The iconic singer, songwriter, and musician Sly Stone has passed away at the age of 82 due to chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and other health complications. Sly was the charismatic leader of Sly and the Family Stone. Below is a heartfelt statement from his family.
Sly Stone, born Sylvester Stewart in Denton, Texas, grew up in Vallejo, California. He embarked on his musical journey in the 1960s as a disc jockey at San Francisco’s KSOL radio station. It was during this time that he formed a band initially called Sly and the Stoners, which eventually evolved into the legendary Sly and the Family Stone.
The band, comprised of Sly’s siblings—Freddie (singer and guitarist), Rose (singer and keyboardist), and background singer Vet—was later joined by an impressive lineup that included bassist and vocalist Larry Graham, saxophonist Jerry Martini, trumpeter Cynthia Robinson, and drummer Greg Errico.
Sly and the Family Stone became renowned for their vibrant stage presence and eclectic fusion of funk, R&B, soul, and Motown influences. Their music explored a rich tapestry of themes, ranging from liberating dance anthems to poignant commentary on social issues, discrimination, and political strife.
Their debut album, A Whole New Thing, hit the shelves in 1967 and marked the beginning of a string of groundbreaking releases. This was followed by essential albums such as Dance to the Music, the 1971 masterpiece There’s a Riot Goin’ On, and Fresh, culminating in their original lineup’s final album, Small Talk, in 1974. The following year, Sly launched his solo career with High on You, still featuring several bandmates. The last album released by Sly and the Family Stone was Ain’t but the One Way in 1982.
After the dissolution of Sly and the Family Stone, Sly became increasingly reclusive but made a notable appearance at the group’s induction into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 1993. Additionally, in 2006, he performed publicly for the first time since 1987 during a tribute to the Family Stone at the Grammy Awards.
In recent years, Sly’s legacy was further spotlighted by Ahmir “Questlove” Thompson’s documentary Sly Lives! (aka The Burden of Black Genius). Moreover, Stone published his memoir titled Thank You (Falettinme Be Mice Elf Agin). Soon, High Moon Records will be releasing The First Family: Live at the Winchester Cathedral 1967, which captures one of Sly and the Family Stone’s earliest concerts.
Statement From the Family of Sly Stone:
It is with great sorrow that we announce the passing of our cherished father, Sly Stone of Sly and the Family Stone. After a prolonged struggle with COPD and various other health issues, Sly departed peacefully, surrounded by his three beloved children, a dear friend, and his extended family. While we mourn his loss, we find comfort in knowing that his remarkable musical legacy will continue to inspire and resonate for generations to come.
