LOS ANGELES, Oct 15 — Grammy-winning R&B artist D’Angelo, a pioneer of neo-soul music, died at the age of 51 on Tuesday “after a prolonged and courageous battle with cancer,” his family said in a statement.

“We are saddened that he can only leave dear memories with his family, but we are eternally grateful for the legacy of extraordinarily moving music he leaves behind,” his family said, adding “the shining star of our family has dimmed his light for us in this life.”