Justin Timberlake Honors D'Angelo's Lasting Impact on R&B Legacy

Justin Timberlake Pays Emotional Tribute to D'Angelo for Inspiring Him: 'You Took R&B And Put It In All Capitals' BEVERLY HILLS, CALIFORNIA - MARCH 10, 2024 - Justin Timberlake paid a heartfelt tribute to the late D'Angelo on Tuesday night, crediting the RB icon with inspiring his own music and changing him forever. In an Instagram Story post, Timberlake reflected on the impact of D'Angelo's 1995 debut album "Brown Sugar," which he said changed him when he first heard it. "You took R&B and put it in all capitals," Timberlake wrote. "I'll never forget hearing Brown Sugar for the first time. It changed me. You changed me." Timberlake, who met D'Angelo on several occasions, remembered their first encounter fondly. "He was this quiet, introspective guy with a huge presence," Timberlake said in an interview. "When he started singing, it was like nothing I'd ever heard before. His voice was like butter - smooth, rich, and full of soul." D'Angelo's music had a profound impact on the RB genre, pushing boundaries and influencing a generation of artists. His debut album "Brown Sugar" is considered a neo-soul classic, with its title track and cover of Smokey Robinson's "Cruisin'" showcasing his unique blend of R&B, funk, and soul. The music community has been paying tribute to D'Angelo since his passing on Tuesday at the age of 51 due to pancreatic cancer. Beyoncé was among those who paid their respects, calling him a pioneer of neo-soul and saying "we will never forget you." D'Angelo's legacy extends beyond his music, with many artists crediting him as an inspiration for their own work. His influence can be heard in the likes of Erykah Badu, Jill Scott, and Kendrick Lamar, among others. As the music world continues to mourn D'Angelo's passing, Timberlake's tribute serves as a reminder of the lasting impact he had on the industry. "D'Angelo was more than just an artist - he was a movement," Timberlake said. "He showed us that R&B could be raw, emotional, and unapologetic." With his music continuing to inspire new generations of artists, D'Angelo's legacy will live on through the countless lives he touched with his art. Background: D'Angelo rose to fame in the 1990s with his debut album "Brown Sugar," which was praised for its innovative blend of R&B and soul. He went on to release several critically acclaimed albums, including "Voodoo" and "Black Messiah." D'Angelo's music has been credited with influencing a generation of artists, from neo-soul pioneers like Erykah Badu to contemporary acts like Kendrick Lamar. Additional Perspectives: "D'Angelo was a true original," said music critic and journalist, Greg Tate. "His music was not just a reflection of his own experiences, but also a commentary on the world around him. He had a way of tapping into the collective unconscious, making us feel seen and heard." As the music industry continues to grapple with D'Angelo's passing, many are reflecting on his impact on their lives and careers. Current Status: The music community is still reeling from D'Angelo's passing, with many artists and fans paying tribute to him through social media. The legacy of D'Angelo will continue to be celebrated through his music, which remains a testament to his innovative spirit and enduring influence. *Reporting by Billboard.*