Sly Stone Dies at 81: Funk Pioneer and Music Icon Remembered

Sly Stone, the trailblazing artist who reshaped the sound of American music with his genre-bending band Sly and the Family Stone, has passed away at the age of 81. The news was confirmed by his family and representatives on June 9, 2025, sparking an outpouring of tributes across the music world.

Born Sylvester Stewart in Denton, Texas, in 1943, Sly Stone grew up in a deeply religious household before diving into the San Francisco music scene in the 1960s. In 1966, he formed Sly and the Family Stone, a racially integrated, gender-diverse group that quickly rose to fame with hits like Everyday People, Dance to the Music, and Thank You (Falettinme Be Mice Elf Agin).

Their innovative blend of funk, soul, rock, and psychedelia not only defined a generation but also laid the groundwork for numerous genres, including hip-hop and modern R&B. With his flamboyant costumes, electrifying stage presence, and socially conscious lyrics, Stone became a cultural icon.

Despite his groundbreaking success, Stone’s life was marked by turbulence. The 1970s brought struggles with addiction, financial difficulties, and legal disputes that derailed his career. He became increasingly reclusive in later decades, though his influence remained ever-present.

In 2023, Stone released his memoir, Thank You (Falettinme Be Mice Elf Agin), offering an honest look into his musical genius and personal demons. The book sparked renewed interest in his life and work, leading to a short tribute tour and a documentary currently in production.

Artists from Prince and Michael Jackson to Kendrick Lamar have cited him as a key influence—today’s stars like Anderson. Paak, D’Angelo, and Bruno Mars continue to echo his sonic legacy.

The cause of death has not been officially disclosed, but Stone had been dealing with chronic health issues in recent years.

Fans, fellow musicians, and public figures have flooded social media with tributes. Lenny Kravitz wrote, “Sly changed the game. There was music before Sly and music after him — it’s that simple.”

As the world mourns one of the most innovative figures in 20th-century music, Sly Stone’s legacy will undoubtedly live on through his timeless catalog and the countless artists he inspired.

“I want to take you higher!” — and indeed, he did.