Angie Stone Angie Stone was more than a singer; she was a pioneering force in hip hop, helping craft celebrated albums while maintaining a deeply personal touch in her music.
Image: Angie Stone Instagram
The music world is left in mourning following the tragic passing of Angie Stone, a 63-year-old icon renowned for her remarkable contributions to soul and R&B.
The songstress tragically succumbed to injuries sustained in a fatal car accident on Saturday, March 1, in Montgomery, Alabama, while travelling home from a performance. Her death has sparked an outpouring of heartfelt tributes, highlighting the indelible mark she left on the industry and the generations of artists she inspired.
Born Angela Laverne Stone in Columbia, South Carolina, Stone began her artistic journey in the 1970s as a member of the hip hop group Sequence. However, her solo career became the canvas that showcased her powerful voice and evocative songwriting, earning her a special place in the hearts of fans. With the release of her debut album “Black Diamond” in 1999, Stone established herself as a tour de force in music, garnering critical acclaim and numerous prestigious awards.
The album was a game-changer, featuring timeless tracks like “No More Rain (In This Cloud)”, which solidified her ability to blend heartfelt lyrics with infectious grooves. A master of reinvention, Stone seamlessly bridged the gap between old-school soul and contemporary sounds, collaborating with a diverse array of artists while staying true to her essence. This constant evolution ensured her music remained vital and resonant well into the new millennium.
Fellow musicians and fans have taken to social media to express their admiration and sorrow. Artists such as MC Hammer, Anthony Hamilton, and Jennifer Hudson have shared heartfelt messages celebrating Stone’s legacy. MC Hammer, sharing a touching video featuring Stone’s track “Brotha”, wrote: “I can’t tell you how many days this song blessed my soul. RIP Angie Stone.” Jennifer Hudson reflected on the profound loss, stating: “What a loss!!! Angie Stone was a true pioneer. Another one of our great soul singers has gone too soon. Prayers up for her family and loved ones!”
Syleena Johnson shared an emotional post laden with memories, revealing the pain of her friend’s passing and expressing her heartbreak: “I know you are with the king. I am devastated… you now have the peace you have always deserved.” These sentiments encapsulate the sheer depth of Stone’s influence - a powerful reminder that her music provided solace, strength, and joy during life’s most challenging moments.
Throughout the late 1990s and early 2000s, Stone’s tracks became the anthems of many, often outshining the films they supported. Her artistry was not just limited to her albums; she also lent her velvety voice to the theme song of the beloved television series “Girlfriends”.
Even as the mainstream spotlight dimmed for R&B artists, Stone continued to shine brightly, releasing new works like “2 Bad Habits” in 2015 that kept her sound fresh and captivating.
She was more than a singer; Stone was a pioneering force in hip hop, helping craft celebrated albums while maintaining a deeply personal touch in her music. Whether as a fierce Auntie dishing out wisdom or as a supportive mentor whispering encouragement through her lyrics, Stone’s voice was a constant presence in the lives of her listeners, embodying strength and resilience.
Here are other of our favourite Angie Stone songs: