Angie Stone passes away at 63 after car crash

Angie Stone passes away after fatal car crash 

Angie Stone, an influential singer, songwriter, and actress, has died at the age of 63. According to TMZ, she was involved in a fatal car accident in Montgomery, Alabama, early Saturday morning.

Stone was more than just a singer—she was a musical pioneer. From her early days as a member of the all-female hip-hop trio The Sequence to her celebrated career in R&B and neo-soul, she helped define multiple genres over the decades. Her music, often filled with deep emotion and powerful storytelling, continues to inspire artists and fans around the world.

Her passing marks the end of an era, but her influence will live on through the countless artists she inspired and the timeless music she left behind.

A Hip-Hop Pioneer: The Sequence and “Funk You Up”

Before Angie Stone became an R&B star, she made history as part of The Sequence, one of the first all-female hip-hop groups. Alongside Cheryl “The Pearl” Cook and Gwendolyn “Blondy” Chisolm, Stone helped pave the way for women in hip-hop during a time when the genre was still in its infancy.

In 1979, the group signed with Sugar Hill Records, the same label that launched The Sugarhill Gang and Grandmaster Flash & The Furious Five. That same year, they released Funk You Up, a song that would go on to influence hip-hop for decades.

The track was later sampled in Dr. Dre’s Keep Their Heads Ringin’ and Bruno Mars’ Uptown Funk, proving that its impact stretched far beyond the early days of hip-hop. Even in an era dominated by male MCs, Stone and The Sequence proved that women had a place in the movement.

Transitioning to R&B and Neo-Soul

Although Stone started in hip-hop, her powerful, smoky voice was always destined for more. She transitioned to R&B in the 1990s, first as part of the group Vertical Hold, which gained some recognition with the song Seems You’re Much Too Busy.

However, it was her solo career that truly cemented her status as an R&B legend.

Her debut album, Black Diamond (1999), introduced a new side of Angie Stone—one that blended R&B with the emerging neo-soul movement. The album featured No More Rain (In This Cloud), a deeply personal song that resonated with fans dealing with heartbreak and personal struggles.

The album went gold, establishing Stone as a key figure in neo-soul, alongside artists like Erykah Badu, Jill Scott, and D’Angelo.

Her rich, textured voice and heartfelt songwriting made her stand out, and she quickly became one of the defining voices of the genre.

Wish I Didn’t Miss You: A Timeless Classic

One of Stone’s most famous songs, Wish I Didn’t Miss You, remains an R&B staple even decades after its release. The track, from her 2001 album Mahogany Soul, was built around a sample of Back Stabbers by The O’Jays.

The song’s lyrics, which explore love, loss, and betrayal, struck a chord with listeners. Its emotional depth and timeless production helped it become a breakup anthem that still resonates with fans today.

Even years after its release, Wish I Didn’t Miss You remains one of the most played R&B songs of the 2000s, proving the lasting power of Stone’s music.

Behind the Scenes: Angie Stone’s Influence on Other Artists

While Stone’s solo career was impressive, her influence extended far beyond her own music. She played a crucial role in shaping the sound of other artists, particularly in the neo-soul movement.

One of her most notable collaborations was with D’Angelo, with whom she had both a professional and personal relationship. Stone was instrumental in the creation of his albums Brown Sugar and Voodoo, co-writing songs and helping him refine his sound.

She also collaborated with artists like Alicia Keys, Raphael Saadiq, and Lenny Kravitz, proving that her talents extended beyond just performing.

Many of today’s biggest R&B and soul artists, including Ari Lennox and Jazmine Sullivan, cite Stone as an influence, showing just how far her impact has reached.

Angie Stone’s Acting Career and Pop Culture Presence

Beyond music, Stone found success in acting. She appeared in films like The Fighting Temptations with Beyoncé and Ride Along with Kevin Hart.

She also took her talents to Broadway, playing the role of Matron “Mama” Morton in Chicago, a role that showcased her commanding stage presence.

In addition, Stone appeared on reality TV, starring in R&B Divas: Atlanta, where she gave fans a glimpse into the challenges of maintaining a music career over the years.

Her ability to transition between music, film, and television proved her versatility and cemented her status as an entertainer who could do it all.

Angie Stone’s Lasting Influence on Music

Even though Stone is no longer with us, her music will continue to inspire generations of artists and fans.

Her influence is still evident in today’s R&B and neo-soul landscapes. Artists like H.E.R., Summer Walker, and Snoh Aalegra have all drawn inspiration from the rich, emotive sound that Stone helped popularize.

Additionally, many of her songs continue to be sampled in hip-hop and R&B tracks, keeping her legacy alive in modern music.

Stone was more than just a singer—she was a storyteller. Her ability to capture raw emotion in her lyrics and deliver them with soul and authenticity made her one of the most respected artists in the industry.

Fans and Celebrities Pay Tribute

Following the news of her passing, tributes have been pouring in from fans, fellow artists, and celebrities.

Many have taken to social media to honor her contributions to music and the impact she had on their lives. While the loss of Angie Stone is heartbreaking, the love and respect she continues to receive show just how much she meant to the world.

Her influence spans generations, and her songs will continue to be played, covered, and celebrated for years to come.

A Final Goodbye to a Music Icon

Angie Stone’s passing is a tragic loss, but her music ensures that she will never be forgotten.

From her pioneering role in hip-hop with The Sequence to her reign as one of the most influential voices in R&B and neo-soul, she leaves behind an extraordinary legacy.

Her songs provided comfort, empowerment, and inspiration to millions. And while she may no longer be with us, her voice, her words, and her impact will live on forever.

Rest in peace, Angie Stone. Your music will never fade.