Music Industry Mourns the Loss of a Legend
American R&B and soul singer Angie Stonehas tragically passed away at the age of 63. The music world is in mourning following reports that she was involved in a fatal road accident on Saturday, March 1.
According to sources, Stone was traveling in a Sprinter van with nine other people when it was struck by an 18-wheeler truck. The impact caused the vehicle to flip three times. CNN reported that the accident happened as Stone and her group were traveling from Mobile, Alabama, to Atlanta, Georgia, after a performance. Sadly, she was pronounced dead at the scene. Details about the condition of the other passengers have yet to be released.
Stone’s passing comes just days after the death of another music icon, Roberta Flack, further deepening the sense of loss in the R&B and soul community.
Angie Stone’s Career and Musical Legacy
Stone’s career spanned over four decades, and she made a significant impact on R&B, soul, and hip-hop. She first gained recognition in the late 1970s as a member of The Sequence, the first all-female rap group signed to Sugar Hill Records. Their hit “Funk You Up” was a pioneering track in the hip-hop genre.
In the early 1990s, Stone became part of the R&B trio Vertical Hold before launching her solo career. She signed with Arista Recordsand released her debut album, Black Diamond (1999), which was certified gold by the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA). The album included the hit single “No More Rain (In This Cloud).”
Stone continued to shape the music industry with albums like Mahogany Soul (2001), featuring the popular song “Brotha.” Over the years, she collaborated with D’Angelo, Prince, Macy Gray, and several other influential artists. Her work was recognized with three Grammy nominations, cementing her status as a legendary R&B artist.
Financial Struggles and Music Royalties
Despite her success, Stone recently opened up about her financial struggles. In a social media video, she revealed that she was not receiving her music royalties, claiming that Universal Music had taken what was rightfully hers.
“After 40-something years in the business, where are my royalties? I’m not getting them. Universal Music has been receiving all my royalties. They have taken all the money that was due to me,” she stated.
Stone expressed frustration that her earnings could have allowed her to retire 20 years agohad she been properly compensated. Her revelation sparked conversations about artist rights and fair pay in the music industry.
Acting Career and Influence Beyond Music
Beyond music, Stone also made her mark in acting. She appeared in films such as The Hot Chick (2002), The Fighting Temptations (2003), Pastor Brown (2009), and School Gyrls (2010). She also starred in Broadway productions like Chicago and participated in reality shows including VH1’s Celebrity Fit Club and TV One’s R&B Divas.
Her influence stretched beyond entertainment, inspiring generations of musicians and artists.
Survived by Family and Fans Worldwide
Angie Stone leaves behind a rich musical legacy. She is survived by her son Michael, daughter Diamond, and two grandchildren. Her passing is a heartbreaking loss for the music industry and her devoted fans across the world.
As tributes pour in, her impact on R&B, soul, and hip-hop remains undeniable. She will always be remembered as a pioneer, a soulful storyteller, and a powerful voice in music history.
Rest in peace, Angie Stone.