Sly Stone, frontman of the influential funk band Sly and the Household Stone, has handed away. He was 82.
Stone’s household introduced the enduring musician’s passing on Monday, June 9, through a press release to USA Immediately.
“It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved dad, Sly Stone of Sly and the Family Stone,” the assertion started. “After a prolonged battle with [Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease] 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 “Everyday People” singer’s household continued.
“Sly was a monumental figure, a groundbreaking innovator, and a true pioneer who redefined the landscape of pop, funk and rock music,” they added. “His iconic songs have left an indelible mark on the world, and his influence remains undeniable.”
Stone’s family members revealed that the “Dance to the Music” hitmaker had “completed the screenplay for his life story” shortly earlier than his passing and that the challenge can be “shared with the world in due course.”
“In a testament to his enduring creative spirit, Stone 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,” they mentioned.
Born Sylvester Stewart in Denton, Tex., in 1943, Stone and his brother, Freddie, shaped Sly and the Household Stone in 1966. The band additionally included their sister, Rose.
Sly and the Household Stone achieved widespread fame with the discharge of their first hit single, “Dance to the Music.”
Stone’s affect on pop, funk and rock music was solidified with the discharge of the band’s album “Stand!” and its hit single “Everyday People” in 1968.
Sadly, Stone’s drug use and different issues compelled the band to separate up for good in 1983.
By 2011, Stone was homeless and dwelling in a van in Los Angeles.
“I like my small camper,” the funk legend mentioned 14 years earlier than his loss of life. “I just do not want to return to a fixed home. I cannot stand being in one place. I must keep moving.”
Stone additionally claimed to have lots of of latest tracks that he recorded in his van and was ready to launch.
“But, with new energy, it will feel good to step on stage,” the funk-rock pioneer mentioned on the time. “I see all the guys playing those old songs.”
“Let these guys know, like Lady Gaga, let me come in,” he added, “just let me come in and pay me if you like it.”
The “There’s a Riot Goin’ On” artist is survived by his three youngsters — Sylvester Stewart, Jr., 52, Sylvette Robinson, 49, and Novena Carmel, 43.
He was briefly married to Kathy Silva, 76, within the ’70s earlier than divorcing in 1976.
“We extend our deepest gratitude for the outpouring of love and prayers during this difficult time,” Stone’s household concluded their assertion Monday. “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.”
