Lauryn Hill has described D’Angelo as a “beacon of light” in a heartfelt tribute.
On Tuesday, it was announced the award-winning R&B singer-songwriter had died from pancreatic cancer, aged 51. Following the news, tributes flooded in from around the music industry, with Hill taking to social media to express her sorrow.
She wrote on Instagram: “Your undeniable beauty and talent were not of this world, and a presence not of this world needs protection in a world that covets light and the anointing of God. You sir, moved us, stirred us, inspired and even intimidated others to action with your genius.
“Thank you for being a beacon of light to a generation and beyond who had no remembrance of the legacy that preceded us.”
Hill began the post by noting “people need reflection” as she expressed her sadness at not having “more time” with her friend and collaborator.
D’Angelo featured on Nothing Even Matters, a track from Hill’s 1998 debut solo album The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill. The song received a Grammy nomination for Best R&B Performance by a Duo or Group.
During the emotional message, the 50-year-old singer praised D’Angelo – born Michael Eugene Archer – for carving out a career path in the industry that would help to inspire future musicians.
She continued: “Thank you for charting the course and for making space during a time when no similar space really existed. You imaged a unity of strength and sensitivity in Black manhood to a generation that only saw itself as having to be one or the other.”
Alongside the post, Hill shared several photos of the late star.
Hill went on to express her hope that D’Angelo was now “in peace” and free from “selfishness and fear”.
She finished her post with the message: “I Love you and I miss you. May God grant peace and shelter to your family, true friends and genuine appreciators, Brother, King.”
