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A timeline of Sly Stone’s career in 10 essential songs

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Sly Stone’s influential music career spanned an impressive six years, from late 1967 to late 1973. During this brief but impactful period, he shaped the musical landscape of the future. Known as a singer, songwriter, producer, and fashion trendsetter, Stone passed away at the age of 82 on Monday. Before achieving fame, he honed his skills as a DJ in San Francisco. He then assembled The Family Stone, a unique band that combined races, featuring both men and women. This groundbreaking group blurred the boundaries between funk, R&B, pop, and psychedelic rock. Their music has left a lasting impact on numerous artists, including Prince, Red Hot Chili Peppers, Outkast, and The Roots. Additionally, Stone’s songs have been extensively sampled in hip-hop, making them an essential part of the genre’s heritage. Here is a list of 10 of his most essential recordings, arranged in the order they were released.

‘Dance to the Music’ (1967)

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It’s reported that Stone disliked his popular debut single, which he supposedly produced under Clive Davis’ instruction after the executive requested a more commercial track following the underwhelming reception of “A Whole New Thing,” the band’s first album. Despite being six decades old, “Dance to the Music” continues to convey an atmosphere of unrestrained happiness – yet hints at some reservations about being overly cheerful and friendly. In the song’s bridge, trumpeter Cynthia Robinson expresses this sentiment by shouting, “Squares, leave the party!

The phrase ‘Different strokes for different folks,’ originating from the song ‘Everyday People’ by Sly and the Family Stone, has left a lasting impact in popular culture. This laid-back saying encapsulates a harmonious message of understanding diversity, complemented by Larry Graham’s distinctive one-note bass line. Twenty-four years later, Arrested Development revived the rhythm of ‘Everyday People,’ making it popular once more.

‘Sing a Simple Song’ (1968)
Funk as pure — and as low-down — as funk gets.

As a devoted admirer, I can’t help but express my awe over Stone’s groundbreaking rhythmic advancements. However, it’s challenging to put into words the depth of his innovations. Yet, one particular track from his 1969 album, a timeless masterpiece that now resides in the Library of Congress’ National Recording Registry, stands out as his most remarkable harmonic accomplishment. The key change in the verse gives the song a poignant tinge of melancholy, enhancing its powerful message of protest.

Music

Back in March of 1975, a seasoned R&B ensemble unveiled their album titled ‘That’s the Way of the World’. Here’s why this record continues to resonate.

The song titled ‘Take You Higher’ (released in 1969) was initially issued as the backup track for the “Stand!” single. However, it later became a standout performance during the Family Stone’s set at Woodstock. This psychedelic blues-rock number, delivered around 4 am, was an intense blend of brass instruments and wah-wah sounds, creating a powerful impact on the audience.

‘Thank You (Falettinme Be Mice Elf Again)’ (1969) was Stone’s second chart-topper, and it’s still recognized by many listeners today, even those born long after its release. Two iconic guitar riffs from this song have been reused in popular tracks. For instance, Janet Jackson sampled its pulsating riff for “Rhythm Nation” in 1989, while Brandy used Graham’s original slap-bass part in “Sittin’ Up in My Room” in 1995.

Titled ‘Everybody Is a Star,’ this mid-tempo track sparkles with powerful vocal performances from Stone, Graham, and his siblings Rose and Freddie. However, it’s Rose Stone who almost outshines them all in her performance.

‘Family Affair’ (1971)

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Stone’s 1971 album “There’s a Riot Goin’ On” is often seen as a shift towards a more somber style, influenced by the artist’s drug experiences and political disenchantment. However, the rough, weary tone of his voice in the album’s lead single hints at better days past. Yet, the innovative music found in “Family Affair,” which held the top spot on the Hot 100 for three weeks – contributing to “Riot” becoming Stone’s sole No. 1 on Billboard’s album chart – demonstrates that his creative spirit remained undiminished: It’s a remarkable example of experimental R&B, featuring Billy Preston on organ, Bobby Womack on guitar and an early drum machine creating a unique funk rhythm. The music is both beautiful and ominous.

If you want to keep me around, you can’t take me for granted (1973) could be rephrased as: “To ensure my continued presence, don’t underestimate me and wait for days to hear from me.” The song, released in 1973 when Stevie Wonder was rising as the foremost soul music innovator, reflects Stone’s struggle by the mid-1970s. The lyrics seem to be a veiled threat that he might quit the industry if it fails to value him appropriately (“You can’t assume I’ll stick around and ignore your calls / Because I’m telling you I’ll disappear for a while.”). It’s intriguing – or perhaps ironic – how liberated he sounds in this warning.

1973 version of the popular tune ‘Que Sera, Sera (Whatever Will Be, Will Be)’ sung with a wise and worldly tone by a man well-versed in life’s mysteries.

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2025-06-10 20:01

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