Black Messiah by D'Angelo and the Vanguard

Released: 2014

Genre: R&B, Soul

"Black Messiah," released in December 2014, marked D'Angelo's triumphant return after a 14-year hiatus, redefining contemporary R&B and soul. The album, showcasing a rich tapestry of funk, jazz, and rock influences, is anchored by the standout track "Really Love," which combines lush instrumentation with D'Angelo’s sultry vocals, ultimately earning a Grammy Award for Best R&B Song. The production, primarily helmed by D'Angelo and his band, the Vanguard, employs live instrumentation and intricate arrangements, creating a raw yet polished sound that echoes the social and political unrest of its time, paralleling movements like Black Lives Matter. Charting at number five on the Billboard 200, "Black Messiah" was heralded as a cultural touchstone, with its themes of resistance and empowerment resonating deeply within the socio-political landscape of the era. The album's bold experimentation and lyrical depth solidified D'Angelo's legacy as a visionary artist, influencing a new generation of musicians and redefining the possibilities of modern soul music.

Listen to this album