Grammy-nominated R&B artist Angie Stone, a trailblazer in the music industry, tragically passed away following a vehicular accident on her journey back to Atlanta from Alabama. Her untimely death at the age of 63 has left fans and colleagues devastated. The incident occurred early Saturday morning when the vehicle she was traveling in overturned on Interstate 65, south of Montgomery, and was subsequently struck by a large truck. While others in the vehicle survived, Stone was pronounced dead at the scene. Her passing has sent shockwaves through the music community, highlighting her immense contributions to R&B and hip-hop.
A Devastating End to a Journey Home
The circumstances surrounding Angie Stone's tragic demise have left many in disbelief. Early Saturday morning, around 4 AM, the vehicle transporting Stone and several others overturned on Interstate 65, approximately five miles south of Montgomery. Following the rollover, a large truck collided with the overturned van. This fatal sequence of events resulted in Stone being declared deceased at the crash site, while the other occupants were taken to Baptist Medical Center for treatment. The suddenness of this tragedy has left both her family and the music world reeling from the loss.
Stone's manager, Walter Millsap III, shared that he learned of the heartbreaking news from her daughter, Diamond, and longtime collaborator Blondy. He expressed profound sorrow over the unexpected turn of events, emphasizing that no words could adequately convey the depth of their grief. The news spread quickly, with tributes pouring in from across the industry, underscoring Stone's enduring impact on R&B and hip-hop. The Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association (CIAA) Men’s Championship basketball game, where Stone was scheduled to perform, observed a moment of silence in her honor, reflecting the respect and admiration she commanded.
A Musical Journey and Lasting Impact
Born in Columbia, South Carolina, Angie Stone's musical journey began at a young age, singing in church. By the time she was sixteen, she had already made history as a member of The Sequence, the first all-female rap group signed to Sugar Hill Records. The group's hit single "Funk You Up" became a cultural touchstone, sampled by numerous artists including Dr. Dre. Stone's versatility allowed her to transition seamlessly between groups like Vertical Hold and eventually into a successful solo career. Her powerful voice and emotive performances earned her critical acclaim and a dedicated fan base.
Stone's career milestones include chart-topping hits such as "No More Rain (In This Cloud)," which dominated Billboard’s Adult R&B chart for ten weeks. Collaborations with other legendary artists, like Betty Wright on "Baby," further solidified her status as a musical force. In 2000, Stone joined J Records, a label founded by Clive Davis, which also launched the careers of Alicia Keys and D'Angelo. Despite the dissolution of J Records in 2011, Stone's influence remained undiminished. Her legacy as an inspirational figure who used her talent to uplift and inspire continues to resonate deeply within the music community and beyond.