I wanted to see how D’Angelo would continue to evolve as part of this lineage. It was heartbreaking to put “late” in front of his name in my book yesterday. 4/4

Whether they are serving as inspirations or cautionary tales, these men are all teachers. And the Black artists coming after them can use the lessons. 3/4

One of my favorite sections is about Prince’s “spiritual predecessors”: Little Richard, Marvin Gaye and Al Green. There are obvious musical comparisons to be made, but I’m more interested in examining how they navigated the sacred and profane in their art and in their lives. 2/4

(10/10)

(9/10)

(8/10)

(7/10)

(6/10)

(5/10)

It’s best to remember his process, genius and impact. Rest in peace.

- Photo of D'Angelo taken by me at Bonnaroo 2015. (4/10)

I eventually landed a placement, completed the interviews, wrote the piece and received payment. But the article was never released. I’m sharing it for the first time because it’s really all I can offer right now after finding out that another one of my favorite artists has died. (3/10)

That is exactly what happened when “Unshaken” was discovered in the 2018 video game “Red Dead Redemption 2.” I was at a doctor’s appointment freaking out. I immediately grabbed my phone and fired off emails to do interviews with D’Angelo’s co-writers before I even pitched a publication. (2/10)