Legendary frontman Sly Stone, known for his iconic funk band Sly & the Family Stone, has passed away at the age of 82. Born Sylvester Stewart in Denton, Texas, Stone was a musical icon who blended psychedelic rock, soul, jazz, gospel, and Latin to create a unique sound.
Stone’s journey began as a child, recording gospel music with his siblings as The Stewart Four. He adopted the nickname “Sly” at age 8, which stuck throughout his life. By 11, he had mastered multiple instruments, including keyboards, guitar, bass, and drums. Stone worked as a disc jockey for an R&B radio station in California, producing records by artists like The Beatles.
In 1966, Stone formed Sly & the Family Stone with his brother Freddie, which became a groundbreaking band featuring women as vocalists and instrumentalists from diverse backgrounds. Hits like “Everyday People,” “Family Affair,” and “Dance to the Music” showcased their eclectic sound. Despite facing pressure from the Black Panthers to remove white members, Stone continued to stand by his art.
The group’s Woodstock performance in 1969 was a legendary moment, with Stone describing it as “the call, the response.” He went on to write about the experience in his memoir, Thank You (Falettinme Be Mice Elf Agin). In recent years, Stone made sporadic public appearances, including performing with his daughter’s band, before being awarded a lifetime achievement Grammy in 2017.
Stone’s legacy as a musical visionary continues to inspire generations. Despite struggling with drug abuse and personal struggles, his charismatic stage presence and distinctive vocals remain woven into the fabric of American music.
Source: https://www.npr.org/2025/06/09/1209525990/sly-stone-obituary