Funk-rock legend Sly Stone, leader of Sly and the Family Stone, has died at the age of 82, his family announced on Monday. Stone had been battling chronic lung disease and other health issues for a prolonged period.
A groundbreaking innovator and pioneer in pop, funk, and rock music, Stone’s iconic songs have left an indelible mark on the world. Born Sylvester Stewart, he began singing gospel music with his siblings at a young age and later formed a band that blended psychedelic and funk styles.
Sly and the Family Stone rose to fame in the 1960s and 1970s, known for their diverse music style and multicultural lineup. Their hit single “Dance to the Music” (1967) reached No. 8 on the Billboard Pop Singles chart. The band performed at iconic events like Woodstock (1969) and the Summer of Soul concert in Harlem.
Despite internal struggles and personal demons, Sly and the Family Stone was inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 1993. Stone made a comeback to the stage at the 2005 Grammy Awards but remained largely out of the public eye after that.
Stone’s family is eager to share his life story in a forthcoming screenplay project.
Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c4g2d5yz1r1o