Legendary singer, songwriter, and musician Sly Stone, best known as the leader of the iconic band Sly and the Family Stone, has passed away at the age of 82 due to chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and other health conditions. His family released a heartfelt statement expressing their profound sadness over his passing, noting that he died peacefully surrounded by loved ones.
Born Sylvester Stewart in Denton, Texas, and raised in Vallejo, California, Sly Stone began his musical career as a disc jockey at San Francisco’s KSOL in the 1960s. He formed Sly and the Stoners, which evolved into Sly and the Family Stone, a band that would become pioneers in blending funk, R&B, soul, and Motown sounds. The band gained fame for their vibrant stage presence and their ability to tackle important social issues through their music.
Sly and the Family Stone released several landmark albums, including “Dance to the Music,” the critically acclaimed “There’s a Riot Goin’ On,” and “Fresh.” After the band’s original lineup disbanded, Sly Stone continued to create music, including his debut solo album “High on You” and the final Family Stone album “Ain’t but the One Way” in 1982.
Though he became more reclusive after the disbandment, Sly made notable appearances, such as the band’s induction into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 1993 and performing at the Grammy Awards in 2006. In the years that followed, he was the focus of a documentary by Ahmir “Questlove” Thompson titled “Sly Lives!” and released his memoir “Thank You (Falettinme Be Mice Elf Agin).” Upcoming projects also include “The First Family: Live at the Winchester Cathedral 1967,” set to be released by High Moon Records, capturing one of the band’s earliest concerts.
Sly Stone’s family is taking comfort in the enduring impact of his musical legacy, which will continue to resonate and inspire future generations. His contributions to the music world and the cultural landscape as a whole are a testament to his talent and vision.