Questlove, the one behind “Sly Lives! (also known as the Burden of Black Genius)”, has honored the film’s subject, Sly Stone, just hours after the legendary musician passed away on Monday.
Stone passed away following a long struggle against chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and other pre-existing medical conditions, as his family announced on Monday. At the time of his death, he was 82 years old.
I’ve always held a deep admiration for Sly Stone, who was born as Sylvester Stewart. It’s with a heavy heart that I acknowledge his departure from this world today. The impact he made during his time here will resonate eternally within me. When his music first touched my ears in the early ’70s, it seeped into the very core of my being.
Sly was more than just a musical genius; he was an titan who revolutionized not only with The Family Stone, but also by infusing every note with radical inclusivity and raw human truths. His songs were about much more than fighting injustice; they were about personal transformation to change the world. He had the courage to be simple amidst complexity, using innocent joy, wordless cries, and nursery rhyme rhythms to express profound adult realities.
His work fearlessly confronted both the brightest and darkest aspects of life, urging us all to face our own truths head-on.
In “Sly Lives!”, a film that debuted earlier this year at the Sundance Film Festival, Questlove delved into more than just Sly Stone’s life and impact; he also examined the weight of success and the hurdles confronting African-American artists in the United States.
Indeed, Sly struggled with addiction and stepped away from the limelight, but he managed to survive longer than many of his followers. His influence can still be felt today through hip-hop remixes, documentaries, and his autobiography. However, nothing can compare to the raw brilliance of his original work. As I ponder over his legacy, two phrases echo in my mind: “We get what we deserve in this life,” a sentiment from the Sly Lives! documentary that seems both a caution and a fulfillment, and, of course, the timeless plea of ‘Everyday People’: ‘Let’s live together.’ A message that was once hopeful now sounds like an order. Sly’s music may resonate even more deeply with us now than it did before. Thank you, Sly. You will forever be remembered.
Despite frequent struggles with drug issues and sporadic absences, Stone significantly impacted the music scene through popular tunes such as “Everyday People,” “Dance to the Music,” “If You Want Me To Stay,” and “Hot Fun In The Summertime.” Moreover, Sly and the Family Stone were recognized by being inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1993.
Sly, thanks for lifting us higher,” Questlove wrote in conclusion. “Love to your family, friends, and everyone whose life you touched. All of your followers are excited to welcome you back.
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2025-06-10 01:24