R&B singer and Neo-soul founder Angie Stone has passed way tragically, Media Take Out confirmed.
The music world is mourning the devastating loss of Angie Stone, the soulful singer and hip-hop pioneer, who tragically passed away in a car accident early Saturday morning in Montgomery, Alabama.
A Life and Career That Shaped Music
Angie Stone first rose to fame as a member of The Sequence, the groundbreaking all-female hip-hop trio that became the first female rap group signed to Sugar Hill Records in the late 1970s. The group, known for their funk-infused rap style, made a lasting impact with their hit single “Funk You Up”—a song that went on to influence future generations, being sampled in major hits like Bruno Mars’ “Uptown Funk” and Dr. Dre’s “Keep Their Heads Ringin’.”
After The Sequence disbanded, Stone reinvented herself as a solo artist in the late 1990s, becoming one of the most recognizable voices in neo-soul. Her debut album, Black Diamond, was released in 1999 and went gold in the U.S., solidifying her place in the industry. Two years later, she followed up with Mahogany Soul, which featured one of her most beloved songs, “Wish I Didn’t Miss You.” The track became an anthem of heartbreak and remains one of her most enduring and recognizable hits.
Beyond her musical achievements, Angie also dabbled in acting, appearing in films like The Hot Chick and Ride Along alongside Kevin Hart.
A Voice That Advocated for Music Legends
Angie was more than just a singer—she was an outspoken advocate for the pioneers of music. In one of her final interviews, she called out younger artists for not paying enough respect to the trailblazers who paved the way for them. She made it clear that today’s music industry stands on the foundation built by past legends, and she never hesitated to remind people of the contributions of old-school artists.
A Devastating Loss
Her sudden passing has left her friends, family, and fans in shock. According to her representative Deborah R. Champagne, Angie had just finished a performance in Montgomery, Alabama, when the fatal car accident occurred. Details of the crash remain unknown, and local authorities have yet to release further information.
Deborah shared that she had spoken to Angie just hours before the accident, making the news even more difficult to process.
Legacy and Surviving Family
Angie Stone is survived by her son Michael, daughter Diamond, and two grandchildren.
She was 63 years old.
Her influence on hip-hop, soul, and R&B will continue to inspire artists for years to come. The music industry has lost a true pioneer, but her legacy will live on through her timeless music and the generations of artists she influenced.
