D’Angelo’s upcoming album revealed by Questlove as posthumous

D’Angelo, the late R&B legend, left a trove of unreleased music upon his death last month. Fortunately, fans will soon have the chance to experience some of this highly anticipated material.

Longtime friend and collaborator Questlove shared in a red carpet interview with The National News Network at the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame induction ceremony that a posthumous album from D’Angelo is in the works. He emphasized the timeless quality of D’Angelo’s music, blending elements from the past with the sounds of the future. Questlove assured fans that the upcoming release would be no different and carry the hallmark of the late artist.

Raphael Saadiq, another close collaborator of D’Angelo, shed light on the virtuoso’s positive state of mind as he worked on new music. In an interview on the Rolling Stone Music Now podcast in September 2024, Saadiq mentioned that D’Angelo was actively creating six pieces and exhibited great enthusiasm. He emphasized D’Angelo’s sense of artistic control and excitement as he delved into his musical projects.

Saadiq hinted at an exciting feature on the upcoming album, where he, together with Q-Tip, would make an appearance. He mentioned a possible inclusion of a song recorded years ago during sessions for the short-lived supergroup Lynwood Rose. Saadiq recalled the collaborative spirit during the recording, with Q-Tip showcasing his rapping skills, Saadiq on the bass, and both him and D’Angelo providing excellent background vocals. The project, known as D’Angelo’s fourth studio album, is eagerly awaited by fans, following his acclaimed 2014 release, “Black Messiah,” which earned the Grammy for Best R&B Album.

The passing of the “Untitled (How Does It Feel)” artist on October 14 left a void in the music industry. Questlove, in a heartfelt tribute published in Rolling Stone, reminisced about the profound impact D’Angelo had on black music, highlighting his status as one of the last pure artists in the genre. Questlove expressed gratitude for the final weeks spent with D’Angelo, noting that these moments were particularly cherished as they strengthened their friendship.

In conclusion, the upcoming posthumous release of D’Angelo’s album serves as a poignant reminder of his immense talent and enduring legacy. As fans eagerly anticipate this final musical offering, it will undoubtedly be a fitting tribute to a true artistic visionary who left an indelible mark on the world of R&B.