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Sly Stone, the funk pioneer who revolutionized pop, soul, and rock with his trailblazing group Sly & the Family Stone, has ed away at 82, leaving behind a thunderous legacy that shaped generations of music. The iconic frontman died peacefully after a prolonged battle with chronic lung disease, his family confirmed on June 9.
"It is with profound sadness that we announce the ing of our beloved dad," his family shared in a heartfelt statement. "Sly ed away peacefully, surrounded by his three children, his closest friend, and his extended family... His extraordinary musical legacy will continue to resonate and inspire for generations to come."
Born Sylvester Stewart in Denton, Texas, and raised in Vallejo, California, Stone began singing in church at just 4 years old, laying the foundation for a sound that would one day electrify the world.
A meteoric rise and a tragic fall
With hits like "Dance to the Music," "Everyday People," and "Thank You (Falettinme Be Mice Elf Agin)," Sly & the Family Stone didn't just dominate charts-they broke racial and gender barriers in the industry with their integrated lineup and genre-blending sound.
Sly's siblings, Rose and Freddie, were integral parts of the group, helping to turn family harmony into national anthems of unity and funk. But despite the group's meteoric rise, Stone's career was marred by drug abuse and erratic behavior that ultimately led to the band's breakup in the 1980s.
Still, his influence never waned. Even in his final years, the funk legend remained creatively driven. Just last year, Stone released his memoir, and in a final act of storytelling, he recently completed a screenplay for his life story-soon to be shared with the world.
An icon of pop culture
"Sly was a monumental figure, a groundbreaking innovator, and a true pioneer," the family wrote. "We wish peace and harmony to all who were touched by Sly's life and his iconic music."
Fans and artists across generations are now pouring out tributes, ing not just a musician, but a cultural force who made the world dance while demanding it come together.
From church choirs in Vallejo to global stages and now eternal legend-Sly Stone was, and always will be, the sound of everyday people.