Sly Stone, musical pioneer and visionary behind Sly and the Family Stone, dies at 82

Sly Stone, the revolutionary musician and electrifying showman who reshaped popular music in the 1960s and ’70s with timeless hits like Everyday People, Stand!, and Family Affair, has sadly passed away at the age of 82.

In a touching statement, Stone’s family reflected on his final moments and the legacy he leaves behind.

“It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved dad, Sly Stone of Sly and the Family Stone,” the statement read.

“After a prolonged battle with COPD and other underlying 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.

“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 (2023).”

Born March 15, 1943, Stone was a musical prodigy, he learned several instruments as a child and sang gospel music with his siblings, Freddie and Rose. In the mid-1960s, he worked as a radio DJ and a record producer in San Francisco.

In 1966, Stone and his brother Freddie merged their bands to form Sly and the Family Stone—a groundbreaking, multiracial, and mixed-gender group. Their music blended soul, rock, funk, and psychedelia, capturing the spirit of the times with high-energy performances and powerful messages of unity and individuality.

The band’s original lineup included Sly on keyboards, Freddie on guitar, Rose on vocals, Larry Graham on bass, Cynthia Robinson and Jerry Martini on horns, and Greg Errico on drums. They broke through with the hit Dance to the Music in 1968, and followed it with anthems like Everyday People and I Wanna Take You Higher. Their success included five Top 10 singles, three No. 1 hits, and best-selling albums like Stand! and There’s a Riot Goin’ On.

Stone became known for his flamboyant style and dynamic presence, especially during his legendary performance at Woodstock in 1969. His music influenced generations of artists, including George Clinton, Prince, and modern hip-hop acts like Dr. Dre and the Beastie Boys.

However, fame brought challenges. By the early 1970s, Stone was struggling with drug addiction and growing pressure from both his record label and political groups. After moving to Los Angeles, his behaviour became increasingly erratic. The band eventually broke up, and Stone released a few solo albums before fading from the spotlight.

Despite personal struggles, his impact on music remained strong. Sly and the Family Stone were inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 1993 and honoured at the 2006 Grammy Awards.

Stone is survived by his three children — Sylvester Stewart, Jr., 52, Sylvette Robinson, 49, and Novena Carmel, 43.

-with AP.