Legendary musician Sly Stone breathes his last at 82

Sly Stone, founder of the band Sly and the Family Stone, passed away at the age of 82.

On Monday the eccentric frontman's family revealed in a statement that Stone. whose real name was Sylvester Stewart, died in died in Los Angeles after a long battle with lung disease.

"It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved dad, Sly Stone of Sly and the Family Stone," his family revealed in the statement

Revealing the cause of the singer-songwriter's death, his family said in Orbituray, "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," the statement continued.

"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," it concluded.

The music icon was the main driving force behind Sly and the Family Stone, a multiracial American band that is considered one of the most influential of all time.

It is pertinent to mention that a documentary named Sly Lives!, was made on Stone's rise and fall in music, which was released in 2025. The screenplay for his life story is also known as the Burden of Black Genius.