MONTGOMERY, Alabama, EE.UU. — The music world is mourning the loss of pioneering R&B singer Angie Stone, who tragically passed away at the age of 63 in a car accident in Alabama. Stone, a Grammy-nominated artist and member of the groundbreaking female hip-hop trio The Sequence, was best known for her soulful voice and hits like “Wish I Didn’t Miss You.” Her death has sparked an outpouring of tributes from fans, colleagues, and admirers across the globe, all celebrating her contributions to music and her enduring legacy.
Stone’s career spanned decades, during which she became a key figure in the neo-soul movement of the early 2000s. Her music resonated deeply with listeners, blending raw emotion, smooth melodies, and a connection to her roots in gospel. Just days before her death, Stone had expressed excitement about upcoming projects and performances, sharing with her followers on Instagram that she was eager to return to the stage and that many new developments were on the horizon. “You can see the big smile on my face,” she wrote, leaving fans hopeful for what was to come. Tragically, her life was cut short in a devastating car accident on Interstate 65 in Alabama, where the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter van she was traveling in overturned and was struck by a Freightliner truck. Stone was pronounced dead at the scene, while the driver and seven other passengers were taken to the hospital. Authorities are still investigating the cause of the crash.
The news of Stone’s passing sent shockwaves through the music and entertainment industries. Tributes poured in from across social media, with rapper MC Hammer sharing a video of her song “Brotha” and writing, “I can’t tell you how many days this song blessed my soul. Rest in peace, Angie Stone.” Actress and singer Jennifer Hudson also expressed her disbelief, describing Stone as “a true pioneer” and adding, “Another one of our great soul singers gone too soon. Prayers for her family and loved ones.” The NAACP Image Awards honored her legacy in a statement, calling her “a true pioneer, a moving storyteller, and a voice that helped shape the sound of R&B.” These heartfelt tributes underscored the profound impact Stone had on both her fans and her peers.
Angie Stone’s journey in music began in her hometown of Columbia, South Carolina, where she grew up in a church environment that deeply influenced her early career. She gained prominence as a founding member of The Sequence, the first all-female group signed to the pioneering hip-hop label Sugar Hill Records. The group’s 1979 single “Funk You Up” became a landmark in early rap music, later inspiring covers by artists like Dr. Dre. Stone’s success with The Sequence laid the foundation for her solo career, which flourished in the 2000s with hits like “No More Rain (In This Cloud)” and “Baby,” featuring soul legend Betty Wright. Her 2001 album Mahogany Soul peaked at No. 22 on the Billboard 200 chart, while 2007’s The Art of Love & War reached No. 11. These achievements cemented her status as a trusted voice in R&B and neo-soul.
Stone’s final performance took place just a day before her death at the Grand Ball of the Mobile Area Mardi Gras Association, where she captivated the audience with her talent and charm. Isadore B. Sims, president of the organization, remembered her as “nothing less than phenomenal,” noting that her presence elevated the event. “We will cherish the memories of her talent and warm spirit,” Sims said in a statement. “We never imagined it would be the last time we’d have the honor of witnessing her performance.” Stone was also scheduled to perform at the Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association men’s basketball championship game in Baltimore, where a moment of silence was held in her honor. Fans and admirers continued to share their memories of her performances, emphasizing her ability to connect with audiences through her music.
Beyond her music, Angie Stone was also remembered for her philanthropic efforts and advocacy. She was a member of the sorority Zeta Phi Beta, which released a statement praising her contributions to R&B and neo-soul while highlighting her work raising awareness for diabetes and her involvement in initiatives like “Caring for Seniors” and “Zetas Helping Other People Excel.” Reverend Bernice King, daughter of Martin Luther King Jr., also paid tribute to Stone, calling her “a soul sister” and writing, “It’s so heartbreaking. Rest well, soul sister. #AngieStone.” Actor and comedian Jamie Foxx expressed his disbelief at her passing, calling her an “incredible songwriter, incredible artist, and incredible person” and admitting, “I know they say God doesn’t make mistakes, but this hurts.”
Angie Stone’s legacy is one of resilience, passion, and a deep connection to her art. Her music continues to inspire fans across generations, and her contributions to R&B and neo-soul remain unparalleled. As the world says goodbye to this trailblazing artist, her songs, spirit, and the memories she created will live on, ensuring that her voice and legacy endure for years to come.
