Sly Stone, the influential multi-instrumentalist, singer, and songwriter who led Sly and the Family Stone, has died at the age of 82. His family confirmed the news on social media, announcing that the music legend passed away after a long battle with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) and other health issues.
“It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved dad, Sly Stone,” the family’s statement read. “He passed away peacefully, surrounded by his three children, his closest friend, and his extended family.”
Sly Stone was a monumental figure in the music world, known for his groundbreaking role in shaping funk music. His innovative blend of soul, R&B, and rock helped create a sound that would become synonymous with funk. His family remembered him as “a true pioneer who redefined the landscape of pop, funk, and rock music.”
“Sly’s iconic songs have left an indelible mark on the world, and his influence remains undeniable,” the statement continued. “His extraordinary musical legacy will continue to inspire for generations to come.”
Sly was also working on a screenplay based on his life, which was recently completed, and was preparing to share it with the world. This followed the release of his memoir in 2024. The family thanked fans for their support during this difficult time, asking for peace and harmony for all those touched by Sly’s music.
Sly and the Family Stone’s revolutionary sound was a fusion of different genres, but their 1969 hit Thank You (Falettinme Be Mice Elf Agin) became a pivotal moment in the birth of funk music. The track, driven by Sly and his brother Freddie’s guitars and Larry Graham’s slap bass, remains one of the genre’s most influential records.
However, as the 1970s progressed, the band faced challenges. Sly’s increasing struggle with drug abuse led to growing tensions within the group. His creative vision became darker, culminating in the 1971 album There’s a Riot Goin’ On. The album, often considered a masterpiece, marked a new direction for the band and showcased a new method of self-recording, with Sly working largely on his own in his home studio.
Despite the album’s success, including the chart-topping hit Family Affair, Sly’s personal battles continued to take a toll on the band. By the mid-’70s, Sly and the Family Stone broke up.
Though Sly’s personal struggles often made headlines, his influence on funk, rock, and even hip-hop remained undisputed. This year, hip-hop legend Questlove directed a documentary, Sly Lives! (aka The Burden of Black Genius), celebrating Stone’s life and his profound cultural impact.
“Bless his heart, Sly actually tried to go to taboo territory,” Questlove said. “He put together this intersectional, interracial band: women, men, Black, white. Sly had one foot in San Francisco with all the hippies and one foot in Oakland with all the gangsters.”
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