Sly Stone, Pioneering Bandleader and Funk Virtuoso, Dead at 82
Briefly

Sly Stone, legendary performer and creator of Sly and the Family Stone, has died at the age of 82 after battling health issues. His family announced his passing with a heartfelt message, acknowledging both their grief and the lasting impact of his music. Born Sylvester Stewart in Texas, Stone's musical journey began in the Bay Area where he became a notable multi-instrumentalist and contributed to various music projects. He co-founded Sly and the Family Stone in 1966, pioneering a unique sound that blended different musical styles, shaping the landscape of music for generations.
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.
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.
In 1966, Stone and his brother Freddie chose to combine the bands they were each playing in at the time, birthing the first iteration of the Sly and the Family Stone.
Growing up in the Bay Area, he and his siblings began performing together at an early age. In 1952, they made their first recording, a gospel single.
Read at Consequence
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