In the world of neo-soul, few artists have managed to capture the magic and depth of the genre like D’Angelo. Alongside his peers, he has created moments in music that fans wish could last forever. Beyond his original masterpieces, D’Angelo has consistently paid tribute to the legends who shaped his sound, delivering cover versions that honor the originals while imprinting his own soulful signature.
Here’s a look at some standout cover performances that showcase D’Angelo’s versatility and reverence for musical history:
“Cruisin’” (Smokey Robinson cover) – D’Angelo takes Smokey Robinson’s classic and infuses it with his signature smooth, sultry style, proving that timeless R&B can be reimagined without losing its soul.
“Water No Get Enemy” (Fela Kuti cover) – Joined by Femi Kuti, Macy Gray, Roy Hargrove, the Soultronics, and Positive Force, D’Angelo delivers a powerhouse performance of Fela Kuti’s Afrobeat anthem, blending jazz, soul, and funk in a vibrant celebration of African music.
“Can’t Hide Love” (Live at the Jazz Cafe, London, 1995; Earth, Wind & Fire cover) – This live performance captures D’Angelo at his most dynamic, taking Earth, Wind & Fire’s classic and transforming it into a neo-soul experience filled with raw emotion and technical brilliance.
“She’s Always in My Hair” (Prince cover) – A bold homage to Prince, D’Angelo channels the pop-funk energy of the original while adding his own introspective nuance.
“Sometimes It Snows in April” (Prince cover, with Princess – Maya Rudolph and Gretchen Lieberum) – A hauntingly beautiful rendition that honors Prince’s melancholic balladry while layering soulful harmonies and delicate instrumentation.
“Your Precious Love” (Marvin Gaye and Tammi Terrell cover, with Erykah Badu) – D’Angelo teams up with Erykah Badu to breathe new life into this classic duet, showcasing the enduring power of love, soul, and musical chemistry.
Additionally, Roman GianArthur’s “OK Lady” EP offers a creative mash-up of Radiohead and D’Angelo tracks, illustrating the genre’s continued evolution and the playful, boundary-pushing spirit of contemporary neo-soul.
For fans and newcomers alike, these covers are more than just tributes—they are essential listening, offering a glimpse into the influences that shaped one of neo-soul’s brightest stars. From Fela Kuti’s energetic grooves to Prince’s emotional depth, D’Angelo’s interpretations remind us why his music remains timeless.