D’Angelo is no longer with us, but his music reminds us that even in times of grief, loss, and harm, we got each other. And that’s a heck of a lot. Here’s what we mean.
#1. D’Angelo made sensuality sacred in a world where Black bodies are seen as objects. His music — especially Voodoo and Untitled (How Does It Feel) — reclaimed Black intimacy and vulnerability as holy.
#2. D’Angelo made resisting oppression beautiful in a world that pretends our truth is ugly. His music carried the ghost of the church, the fire of the streets, and the weight of history. “The Charade” echoed Ferguson, Breonna Taylor, and George Floyd, giving rhythm to grief and rebellion.
#3. D’Angelo transformed us into time travelers just when old-school music was fading away. He wove Marvin Gaye, Sly Stone, Curtis Mayfield, Prince, and J Dilla into one. By making his art analog, imperfect, and alive, he rejected the digital polish that erased the “Blackness” from so much R&B. He showed us our sound is messy, spiritual, and brilliant.
Whenever we make space for our tenderness, truth, and groove, we live those lessons. So slow down and feel something deeply — and out loud. Play a song that speaks to your spirit, light a candle, touch someone you love gently, or tell the truth.