Last Updated on March 2, 2025 by Disha Rojhe
March 2, 2025: Angie Stone, the legendary R&B singer known for her powerful vocals and contributions to the music industry, has tragically passed away at the age of 63. The iconic artist, who was a co-founder of the groundbreaking hip-hop group The Sequence and later rose to prominence as a solo R&B star, was killed in a car crash involving an 18-wheeler on March 1, 2025. The news was confirmed by a representative for Stone, and her daughter, Ladi Diamond, shared the heartbreaking news on Facebook, writing, “My mommy is gone.”
Born Angela Laverne Brown on December 18, 1961, in Columbia, South Carolina, Stone’s musical journey began in her youth when she co-founded The Sequence with her high school friends, Cheryl Cook and Gwendolyn Chisolm. The trio, one of the first female hip-hop groups, made a mark on the music scene with their hit “Funk You Up” in 1979, which remains a classic in the genre. Their contribution to early hip-hop culture set the stage for Stone’s future success.
In the 1990s, Stone transitioned from hip-hop to R&B, first performing with the group Vertical Hold before embarking on a solo career. She released her debut album Black Diamond in 1999, featuring the hit single “No More Rain (In This Cloud).” The album’s success was followed by Mahogany Soul in 2001, which included her smash hit “Wish I Didn’t Miss You”—a song that became one of the most beloved classics in contemporary R&B.
Stone was not only a talented singer but also a skilled songwriter, working with top-tier artists such as D’Angelo, Alicia Keys, and Lenny Kravitz. Her influence on the music industry, both as a performer and a behind-the-scenes collaborator, cemented her place as one of R&B’s finest voices.
Beyond music, Stone ventured into film and television, appearing in reality shows like Celebrity Fit Club and R&B Divas: Atlanta, and had roles in movies such as The Hot Chick and The Fighting Temptations. In 2003, she made her Broadway debut in the musical Chicago, showcasing her versatility in the entertainment world.
Stone’s career was marked by significant achievements, including three Grammy nominations—Best R&B Performance by a Duo or Group with Vocals in 2003 and Best Female R&B Vocal Performance in 2004. Last year, she was honored with an induction into the Women Songwriters Hall of Fame, a testament to her enduring impact on the music industry.
Stone is survived by her daughter, Ladi Diamond, son, Michael (whom she shared with D’Angelo), and two grandchildren. Her passing has left a profound void in the world of music, and she will be remembered not only for her immense talent but also for her trailblazing contributions to hip-hop and R&B.
As fans and the music industry mourn the loss of a true icon, Angie Stone’s legacy will continue to resonate, inspiring future generations of artists and music lovers alike.
