Angie Stone, the legendary neo-soul singer and pioneering member of the all-female hip-hop group The Sequence, has passed away at 63.
Angie Stone’s representative, Deborah R. Champagne, confirmed she died in a car accident early Saturday after performing in Montgomery, Alabama. She was en route to Baltimore when the tragic crash occurred on Interstate 65 in Montgomery County. Her daughter, Diamond, also confirmed the heartbreaking news on social media.
“Angie Stone’s voice and legacy will forever inspire those she touched,” her publicist shared in a statement. Memorial details will be announced later.
Born in Columbia, South Carolina, Angie Stone (then Angie B) co-founded The Sequence in 1979 alongside Cheryl “the Pearl” Cook and Gwendolyn “Blondy” Chisolm. As the first female hip-hop act signed to Sugar Hill Records, the trio released “Funk You Up,” later influencing Dr. Dre’s “Keep Their Heads Ringin’” and sparking a legal battle over Mark Ronson and Bruno Mars’ “Uptown Funk.”
The Sequence disbanded in 1985, and Angie Stone continued performing in groups like Mantronix, Vertical Hold, and Devox. She later collaborated with neo-soul star D’Angelo, co-writing songs for his 1995 debut Brown Sugar. The two also shared a personal relationship, welcoming a son in 1998.
Angie Stone co-wrote several tracks for D’Angelo’s Voodoo album and worked with icons like Mary J. Blige and Prince protégé Jill Jones. In 1999, she launched her solo career with Black Diamond, featuring the chart-topping hit “No More Rain (In This Cloud).”
With ten studio albums, including 2023’s Love Language, Angie Stone’s impact on music was undeniable. She collaborated with Prince, Alicia Keys, Stevie Wonder, and Snoop Dogg. She also pursued acting, appearing in The Hot Chick, The Fighting Temptations, and Ride Along.
A week before her passing, Angie Stone excitedly spoke about upcoming film, television, and music projects. Her influence will live on through her timeless artistry.
