Benzino Closes Comments After D’Angelo Tribute Roast

In the wake of R&B icon D’Angelo’s passing, many artists have shared heartfelt tributes and messages of inspiration. Benzino was among those who paid homage to the legendary singer, posting a video clip from his 2020 song “Bigger Picture.” However, the tribute quickly became a target for online ridicule, leading Benzino to disable comments on his Instagram post.

The D’Angelo Tribute That Went Left

Benzino’s tribute video featured a scene clearly inspired by D’Angelo’s iconic shirtless moment in his “How Does It Feel” music video. While Benzino captioned the post with “I absolutely was influenced by the Amazing artist DAngelo Rip King your music is timeless. 🕊️,” the five-year-old clip, coupled with the sensitive nature of D’Angelo’s recent passing, didn’t land well with many fans.

The consensus on social media, particularly on X (formerly Twitter), was that the tribute was not well-received. Fans expressed confusion and criticism, with many calling the video “not IT” and questioning Benzino’s judgment. The decision to turn off comments on his Instagram post, which had a relatively low number of likes, suggests an awareness of the negative reception.

Social Media Roasts Benzino

The backlash was swift and widespread. Many users criticized the timing and execution of the tribute, with comments ranging from “Benzino Plzzzz…….We just lost D’Angelo!!!😭😭😭😭😭” to “Benzino is one of the funniest humans ever man. What a character.” Others were more direct, with one user stating, “I did not need to see Benzino do a tribute to D’Angelo’s How Does It Feel. You will drown in the River Styx for putting that on my TL.”

Some users even questioned Benzino’s motives and artistic choices, with comparisons made to other questionable celebrity tributes. The overwhelming sentiment was that the tribute was inappropriate and disrespectful, especially during a time of mourning for D’Angelo and his family.

Remembering D’Angelo

D’Angelo, a three-time Grammy winner and neo-soul pioneer, passed away on Tuesday, October 14, 2025, at the age of 51 after a private battle with pancreatic cancer. His family released a statement expressing their heartbreak but also gratitude for his legacy of “extraordinarily moving music.” D’Angelo is survived by three children and is remembered as an icon who left an indelible mark on the music industry.

While Benzino’s tribute may not have landed as intended, the outpouring of love and respect for D’Angelo from other artists and fans highlights the profound impact he had on music and culture. The focus remains on celebrating his timeless contributions and mourning his loss.

• Benzino posted a tribute video to D’Angelo, inspired by the “How Does It Feel” music video.
• The tribute faced significant backlash and ridicule on social media.
• Benzino subsequently closed the comments section on his Instagram post.
• Fans criticized the timing and execution of the tribute during a period of mourning for D’Angelo.
• D’Angelo, a neo-soul icon, passed away at age 51 after battling pancreatic cancer.