Sly Stone, who fronted the band Sly and the Family Stone, has died, aged 82, it’s been announced this week, with his family issuing a statement on the news of his death
Sly Stone has died, aged 82, following a series of health issues, his family have announced today. He’s said to have been surrounded by loved ones when he died.
The musician – whose real name was Sylvester Stewart – is best known for fronting the band Sly and the Family Stone, who rose to fame in the 1960s. The group’s history includes topping the charts and, years after disbanding, they were inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame back in 1993.
It’s been announced today that Sly died after a “prolonged battle” with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and other health issues. The news has been met with tributes following his family’s statement about Sly.
In a statement shared with the Mirror, his family said: “It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved dad, Sly Stone of Sly and the Family Stone. After a prolonged battle with COPD and other underlying health issues, Sly passed away peacefully, surrounded by his three children, his closest friend, and his extended family.”
They added that they will take comfort over his legacy continuing. They said: “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.”
His family continued: “Sly was a monumental figure, a groundbreaking innovator, and a true pioneer who redefined the landscape of pop, funk, and rock music. His iconic songs have left an indelible mark on the world, and his influence remains undeniable. In a testament to his enduring creative spirit, Sly recently completed the screenplay for his life story, a project we are eager to share with the world in due course, which follows a memoir published in 2024.”
They concluded in the statement: “We extend our deepest gratitude for the outpouring of love and prayers during this difficult time. We wish peace and harmony to all who were touched by Sly’s life and his iconic music. Thank you from the bottom of our hearts for your unwavering support.”
Sly is best known as a member of the funk band Sly and the Family Stone. The group, which formed in 1966, included his siblings Freddie Stone and Rose Stone, as well as other members like Cynthia Robinson, Greg Errico, Jerry Martini and bassist Larry Graham.
The group are known for songs like Everyday People, which topped the Billboard Hot 100 chart in the US following its release in 1968. Their other singles include Thank You (Falettinme Be Mice Elf Agin) and Family Affair, which topped the same chart, as well as Dance to the Music, which peaked at number 7 on the UK Singles Chart.
He was in the group from 1966 to 1975, when it disbanded. That same year, he released his debut solo album, High on You. More recently, he released his memoir Thank You (Falettinme Be Mice Elf Agin) in 2023.
The news of his death has prompted tributes on social media. One fan wrote on X: “RIP to Sly Stone. Innovator, funk aficionado, and frontman of Sly & The Family Stone.” Another said: “Rest in Peace to the legendary, trailblazing funk icon, Sly Stone!”
Another tribute read: “We are deeply saddened to hear of the passing of the legendary musical genius, Sly Stone. His influence on music and culture has been immeasurable, and his legacy will resonate for generations. You will be dearly missed.”
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