Sly Stone, best known as the frontman of The Family Stone, has died at age 82.
He was a pioneer of funk music in the late 60s and early 70s, known for his psychedelic and rock infusion into the genre.
In a statement, his family shared: ‘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.’
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a group of lung conditions which impact someone’s ability to breathe.
His family continued: ‘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.’
Stone was performing from an early age, first appearing on a gospel record by The Stewart Four at the age of nine with his siblings.
The Family Stone had numerous hits throughout the 60s, including three number one singles: Family Affair, Everyday People and Thank You (Falettinme Be Mice Elf Agin).
Other hits included I Want to Take You Higher, Hot Fun in the Summertime, and Dance to the Music.
They took to the stage in 1969 at the iconic Woodstock festival as well as the Harlem Cultural Festival.
He was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1993, along with the Family Stone group and took part in a Sly and the Family Stone tribute at the 2006 Grammy Awards.
Born Sylvester Stewart on March 15, 1943, he grew up in Texas with his Pentecostal religious family.
The family statement continued: ‘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.’
In a 2023 interview with the Guardian, Stone said: ‘I was always happy if someone took the things I was doing and they liked them enough to want to do them on their own. I’m proud that the music I made inspired people.’
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