Justin Timberlake Credits D'Angelo's Influence for Finding His Vocal Identity

Justin Timberlake Credits D'Angelo for Helping Him Define His Voice: 'You Changed Me' LOS ANGELES - Singer-songwriter Justin Timberlake has paid tribute to the late soul music legend D'Angelo, crediting his work with helping him establish confidence in his own voice. In a heartfelt post on Instagram Stories, Timberlake shared how D'Angelo's 2000 album "Brown Sugar" was a pivotal moment in his musical journey. "Ill never forget hearing Brown Sugar for the first time," Timberlake wrote. "It changed me. You changed me." He praised the record as a game-changer that blended traditional R&B with modern elements, creating a unique sound that resonated deeply with him. Timberlake's tribute comes after D'Angelo's passing on October 14 at the age of 51. The musician's three solo albums - "Brown Sugar," "Voodoo" (2000), and "Black Messiah" (2014) - have had a profound impact on the music industry, helping to shape the landscape of soul music and inspire a new generation of artists. In his post, Timberlake also praised D'Angelo's 2000 album "Voodoo," calling it his favorite mixed album. He noted that the record's blend of church, jazz, and funk elements created a sound that was both nostalgic and forward-thinking. D'Angelo's influence on contemporary music is undeniable. His innovative approach to soul music has inspired artists such as Timberlake, who have credited him with helping them define their own unique voices. "For the first time, I heard a sound that reflected the sounds I grew up with early R&B but now it was intertwined with a modern edge," Timberlake wrote. The impact of D'Angelo's music extends beyond the industry, as well. His albums have been praised for their emotional depth and lyrical complexity, resonating with fans who appreciate authentic storytelling in music. "D'Angelo's music has a way of tapping into something deeper within us," said music critic and journalist, Greg Kot. "He's an artist who understands the power of music to heal and transform." As news of D'Angelo's passing spreads, fans and fellow musicians are taking to social media to pay tribute to his legacy. Timberlake's heartfelt post is just one example of the outpouring of love and admiration for a musician who has left an indelible mark on the music world. In the coming weeks and months, it will be interesting to see how D'Angelo's influence continues to shape the music industry. His innovative approach to soul music has already inspired a new generation of artists, and his legacy is likely to endure for years to come. Background: D'Angelo's music career spanned over two decades, during which he released three solo albums that have been widely praised by critics and fans alike. His debut album "Brown Sugar" (1995) was a critical success, but it was his 2000 album "Voodoo" that cemented his status as a soul music icon. Context: D'Angelo's influence on contemporary music is undeniable. His innovative approach to soul music has inspired artists such as Timberlake, who have credited him with helping them define their own unique voices. The impact of D'Angelo's music extends beyond the industry, as well, resonating with fans who appreciate authentic storytelling in music. Additional Perspectives: Music critic and journalist Greg Kot praised D'Angelo's ability to tap into something deeper within his listeners. "D'Angelo's music has a way of tapping into something deeper within us," he said. "He's an artist who understands the power of music to heal and transform." Current Status and Next Developments: As news of D'Angelo's passing spreads, fans and fellow musicians are taking to social media to pay tribute to his legacy. Timberlake's heartfelt post is just one example of the outpouring of love and admiration for a musician who has left an indelible mark on the music world. In the coming weeks and months, it will be interesting to see how D'Angelo's influence continues to shape the music industry. His innovative approach to soul music has already inspired a new generation of artists, and his legacy is likely to endure for years to come. *Reporting by Rollingstone.*