Angie Stone, the legendary singer-songwriter and pioneering force in R&B, neo-soul and hip-hop, has passed away at the age of 63, according to multiple sources.
The acclaimed recording artist was involved in a fatal car crash early Saturday morning, March 1, 2025, in Montgomery, Alabama. Stone, whose career spanned over four decades, was revered for her rich, smoky contralto, empowering lyrics, and deep commitment to uplifting Black culture through music.
Born Angela Laverne Brown on December 18, 1961, in Columbia, South Carolina, Stone first made her mark as part of The Sequence, one of hip-hop’s earliest all-female groups. The group gained prominence with their hit single “Funk You Up,” which played a pivotal role in the burgeoning hip-hop scene. In the early 1990s, she became part of the R&B trio Vertical Hold.
Stone’s 1999 solo debut, Black Diamond, arrived at a pivotal moment in music. It contributed to the rise of the neo-soul movement, a genre that blended classic soul influences with contemporary R&B, jazz, and hip-hop elements.
Emerging alongside artists like Erykah Badu, D’Angelo, and Maxwell, Stone’s music stood out for its deep-rooted connection to the vintage sounds of 1970s soul while offering a fresh, modern perspective.
Black Diamond exemplified neo-soul’s emphasis on live instrumentation, heartfelt storytelling, and introspective lyricism. Tracks like “No More Rain (In This Cloud)” and “Everyday” embody themes of love, overcoming adversity, and emotional resilience.
As one of the defining voices of the era, Stone helped bridge the gap between classic soul and contemporary R&B, solidifying neo-soul as a lasting and influential genre.
Her 2001 follow-up, Mahogany Soul, solidified her as a leading voice in the neo-soul movement. The album included “Wish I Didn’t Miss You,” one of her most recognizable songs, built around a sample of The O’Jays’ “Back Stabbers.”
More than just a singer, Stone was a musical activist, using her platform to uplift and celebrate Black men and women. Her 2001 anthem “Brotha” was a heartfelt tribute to Black men, recognizing their struggles while celebrating their resilience. “He’s misunderstood, some say that he’s up to no good,” she sang, challenging negative stereotypes and offering words of encouragement.
Throughout her career, Stone earned multiple accolades, including three Grammy nominations for Best R&B Performance, two Soul Train Lady of Soul Awards, and the 2021 Soul Music Icon Award.
In 2023, Stone released what would become her final studio album, Love Language, via Conjunction Entertainment/SRG-ILS Group.
The album included the singles “Kiss You” and “The Gym” featuring Musiq Soulchild. It also included a collaboration with her son SwayvoTwain (born Michael D’Angelo Archer II), who appeared on “Old Thang Back.”
Stone was also a passionate advocate for health and wellness, particularly focusing on diabetes awareness after her own diagnosis. She used her platform to promote self-care, empowerment, and positive lifestyle changes. Stone also supported various community initiatives, inspiring others to lead healthier, more fulfilling lives.
Stone’s legacy extends beyond chart success. She was a storyteller, an advocate, and a keeper of the soul tradition. Her music will continue to inspire generations, offering messages of hope, resilience, and self-worth. She is survived by her children, Michael and Diamond, and two grandchildren.