Michael Eugene Archer aka D’Angelo was an American singer, songwriter, musician, and record producer. Born in Richmond, Virginia, D’Angelo discovered his musical talents at a very young age. He began cultivating his musical talents, joining the music group Precise and briefly the hip hop group I.D.U.

D’Angelo’s first success in his solo career was the 1994 single he co-wrote and co-produced, U Will Know, for the R&B supergroup Black Men United. A year later, D’Angelo released his debut album, Brown Sugar to massive success. The album was certified platinum, is often credited with starting the neo-soul movement.

Since then, D’Angelo has had a significant impact on many future artists in hip-hop, rap, and R&B, like Tyler The Creator. Additionally, influential artists like Chaka Khan, George Clinton, and Prince have praised his work.