Sly Stone, frontman of the influential funk band Sly and the Family Stone, has passed away. He was 82.
Stone’s family announced the iconic musician’s passing on Monday, June 9, via a statement to USA Today.
“It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved dad, Sly Stone of Sly and the Family Stone,” the statement began. “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 family 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 loved ones revealed that the “Dance to the Music” hitmaker had “completed the screenplay for his life story” shortly before his passing and that the project would 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 said.
Born Sylvester Stewart in Denton, Tex., in 1943, Stone and his brother, Freddie, formed Sly and the Family Stone in 1966. The band also included their sister, Rose.
Sly and the Family Stone achieved widespread fame with the release of their first hit single, “Dance to the Music.”
Stone’s influence on pop, funk and rock music was solidified with the release of the band’s album “Stand!” and its hit single “Everyday People” in 1968.
Unfortunately, Stone’s drug use and other problems forced the band to split up for good in 1983.
By 2011, Stone was homeless and living in a van in Los Angeles.
“I like my small camper,” the funk legend said 14 years before his death. “I just do not want to return to a fixed home. I cannot stand being in one place. I must keep moving.”
Stone also claimed to have hundreds of new tracks that he recorded in his van and was waiting to release.
“But, with new energy, it will feel good to step on stage,” the funk-rock pioneer said at 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 children — Sylvester Stewart, Jr., 52, Sylvette Robinson, 49, and Novena Carmel, 43.
He was briefly married to Kathy Silva, 76, in the ’70s before divorcing in 1976.
“We extend our deepest gratitude for the outpouring of love and prayers during this difficult time,” Stone’s family concluded their statement 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.”
Content shared from nypost.com.