This year proved to be profoundly impactful for Black communities, marking the passing of two legendary talents: D’Angelo and Angie Stone. While fans shared their grief on social media, their son, Michael Archer II—affectionately known as Swayo Twain—bore the unimaginable burden of losing both parents within mere months of each other. This heartbreaking narrative underscores not only the personal losses he has faced but also the broader legacy left behind by these iconic artists.
In a recent conversation with Tamron Hall, Archer shared his emotions in the wake of his parents’ passings, stating, “After it happened, [there was] just a silence.” This silence, he noted, was overwhelming, emphasizing how life can shift abruptly, leaving behind a profound void. The world outside continued its pace, but for Archer, everything felt eerily quiet in the face of his loss.
The unexpected loss of his mother brought with it a special kind of heartache. Angie Stone tragically succumbed to a fatal car accident on March 1, 2025. Archer reminisced about their close bond, describing her as not just his mother but also his best friend. In her final months, he stepped into the role of caretaker as she battled kidney failure. “My mama was on dialysis, and she was trying to actively get a new kidney,” he explained. He painted a vivid picture of her resilience—how she would undergo dialysis in the mornings and still manage her responsibilities, including preparations for her ongoing tour.
Just a day before Archer’s birthday, Stone received approval for a new kidney. Reflecting on her indomitable spirit, he noted, “She was a warrior. She didn’t tell anybody, didn’t ask for sympathy or anything.” This tenacity resonated with Archer, who recognized that his mother faced her challenges head-on without complaint. These memories are not just about loss; they are a testament to the strength and perseverance Angie Stone embodied throughout her life.
Conversely, the circumstances surrounding D’Angelo’s passing were equally surprising. Archer revealed that he only discovered his father’s battle with pancreatic cancer through a FaceTime call. The visual impact of seeing his father’s condition made the gravity of the situation all too real. He recounted how he pieced together the situation, feeling the need to consult family members to grasp the full extent of his father’s health struggles. What struck him was D’Angelo’s request for discretion: “He had kind of told everybody, don’t tell me. He was like, ‘cuz you’re going through enough,’” Archer recalled, shedding light on his father’s humility amidst personal challenges.
The moment became even more poignant when Archer received the news of his father’s passing from multiple uncles, accompanied by the doctor on the line. This shared family moment was marked by a sense of disbelief and sorrow, serving as yet another reminder of how life can change abruptly, leaving loved ones grappling with immediate grief.
As Archer navigates this new reality, he has expressed gratitude for the overwhelming support he has received from the public—messages, prayers, and uplifting words have surrounded him, offering solace during this difficult time. Emerging as an artist in his own right, Archer is on a journey to honor his parents’ musical legacies. He acknowledges the immense talent of D’Angelo and Angie Stone, asserting, “I could never be them. I could never do what they did.” Yet, he sees himself as a continuation of their spirit and creativity, encouraging himself to embrace authenticity while paying homage to their contributions.
“But I am them, I come from them. So I just have to be myself, and by being myself, I honor them,” he concluded. This understanding of legacy—blending personal identity with familial history—fuels Archer’s artistic vision as he steps forward into what will undoubtedly be a remarkable career, shaped by both heritage and individual creativity.