US media Tuesday.

The R&B icon and neo-soul pioneer melded genres and opened doors as he stretched the boundaries of Black pop traditions while producing sensuous hits including "Brown Sugar" and the "Untitled (How Does It Feel)."

The risque, shirtless music video for the latter track catapulted the artist to superstardom, though he struggled with the weight of his newfound pop culture fame.

"The shining star of our family has dimmed his light for us in this life," his family said in a widely reported statement. "After a prolonged and courageous battle with cancer, we are heartbroken to announce that Michael D'Angelo Archer, known to his fans aroun

See Full Page