Shortly before his death, D’Angelo had just celebrated the 30th anniversary of his seminal 1995 debut album, Brown Sugar, which was released to critical acclaim in July of 1995.

In this episode of In The Kitchen with Matt, learn how to make brown sugar at home with just 2 ingredients. This homemade brown sugar recipe is extremely easy to make and comes together in about 5 minutes.

D'Angelo blurred the lines between sacred and sensual, defining modern R&B with his unique voice and musicianship.

D'Angelo "emerged as a nostalgic figure in modern soul," said Pitchfork's Marcus J Moore. "His blend of 1970s R&B and hip-hop felt uniquely vintage and modern. He appealed to wide swaths of listeners and helped usher in a new strain of black music."

Brown sugar hardens over time as it loses moisture. Soften it by gently warming it and keep it moist by storing it in an airtight container.

D'Angelo, who is survived by his three children, also struggled with issues related to his weight. According to People Magazine, a source close to the performer shared that the " Untitled: How Does It Feel" singer was living a reclusive life prior to his death and refused to leave his house. They said:

D’Angelo brought his unique sound to the music world with his 1995 debut album, “Brown Sugar ," which included hit songs like “Lady” and “Cruisin.” In 2000, he won his first Grammy for the song “Untitled (How Does It Feel)” from his album “Voodoo ." He would go on to win three more Grammy awards during his influential career.

The singer, songwriter and producer’s 2000 album was the result of years in the studio listening to inspiring music, jamming and rediscovering his artistic purpose.

Beyoncé, Jamie Foxx, Lauryn Hill, and more pay tribute to "Brown Sugar" singer D'Angelo, who died at the age of 51 after a battle with pancreatic cancer: 'A beacon of light.'