“A monumental figure, a groundbreaking innovator, and a true pioneer who redefined the landscape of pop, funk, and rock music”: Sly Stone, restlessly creative musical giant who led Sly and the Family Stone, dies at 82

Sly Stone leads Sly & the Family Stone onstage at White City Stadium in London on July 15, 1973.

Sly Stone, the visionary multi-instrumentalist, singer, and songwriter who led Sly and the Family Stone – in doing so helping to pioneer what would come to be known as funk music – has died at the age of 82, his family announced on social media.

“It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved dad, Sly Stone of Sly and the Family Stone,” the family's statement read. “After a prolonged battle with COPD [Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease] and other underlying health issues, Sly passed away peacefully, surrounded by his three children, his closest friend, and his extended family.