Funk Music Pioneer Sly Stone Dead at 82

Groundbreaking and influential singer, songwriter, and guitarist Sly Stone has died. He famously fronted the highly influential Sly and the Family Stone for nearly two decades. The group blended funk, soul, and psychedelic rock to create the sound that permeated a generation of music. Stone was 82 years old.

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Stone’s family released a statement confirming that he died earlier today (June 9) in his home. “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,” the statement read. “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.”

[RELATED: 5 Fascinating Facts About Sly Stone in Honor of the Funk/Soul/Rock Legend]

The statement also revealed that Stone had recently finished writing a screenplay for a film based on his life. They plan to bring the project to fruition “in due course.”

“We wish peace and harmony to all who were touched by Sly’s life and music. Thank you from the bottom of our hearts for your unwavering support,” Stone’s family wrote.

Sly Stone Battled COPD and Other Issues

According to an interview with The Guardian, Sly Stone received his COPD diagnosis in 2019. However, he had been dealing with breathing issues for years. He had been hospitalized after having difficulty breathing multiple times before being diagnosed. That diagnosis also came with a warning. “They told me that if I kept smoking, I would ruin my lungs or I might die,” he told the publication.

However, his chronic obstructive pulmonary disease wasn’t his only health issue. “I have trouble with my lungs, trouble with my voice, trouble with my hearing, and trouble with the rest of my body, too,” he said. He was also dealing with substance abuse disorder. His 2019 diagnosis inspired him to get clean. Turning over a new leaf allowed him to pen his memoir and the screenplay about his life.

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