Celebrating the Legacy of Soul Diva Angie Stone
Angie Stone, the renowned R&B and soul singer, tragically passed away at the age of 63 in a car accident. The incident occurred early on a Saturday morning 01-03-2025 in Montgomery, Alabama, following a performance. Reports indicate that her vehicle overturned and was subsequently struck by a larger vehicle.
Stone's illustrious career spanned decades, beginning with her role in the pioneering hip-hop trio The Sequence, known for their hit "Funk You Up." She later achieved solo success with albums like *Black Diamond* and iconic songs such as "Wish I Didn't Miss You." Beyond music, she also ventured into acting and was celebrated for her contributions to neo-soul.
Her passing has deeply affected fans and the music community, leaving behind a legacy of soulful artistry. She is survived by her two children and grandchildren.
Introduction to Angie Stone's Musical Journey
Angie Stone, a name synonymous with soul and R&B, has cemented her place as one of the most influential figures in contemporary music. With a career spanning several decades, she has not only enriched the music industry with her distinctive voice but has also inspired countless artists. Her journey is a testament to her talent, resilience, and unwavering dedication to her craft.
The Early Days and Rise to Fame
Angie's musical journey began in the late 1970s when she joined the hip-hop trio The Sequence. This pioneering all-female group was one of the first to emerge in the hip-hop scene, and their hit "Funk You Up" laid the groundwork for Angie's future successes. Her transition from hip-hop to soul and R&B showcased her versatility and deep-seated passion for music.
The Sequence, the pioneering all-female hip-hop trio, consisted of:
1. **Angie Stone** (known as Angie B during her time in the group)
2. **Cheryl Cook** (also known as Cheryl "The Pearl")
3. **Gwendolyn Chisolm** (nicknamed Blondie)
These three high school friends from Columbia, South Carolina, made history as one of the first female rap groups to sign with a major label, Sugar Hill Records.
Throughout the 1980s and 1990s, Angie continued to evolve as an artist. She collaborated with numerous artists and contributed to various musical projects, gradually building a name for herself in the industry. Her unique blend of soul, R&B, and hip-hop elements became her signature style, setting her apart from her contemporaries.
Here are some notable songs by The Sequence during their time with Sugar Hill Records:
1. **"Funk You Up"** (1979) - Their iconic debut single and a groundbreaking hit.
2. **"Monster Jam"** (1980) - A collaboration with Spoonie Gee.
3. **"Funky Sound (Tear the Roof Off)"** (1981) - A remake of Parliament's classic.
4. **"I Don't Need Your Love (Part One)"** (1982) - Another charting single.
5. **"Simon Says"** (1982).
6. **"Here Comes the Bride"** (1982).
7. **"I Just Want to Know"** (1983).
8. **"Funk You Up '85"** (1984).
9. **"Control"** (1985).
Their music blended hip-hop, funk, and rap, leaving a lasting impact on the genre.
The Breakthrough Album: Black Diamond
Angie Stone's solo career took off with the release of her debut album, Black Diamond, in 1999. The album was a commercial success, earning her critical acclaim and a dedicated fan base. Featuring hit singles like "No More Rain (In This Cloud)," Angie’s powerful vocals and heartfelt lyrics resonated with audiences worldwide.
The success of Black Diamond marked a pivotal moment in Angie's career, establishing her as a force to be reckoned with in the music industry. She continued to build on this momentum with subsequent albums, each showcasing her growth as both an artist and a storyteller.
Impact on Soul and R&B Music
Angie Stone's contribution to soul and R&B extends beyond her chart-topping hits. Her authentic and emotive storytelling has paved the way for many artists who have followed in her footsteps. She has been instrumental in bridging the gap between traditional soul music and contemporary R&B, creating a sound that is both timeless and modern.
Her influence can be seen in the works of numerous artists who cite her as an inspiration. Angie's ability to connect with listeners through her music has left an indelible mark on the industry, ensuring that her legacy will endure for generations to come.
Life Beyond Music: Acting and Advocacy
In addition to her musical achievements, Angie Stone has also made significant contributions as an actress and advocate. She has appeared in various films and television shows, further showcasing her versatility and talent. Angie's dedication to her craft extends beyond performance; she is also an advocate for numerous social causes, using her platform to raise awareness and effect positive change.
Her commitment to empowering others is reflected in her philanthropic efforts and community involvement. Whether through music or activism, Angie's influence continues to inspire and uplift those around her.
Celebrating a Timeless Legacy
As we celebrate the legacy of soul diva Angie Stone, it's important to acknowledge the profound impact she has had on the music industry and beyond. Her contributions have shaped the landscape of soul and R&B, earning her a rightful place among the greats. With a career filled with remarkable achievements and an unwavering dedication to her craft, Angie Stone remains a beacon of inspiration for aspiring artists worldwide.
Her journey serves as a reminder that true artistry is about more than just talent; it's about passion, resilience, and the ability to touch lives through music. As we look back on her illustrious career, we celebrate not only the artist but also the woman who has touched so many hearts.
Here’s a list of Angie Stone’s studio albums along with their release years:
1. **Black Diamond** (1999)
2. **Mahogany Soul** (2001)
3. **Stone Love** (2004)
4. **The Art of Love & War** (2007)
5. **Unexpected** (2009)
6. **Rich Girl** (2012)
7. **Dream** (2015)
8. **Covered in Soul** (2016)
9. **Full Circle** (2019)
10. **Love Language** (2023)
Angie Stone received several accolades throughout her career, including:
1. **Soul Train Lady of Soul Awards**: She won two of these prestigious awards,
2. **Grammy Nominations**: She was nominated for three Grammy Awards, including Best Female R&B Vocal Performance in 2005 for her song "U-Haul".
3. **Soul Music Icon Award**: She was honored with this award at the Black Music Honors in 2021.
Angie Stone appeared in several films and TV shows throughout her career. Here are some notable ones:
1. **The Hot Chick** (2002) - Played Madame Mambuza.
2. **The Fighting Temptations** (2003) - Portrayed Alma.
3. **Ride Along** (2014) - Appeared as a Market Shopper.
4. **Pastor Brown** (2009) - Played a supporting role.
5. **School Gyrls** (2010) - Featured in this musical comedy.
6. **Entanglement** (2021) - Her final film role as Sade.
She also made her stage debut in the Broadway musical *Chicago* as Big Mama Morton and appeared in reality TV shows like *Celebrity Fit Club* and *R&B Divas: Atlanta*.
What you see is what you get. What you hear is who I am.
Angie Stone