March 2, 2025

Celebrating the Life and Legacy of Angie Stone

The world of music has lost a true icon with the passing of Angie Stone. Known for her soulful voice and trailblazing career, Angie Stone's impact on the music industry is immeasurable. Born Angela Laverne Brown on December 18, 1961, in Columbia, South Carolina, Angie Stone's journey to stardom began in the church, where she discovered her love for music.

Early Career and The Sequence

In the late 1970s, Angie co-founded the hip-hop trio The Sequence, making history with their 1979 hit "Funk You Up," one of the first rap songs recorded by a female group. The Sequence's success paved the way for future female hip-hop artists and solidified Angie's place in music history.

Transition to R&B and Solo Success

After her time with The Sequence, Angie transitioned to R&B in the early 1990s as part of the group Vertical Hold. The group's hit "Seems You're Much Too Busy" showcased Angie's powerful vocals and set the stage for her solo career. In 1999, she released her debut solo album, "Black Diamond," which featured the hit single "No More Rain (In This Cloud)" and earned her critical acclaim.

Neo-Soul Pioneer

Angie Stone was a key figure in the neo-soul movement of the late 1990s and early 2000s. Her second album, "Mahogany Soul," released in 2001, included the R&B anthem "Wish I Didn't Miss You" and further cemented her status as a neo-soul pioneer. Angie's music resonated with fans across generations, blending contemporary R&B, soul, hip-hop, and jazz.

Acting and Advocacy

Beyond her music career, Angie Stone also made her mark in acting, appearing in films such as "The Fighting Temptations" and TV shows like "Girlfriends". She was a devoted mother and a fierce advocate for Black music and women in entertainment. Angie's contributions to the industry were recognized with multiple Grammy nominations and Soul Train Music Awards.

A Lasting Legacy

Angie Stone's music was deeply personal, often reflecting her life experiences, love, and struggles. Her soulful voice and timeless hits will continue to inspire and resonate with fans for years to come. As we mourn her loss, we celebrate the incredible legacy she leaves behind—a legacy that has shaped the sounds of hip-hop, R&B, and neo-soul.

Rest in peace, Angie Stone. Your music and spirit will live on forever.