February 11, 1974 – Michael Eugene Archer a.k.a. D’Angelo, American singer & songwriter, is 47. Happy Birthday Sir

D’Angelo: A Neo-Soul Pioneer

D’Angelo, born Michael Eugene Archer in Richmond, Virginia, is a musician known for his contributions to the neo-soul genre.

He grows up in a Pentecostal church where his father serves as a minister.

At age three, he begins playing piano and later becomes his father’s organist at church.

Early Life and Musical Beginnings

D’Angelo is influenced by gospel, as well as artists like Sly and the Family Stone, James Brown, and Prince.

He studies Prince’s albums, reading liner notes and aspiring to emulate his artistry.

He forms a band with his cousins called Three of a Kind.

He later creates another band with his brother, Luther, called Michael Archer & Precise.

D’Angelo performs at the Apollo Theater’s Amateur Night and wins on his second attempt.

He uses the prize money to buy a keyboard and a four-track recorder.

He drops out of high school to pursue music full-time and produces for the rap group I.D.U.

Record Deal and Early Career

Jocelyn Cooper, a publishing executive, signs D’Angelo to a solo publishing contract after hearing his demos.

Gary Harris from EMI signs him in 1993 after seeing him perform covers of Marvin Gaye and Al Green.

His first major success comes with writing the music for “U Will Know” for the *Jason’s Lyric* soundtrack.

He meets Raphael Saadiq, and they begin collaborating on various projects.

The “Brown Sugar” Era

D’Angelo releases his debut album, *Brown Sugar*, in July 1995.

Most of the songs originate from early compositions on his keyboard and four-track.

He plays most of the instruments on the album.

The album features the hit song “Lady” and combines hip-hop and soul elements.

*Brown Sugar* becomes a landmark album and contributes to the emergence of neo-soul.

D’Angelo states he never identifies with the neo-soul label but considers himself a Black music artist.

He tours for two years, including a recorded performance at London’s Jazz Cafe.

Post-“Brown Sugar” and “Voodoo” Era

Following the *Brown Sugar* tour, D’Angelo experiences writer’s block.

He contributes to soundtracks, covering Prince’s “She’s Always in My Hair” for *Scream 2*.

The birth of his son inspires the song “Send It On”.

He begins recording *Voodoo* at Electric Lady Studios, influenced by Jimi Hendrix.

Working with Questlove, they draw inspiration from R&B legends.

The recording process involves live sessions with minimal overdubs and analog equipment.

*Voodoo* is released in 2000 and showcases a more experimental and eclectic sound.

The hit single “Untitled (How Does It Feel)” and its music video emphasize his physique.

The video’s success causes issues for him, with audiences focusing on his appearance rather than his music.

The *Voodoo* tour features his band, The Soultronics, and sells out in multiple cities.

Personal Struggles and Hiatus

D’Angelo struggles with being perceived as a sex symbol.

He faces challenges with substance abuse and personal losses.

He isolates himself and becomes difficult to work with.

Virgin Records cuts funding for his third album in 2004.

He is arrested multiple times and involved in a serious car accident.

Eric Clapton encourages him to seek rehabilitation.

Industry rumors blame Angie Stone for his substance abuse.

Return and “Black Messiah”

Questlove leaks “Really Love” in 2007, leading to a rift in their relationship.

D’Angelo returns to touring in 2012, debuting new material.

His third album, *Black Messiah*, is released in 2014 after a long hiatus.

The album’s release is moved up following social justice events.

*Black Messiah* blends soul, rock, and funk with political undertones.

The album receives critical acclaim and earns D’Angelo a Grammy.

Later Career and Influence

D’Angelo makes sporadic appearances, including a Prince tribute on *The Tonight Show*.

He contributes to the *Red Dead Redemption 2* soundtrack.

He participates in a Verzuz live event as a solo performer.

His music blends soul, funk, R&B, and hip-hop influences.

He draws inspiration from Prince, Marvin Gaye, and James Brown.

He is known for intricate vocal arrangements and live instrumentation.

Legacy

D’Angelo is considered a pioneer of the neo-soul movement.

His music is praised for its depth, musicianship, and emotional authenticity.

Despite personal struggles, his influence on contemporary music remains significant.

His albums continue to be regarded as essential contributions to modern R&B.