The music world is mourning the loss of Grammy-nominated R&B singer Angie Stone, who tragically died in a car crash early Saturday morning. Stone, aged 63, was returning to Atlanta from Alabama when the accident occurred, marking a sudden end to the life of an influential artist who shaped the sounds of R&B and neo-soul across decades.
Tragic Accident on Interstate 65
Around 4 a.m., the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter van carrying Stone and her entourage overturned and was struck by a big rig on Interstate 65, south of Montgomery. Angie Stone was pronounced dead at the scene, according to the Alabama Highway Patrol. The other passengers were taken to Baptist Medical Center for treatment, with the cause of the crash still under investigation.
A Life of Musical Innovation
Angie Stone first rose to prominence as a member of The Sequence, the first all-female group on the pioneering hip-hop label Sugar Hill Records. Their song “Funk You Up” remains a significant part of hip-hop’s history, influencing countless artists and being sampled by names as big as Dr. Dre.
Following her success with The Sequence, Stone joined Vertical Hold before embarking on a solo career that would cement her as a key figure in the neo-soul movement of the early 2000s. Hits like “No More Rain (In This Cloud)” and “Wish I Didn’t Miss You” dominated the charts, with her unique voice and heartfelt lyrics resonating deeply with fans around the world.
Remembered for Her Passion and Talent
Stone’s impact extended beyond her music. She was known for her role as Big Mama Morton in the Broadway production of “Chicago,” and her appearances in films like “The Hot Chick” and “The Fighting Temptations.” Her openness about her personal struggles and triumphs, including her battles with health and weight, inspired many who watched her on shows like “Celebrity Fit Club” and “R&B Divas: Atlanta.”
CIAA Commissioner Jacqie McWilliams-Parker reflected on Stone’s influence, stating, “She used her incredible talent, passion, and presence to inspire and touch us with strength and hope.”
A Legacy of Strength and Soul
As the news of her passing spreads, tributes from fans and fellow artists are pouring in, each highlighting the profound loss felt by the music community. Stone’s children, Diamond and Michael Archer, expressed their heartbreak, emphasizing how unexpected and devastating their loss is.
Angie Stone’s legacy is not just in the music she made but in the barriers she broke and the lives she touched. Her contributions to music and culture will continue to influence and inspire, ensuring that her voice, style, and spirit will endure in the hearts of those who admired her.
As the community remembers Angie Stone, her story is a poignant reminder of the impact one artist can have on the world. Her journey from the stages of South Carolina to the global spotlight exemplifies the power of resilience and talent, making her passing a profound loss to music and to all who knew her spirit.