Funk legend Sly Stone has passed away, and the music world is mourning the loss of one of its true pioneers.
The frontman of Sly and the Family Stone died peacefully after a long battle with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). He was surrounded by his three children, close friends, and family at the time of his death.
Queen Latifah was among the first to pay tribute. Taking to X (formerly Twitter), the actress, rapper, and singer called Stone a “genius,” sharing a nostalgic clip of him performing live. She praised his role in shaping funk music and encouraged fans to dive deeper into his life by watching Questlove’s recent documentary on Hulu and Disney Plus.
“RIP to Sly Stone. Innovator, funk aficionado, and frontman of Sly and The Family Stone,” she wrote. “If you want to learn about the musically profound and complex life of Sly Stone, Questlove recently released his documentary… Worth a watch to honor the genius behind Sly and the Family Stone and funk as we know it.”
Chuck D, the voice behind Public Enemy, also honored the late icon. He emphasized how important Questlove has been in preserving and showcasing Stone’s legacy for younger fans. “Rest In Beats SLY Stone,” he wrote. “And we should THANK @questlove of @theroots for keeping his FIRE blazing in this Century. 2 documentaries and book. GET EM.”
Stone wasn’t just a musician, he was a trailblazer. Known for blending soul, rock, and psychedelia, he created a sound that influenced artists across multiple generations. Songs like “Everyday People,” “Thank You (Falettinme Be Mice Elf Agin),” and “Family Affair” are considered cornerstones of funk and pop music history.
His family released a heartfelt statement confirming his death and celebrating his life. “Sly was a monumental figure, a groundbreaking innovator, and a true pioneer who redefined the landscape of pop, funk, and rock music,” the statement read. “His iconic songs have left an indelible mark on the world, and his influence remains undeniable.”
The family also revealed that Sly recently completed a screenplay about his life, which will be released in the future. This comes after his 2024 memoir, giving fans even more insight into his complex journey.
As fans revisit his classic hits and explore his life story through books and film, one thing’s clear, Sly Stone’s legacy isn’t going anywhere. He may be gone, but the sound and spirit he brought to the world continue to inspire and move people across the globe.
Sly Stone tribute isn’t just a reflection on one man’s career, it’s a reminder of how deeply music can change culture.
Jamie Wells has a knack for getting the inside scoop on Hollywood’s biggest stars and up-and-coming talent. With a sharp eye for industry trends and an ear for viral moments, Jamie covers everything from red-carpet events to behind-the-scenes drama in movies, TV, and celebrity culture.
