Sly Stone, frontman of the band Sly and the Family Stone, whose numerous popular hits included "Dance to the Music," has died at the age of 82, per People. The outlet admiringly referred to him as "one of the most influential bands in the development of funk, soul, R&B, rock and psychedelic music...."
Videos by Wide Open Country
Sly Stone's Family Issued A Statement On June 9 Announcing His Passing And Celebrating His Legacy
Stone's family issued a statement announcing his passing. "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 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."
The announcement also said, "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."
Stone's Family Mentioned Their Thankfulness for All The Compassion And Kindness They Are Receiving
"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."
He Got His Musical Start Participating In A Church Choir
Born in 1943, Stone was originally from Denton, Texas. His family relocated to California. There, at the tender age of just 4 years old, he began singing in the church choir. He acquired the nickname Sly because someone spelled his actual first name, which was Sylvester, incorrectly. In addition, he switched his last name to Stone from Stewart.
Stone Chose A Career Path In Music Early On
Per the outlet, he pursued his dream from his high school days, singing with bands. Stone learned music theory at a community college, then started DJ'ing. The year 1966 was a watershed year for him; that was when Sly and the Stoners formed. (His brother, Freddie, also had a band called Freddie and the Stone souls, so they teamed up.)
Two years ago, Stone explained the dynamic of the band in his memoir. "The band had a concept — white and Black together, male and female both, and women not just singing but playing instruments. That was a big deal back then, and it was a big deal on purpose."
The Year 1967 Was A Decisive One For His Band
In 1967, their freshman LP, A Whole New Thing, dropped. They also had a smash track, "Dance to the Music." Furthermore, the band appeared at one of the most iconic music events of the era, Woodstock. But in the early 1970s, his alleged drug use began to catch up with him. In 1975, Sly and the Family Stone called it quits. They were not forgotten, though, Almost 20 years later, they were welcomed into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame.
Six years ago, Stone kicked his drug habit. Per the outlet via The Guardian, he declared two years ago, "I never lived a life I didn't want to live."
