Sly Stone, the frontman of the 1960s band Sly and the Family Stone, has passed away at age 82 after a long battle with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD).
15:57 ET, 09 Jun 2025Updated 16:49 ET, 09 Jun 2025
Sly Stone passes away at age 82(Image: Getty Images)
After a long battle with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), Sly Stone has passed away.
The frontman of Sly and the Family Stone had died at age 82. His family announced the news in a statement on Monday.
Along with COPD, the singer was also suffering from other underlying health conditions, which the family disclosed within their announcement. They started: “It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved dad, Sly Stone of Sly and the Family Stone. It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved dad, Sly Stone of Sly and the Family Stone.”
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“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.
Sly Stone passes away at age 82(Image: Getty Images)
They continued: “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.”
“Sly was a monumental figure, a groundbreaking innovator, and a true pioneer who redefined the landscape of pop, funk, and rock music,” the statement continued.
“His iconic songs have left an indelible mark on the world, and his influence remains undeniable.”
His family reminded fans that they can celebrate his legendary career by reading Sly’s book Thank You (Falettinme Be Mice Elf Agin): A Memoir. They also revealed the novel will be turned into some sort of production in the future.
His family shared: “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.”
Sly Stone founded his band Sly and the Family Stone in 1966(Image: Getty Images)
The moment fans heard of the news, they flocked to the singer’s Instagram to pay their respects.
One said: “Rip to a genius.”
“Fly high, Sly,” another wrote.
A third commented: “Rest in peace to my favorite singer ever.”
Sly’s family responded: “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.”
Sly and the Family Stone are often recognized as one of the most influential bands from the 1960s.
Their biggest hits included Everyday People, Dance to the Music, Family Affair, which hit number 1 on Billboard’s Hot 100 list.
One of Sly’s biggest career achievements included a special honor at the 2017 Grammy Awards. The singer was recognized with the Lifetime Achievement Award for his “critical role in the development of soul, funk, rock, and psychedelia.”