Sly Stone Dies At 82

Sly Stone Dies At 82

Sly Stone died in Los Angeles at the age of 82. Frontman for Sly and the Family Stone, he created one of the most influential bands in the development of funk, R&B, Soul, and rock music. A few of their hits “Everyday People” “Dance To The Music” and “Stand!” hit the 70s with a joyful bash and influenced celebrated artists for years to come.

Representatives for the family shared this message:

“It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved dad, Sly Stone of Sly and the Family Stone. After a prolonged battle with COPD and other health issues, Sly passed away peacefully, surrounded by his three children, his closest friend, and his extended family. While we mourn his absence, we take solace in knowing that his extraordinary musical legacy will continue to resonate and inspire for generations to come.”

The message continues. “Sly was a monumental figure, a groundbreaking innovator, and a true pioneer who redefined the landscape of pop, funk, and rock music. His iconic songs have left an indelible mark on the world, and his influence remains undeniable. In a testament to his enduring creative spirit, Sly recently completed the screenplay for his life story, a project we are eager to share with the world in due course, which follows a memoir published in 2024.

We extend our deepest gratitude for the outpouring of love and prayers during this difficult time. We wish peace and harmony to all who were touched by Sly’s life and his iconic music. Thank you from the bottom of our hearts for your unwavering support.”

Singer, songwriter, multi-instrumentalist and record producer, Sly Stone leaves his indelible mark on generations of musicians including Stevie Wonder, Prince, Michael Jackson, George Clinton, Miles Davis, Herbie Hancock and more.

Sly Stone was born Sylvester Stewart in Denton, Texas on March 15, 1943. The family moved to California and Sly began singing at the age of four. A prodigy, he began singing in the church choir and with his siblings. By the time he was a teenager, Sly had mastered guitar, drums, keyboards and bass.

After working as a DJ for a San Francisco radio station, he began playing keyboards for Dionne Warwick, the Righteous Brothers, Marvin Gaye and more. By the mid 1960s, Sly formed the band Sly and the Family Stone. Debut album ‘A Whole New Thing’ kicked off their career and by the time their fourth album was released ‘Stand!’ featured three Top Five singles “Hot fun In the Summertime”, “Everyday People” and “Thank you”. The band members had personal issues and found it difficult to stay together. They disbanded in 1975.

Sly Stone went on to record several solo albums and one was credited to his name and the rest were attributed to Sly and the Family Stone records. Sly also collaborated with Funkadelic. His challenges with drugs and alcohol worsened and he withdrew from the spotlight. He made appearances with Sly and the Family Stone at the 1993 Rock and Roll Hall of Fame induction ceremony and at the 2006 Grammy Awards.

Sly Stone penned a book released in October of 2023 ‘Thank you. (Falettineme Be Mice Elf Agin): A Memoir.’

Rest in peace.

“Everyday People”