Sly Stone, musical visionary behind Sly and the Family Stone, dies at 82
Yes, it’s confirmed: Sly Stone—the trailblazing frontman of the iconic band Sly and the Family Stone—died on June 9, 2025, at age 82, following a long battle with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and other health complications
🎶 Legacy & Life Highlights
Born Sylvester Stewart on March 15, 1943, in Denton, Texas; raised in Northern California .Formed his genre-defying band Sly and the Family Stone in 1966, noted for its racially and gender-integrated lineup and eclectic blend of funk, rock, soul, R&B, and psychedelia Major hits included “Dance to the Music,” “Everyday People,” “Family Affair,” and **“Thank You (Falettinme Be Mice Elf Agin)Their electrifying 1969 Woodstock performance remains one of the era's defining live music moments Inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 1993, and honored at the 2006 Grammy tribute.
The 1971 album “There's a Riot Goin' On” reflected a darker tone and mirrored Stone’s escalating struggles with drug addiction Later years were marked by reclusiveness, legal and health battles, but he achieved sobriety in 2019 and published an acclaimed memoir, Thank You (Falettinme Be Mice Elf Agin), in 2023. A documentary by Questlove, Sly Lives!, also debuted in early 2025.Family & Final Moments .He passed away peacefully at home in Granada Hills, Los Angeles, surrounded by loved ones—including his three children, close friends, and extended family.His family shared:After a prolonged battle with COPD and other underlying health issues, Sly passed away peacefully… 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.
Sly Stone reshaped the landscape of popular music, dissolving racial and gender boundaries in his band, innovating funk with socially conscious lyrics, and influencing countless genres—from disco to hip‑hop to rock. His bold, inclusive spirit and musical genius will endure.
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