Sly Stone dead at 82: Funk legend during the 60s passes away as cause of death is revealed

Daily Mail​

3 days ago

The frontman for American funk legends Sly And The Family Stone has died at 82.
Sly Stone's family announced the influential musician's death in a statement released Monday.
They revealed that he had a prolonged battle with Chronic Obstructed Pulmonary Disease (COPD) which was complicated by other underlying health issues.
The artist's family wrote: 'It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved dad, Sly Stone of Sly and the Family Stone.
'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.'
His band Sly And The Family Stone is credited as one of the most influential bands in the development of funk, soul, R&B, rock and psychedelic music.
The statement 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.'
The family continued by revealing that those who are interested in reading about the life of the music legend can do by reading his memoir released last year.
The statement read: '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.
'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.'
His pioneering band was best known for their hits Dance To The Music, Everyday People, and Thank You (Falettinme Be Mice Elf Agin).
Sly And The Family Stone included two of his actual siblings - Freddie and Rose Stone - as they formed in San Francisco, California in 1966.
The artist was born Sylvester Stewart in Denton, Texas, in 1943 before his entire family moved out west.
His nickname Sly came when classmate had misspelled his name.
Then when he changed his stage surname from Stewart to Stone, his two siblings who were in his band also followed suit.
He had began performing in bands throughout high school before going on to study music at Solano Community College.
However, his music career began as he left school to work as a DJ for San Francisco radio station KSOL and worked with many emerging acts.
Then in 1966, he and his brother combined their bands. Sly's band was called Sly And The Stoners while Freddie's was named Freddie And The Stone Souls.
Of their decision to unite, Sly wrote in his 2023 memoir Thank You (Falettinme Be Mice Elf Agin): 'The band had a concept — White and Black together, male and female both, and women not just singing but playing instruments.
'That was a big deal back then, and it was a big deal on purpose.'
The band released their debut album - titled A Whole New Thing - in 1967. That same year they performed at he iconic Woodstock.
They enjoyed plenty of success until the 1970s when Sly's drug issues began to come to a head.
By 1975, his drug problems and interpersonal clashes led to dissolution but he remained with the band and continued to tour with a rotating lineup.
However, his drug problems forced his effective retirement in 1987.
Sly And The Family Stone were inducted into the Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame in 1993 but he kept his distance from the rest of the band.
Sly was married to model-actress Kathy Silva from 1974 to 1976 and separated after their son Sylvester Jr. was mauled by his dog.
He also two daughters: Sylvyette Phunne with Cynthia Robinson in 1976 and Novena Carmel whom he welcomed in 1982.