Sly Stone has died aged 82, from continual pulmonary illness.
In a put up on his official web site his household wrote, “It’s with profound disappointment that we announce the passing of our beloved dad, Sly Stone of Sly and the Household Stone. After a chronic battle with COPD and different underlying well being points, Sly handed away peacefully, surrounded by his three kids, his closest buddy, and his prolonged household. Whereas we mourn his absence, we take solace in understanding that his extraordinary musical legacy will proceed to resonate and encourage for generations to come back.
“Sly was a monumental determine, a groundbreaking innovator, and a real pioneer who redefined the panorama of pop, funk, and rock music. His iconic songs have left an indelible mark on the world, and his affect stays plain. In a testomony to his enduring inventive spirit, Sly just lately accomplished the screenplay for his life story, a undertaking we’re wanting to share with the world in the end, which follows a memoir revealed in 2024.
“We lengthen our deepest gratitude for the outpouring of affection and prayers throughout this troublesome time. We want peace and concord to all who had been touched by Sly’s life and his iconic music.
“Thanks from the underside of our hearts in your unwavering help.”
A number of tributes have since been paid by fellow musicians, together with Questlove, who directed the documentary Sly Lives! (aka The Burden of Black Genius). Writing on his Instagram account, The Roots drummer mentioned:
“Sly was an enormous — not only for his groundbreaking work with the Household Stone, however for the unconventional inclusivity and deep human truths he poured into each observe,” he started. “His songs weren’t nearly combating injustice; they had been about reworking the self to remodel the world. He dared to be easy in probably the most complicated methods — utilizing childlike pleasure, wordless cries, and nursery rhyme cadences to precise grownup truths.
“All of you disciples shall be geeked to obtain you.”
Additionally on Instagram, Chaka Khan referred to as Stone “a real innovator and pioneer of funk who reshaped music and tradition”. “His work with Sly & the Household Stone broke limitations – bringing collectively races, genders, and genres with daring sound and unapologetic pleasure,” she added.
Different tributes got here from The Waterboys‘ Mike Scott: “Journey on effectively SLY STONE 1943-2025, singer, songwriter, musical director, producer, frontman, funkster, pioneer, genius. Thankyou for all of the inspiration, for breaking floor so others may comply with and for being the sassiest, funkiest Being on planet earth.”
