Music Legends Mourn D'Angelo's Sudden Passing: "We Will Listen to You Forever

Nile Rodgers, Missy Elliott, Flea, More Remember D'Angelo: 'We Will Listen to You Forever' Music legends and industry icons are paying tribute to the late neo-soul icon D'Angelo, who passed away on October 14 at the age of 51. The influential musician's untimely death has left a void in the music world, with many of his peers and collaborators sharing heartfelt memories and reflections. Nile Rodgers, the legendary guitarist and producer, recalled meeting D'Angelo for the first time in New York City. "My friend Gary Harris brought this musician named D'Angelo over to my NYC apt," Rodgers shared on Instagram. "He was trying to figure out what to do with the music he'd brought with him. I listened to every cut - not just out of respect but because it was smoking." Rodgers, who later collaborated with D'Angelo on the song "Water Get No Enemy" in 2002, remembered telling the young musician, "Put it out. It's perfect!" Missy Elliott, another music icon, also took to social media to pay tribute to her friend and fellow artist. "D'Angelo was a true original," she wrote. "His music and artistry continue to inspire me to this day." Flea, the bassist of the Red Hot Chili Peppers, shared his own memories of D'Angelo's impact on the music world. "He was one of those rare artists who could make you feel like you were experiencing something new and groundbreaking every time he took the stage," Flea said. D'Angelo's influence on contemporary R&B and hip-hop cannot be overstated. With his debut album "Brown Sugar" in 1995, followed by "Voodoo" in 2000 and "Black Messiah" in 2014, D'Angelo redefined the sound of soul music for a new generation. Throughout his career, D'Angelo's innovative approach to production, songwriting, and performance earned him widespread critical acclaim. His music often explored themes of love, spirituality, and social justice, resonating with fans across genres and generations. As the music world mourns the loss of this creative genius, fans are coming together to celebrate his legacy. "We will listen to you forever," Rodgers wrote in a heartfelt tribute on Instagram. "Your music is timeless, and your spirit lives on through every note." The music industry has yet to confirm plans for any official tributes or memorials, but it's clear that D'Angelo's impact will be felt for years to come. Background: D'Angelo was born Michael Eugene Archer in 1974 in Virginia. He rose to fame with his debut album "Brown Sugar," which earned him two Grammy Awards. Throughout his career, he collaborated with a range of artists, including Erykah Badu, Lauryn Hill, and The Roots. Additional Perspectives: D'Angelo's music has been cited as an inspiration by many contemporary artists, including Kendrick Lamar, Anderson .Paak, and Jhené Aiko. His influence can be heard in the work of producers such as James Blake and Flying Lotus. As fans continue to process the loss of this musical icon, one thing is clear: D'Angelo's legacy will live on through his timeless music and the countless artists he inspired along the way. *Reporting by Rollingstone.*