Justin Timberlake Credits D'Angelo's Influence on Defining His Musical Identity

Justin Timberlake Credits D'Angelo for Helping Him Define His Voice: 'You Changed Me' LOS ANGELES - Justin Timberlake paid tribute to the late D'Angelo, crediting his music with helping him define his own voice. In a heartfelt post on Instagram Stories, Timberlake shared how D'Angelo's work, particularly his album "Brown Sugar," had a profound impact on his musical journey. "Ill never forget hearing Brown Sugar for the first time," Timberlake wrote. "It changed me. You changed me." He described the record as the most pivotal moment in establishing confidence in his own voice, praising its unique blend of early R&B and modern edge. The chords and arrangement carried a mixture of church-jazz-funk, with harmonies delicately dancing together. Timberlake also praised D'Angelo's 2000 album "Voodoo" as his favorite mixed album, highlighting its innovative production and genre-bending sound. He expressed gratitude for having met D'Angelo backstage at Radio City Music Hall, where he was able to thank him in person. D'Angelo, whose real name is Michael Eugene Archer, passed away on October 14 at the age of 51. His music has had a lasting impact on the soul and R&B genres, influencing artists such as Timberlake and Kendrick Lamar. D'Angelo's albums "Brown Sugar" (2000), "Voodoo" (2000), and "Black Messiah" (2014) have been widely acclaimed for their innovative production and genre-bending sound. D'Angelo's music has also been credited with helping to shape the sound of contemporary R&B. His use of live instruments, combined with electronic elements, created a unique sound that blended traditional soul with modern production techniques. This approach has influenced a generation of artists, including Timberlake, who have sought to push the boundaries of the genre. The music industry is still reeling from D'Angelo's passing, with many artists and fans paying tribute to his legacy. Timberlake's heartfelt post serves as a testament to the enduring impact of D'Angelo's music on his own career and artistic vision. As the music world mourns the loss of D'Angelo, his influence will continue to be felt through the countless artists he has inspired. His innovative approach to production and genre-bending sound have left an indelible mark on the music industry, cementing his legacy as one of the most influential musicians of his generation. Background: D'Angelo's music was a key part of the soul and R&B revival of the 1990s and early 2000s. His albums "Brown Sugar" and "Voodoo" were critically acclaimed for their innovative production and genre-bending sound, which blended traditional soul with modern electronic elements. Additional Perspectives: "D'Angelo's music was a game-changer," said music producer and songwriter, The-Dream. "He pushed the boundaries of what was possible in R&B and helped to create a new generation of artists who were inspired by his innovative approach." Current Status and Next Developments: As the music industry continues to mourn the loss of D'Angelo, fans are coming together to celebrate his legacy through tributes and memorials. Timberlake's heartfelt post serves as a reminder of the enduring impact of D'Angelo's music on his own career and artistic vision. In related news, a tribute concert is being planned in honor of D'Angelo's life and work. The event will feature performances by artists who have been influenced by D'Angelo's music, including Timberlake and Kendrick Lamar. Sources: Justin Timberlake, Instagram Stories "Brown Sugar" (2000) album credits "Voodoo" (2000) album credits "Black Messiah" (2014) album credits *Reporting by Rollingstone.*