Benzino is catching serious heat online after posting what he called a tribute to the late D’Angelo, just days after the neo-soul legend’s passing.
The Source co-founder and rapper took to Instagram to share a clip from his 2020 music video “Bigger Picture”, writing in the caption:
“I absolutely was influenced by the amazing artist D’Angelo. RIP King — your music is timeless.”
However, instead of receiving praise, Benzino’s post sparked a wave of mockery and outrage across social media.
The reason? The video appeared to be a recreation of D’Angelo’s iconic “Untitled (How Does It Feel)” visual, complete with the same slow, intimate tone that made the original so legendary. Fans immediately accused Benzino of clout-chasing and called the move “disrespectful”, especially given how recently D’Angelo had passed.
Social Media Backlash
Benzino turned off the comments on his Instagram post, but that didn’t stop the internet from reacting elsewhere. Platforms like X (formerly Twitter) lit up with disbelief.
“No way he’s getting into heaven,” one user joked.
Another wrote, “Man ain’t been gone 24 hours and already clout chasing his name. This is disgraceful.”
“This is sooooo cringe lol,” added another.
Many fans felt that Benzino’s timing — and the sensual tone of the clip — made the “tribute” feel insincere and opportunistic, rather than heartfelt. Others noted that paying homage to D’Angelo while mimicking one of his most sensual visuals was tone-deaf, especially so soon after his death.
D’Angelo’s Passing
The backlash follows the devastating news of D’Angelo’s death earlier this week. The 51-year-old R&B and neo-soul icon reportedly passed away on October 14, 2025, following a private battle with pancreatic cancer.
His family confirmed the heartbreaking news in a statement:
“The shining star of our family has dimmed his light for us in this life… After a prolonged and courageous battle with cancer, we are heartbroken to announce that Michael D’Angelo Archer, known to his fans around the world as D’Angelo, has been called home… We ask that you respect our privacy during this difficult time but invite you to join us in mourning his passing while celebrating the gift of song that he has left for the world.”
Since the announcement, countless tributes have poured in from across the industry, with artists like Tyler, The Creator, Lauryn Hill, The Alchemist, Jill Scott, and Justin Timberlake honoring D’Angelo’s lasting impact on music and culture.
As for Benzino, he has yet to respond to the criticism surrounding his post. But for many fans, the damage is already done — and his so-called “tribute” has quickly become one of the most controversial reactions to D’Angelo’s death so far.
