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As we’ve come to understand year after year, day after day even, death is unfortunately an inevitable part of life. Still, as much of a fact as that may be, the blow of experiencing loss never gets any easier, nor does reporting on the subject in Black culture.
Angie Stone, a trailblazing force in R&B, soul, and hip-hop, has passed away at the age of 63. Her representative confirmed that the singer-songwriter died in a tragic car accident early Saturday morning after leaving a performance in Montgomery, Alabama. The news has left family, friends, and fans devastated.
Stone’s illustrious career began with The Sequence, the first all-female hip-hop group signed to Sugar Hill Records. The group broke barriers in the late 1970s and early 1980s, releasing three albums and crafting the enduring hit “Funk You Up.” This iconic track was later sampled by artists like Bruno Mars in “Uptown Funk” and Dr. Dre’s “Keep Their Heads Ringin’.” Angie’s time with The Sequence established her as an innovator in music, helping pave the way for women in hip-hop.
Her solo career blossomed decades later, starting with her 1999 debut album Black Diamond. The album went gold in the U.S. and featured hits like “No More Rain (In This Cloud).” Two years later, she released Mahogany Soul, which included “Wish I Didn’t Miss You,” one of her most beloved songs. With her emotive voice and soulful storytelling, Stone became a defining figure in neo-soul, influencing countless artists.
Learn more below about who in our culture has passed away so far this year in 2025 Below
Rest In Power: Notable Black Folks Who We’ve Lost In 2025 was originally published on ioneblackamericaweb.staging.go.ione.nyc
1. Angie Stone
Angie Stone, iconic singer-songwriter, revolutionized music as a member of The Sequence and neo-soul pioneer. Her groundbreaking work in hip-hop and R&B leaves an enduring legacy in music and culture.
2. Dr. Alvin Poussaint
Dr. Alvin Poussaint studied the tendrils of systemic racism and Black self-sufficiency along with serving as a consultant to hit TV shows.
3. Chris Jasper
Chris Jasper, who played a key role in the Isley Brothers’ success in the 70s and 80s, passed away on Feb. 23 from cancer at age 73.
4. Roberta Flack
Born in Black Mountain, North Carolina, Flack’s musical talent was evident from a young age. She began studying piano at 9 and later earned a full scholarship to Howard University at just 15, becoming one of its youngest students. Her career soared when Clint Eastwood featured her rendition of “The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face” in his 1971 film Play Misty for Me. The emotional ballad became a chart-topping hit and earned her the Grammy Award for Record of the Year in 1973.
5. Gwen McCrae
Gwen McCrae, legendary soul and disco singer, known for her 1975 hit “Rockin’ Chair,”, passed away at 81.
6. Voletta Wallace
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The cause of death has been reported as natural causes, according to Monroe County Coroner Thomas Yanac.
7. Jerry “Iceman” Butler
Jerry initially gained fame as the lead singer of the R&B group The Impressions, a groundbreaking act that included iconic names like Curtis Mayfield. Together, they created influential tracks such as 1958’s “For Your Precious Love,” which Butler co-wrote and which became their defining hit.
8. Chelsea Reject
Chelsea Reject, born Chelsea Alexander, was a Brooklyn-based indie rapper known for her introspective lyrics and experimental artistry. Emerging in the 2010s, she gained recognition with her mixtape “Cmplx,” collaborating with members of Pro Era and sharing stages with artists like Mobb Deep and Talib Kweli. Her music often reflected themes of anxiety, self-discovery, and resilience, blending laid-back production with fiery energy.
Chelsea was also celebrated for her independent spirit, self-releasing projects like “This Is Not My Final Form” and touring internationally. Her work resonated with fans for its authenticity and emotional depth, making her a prominent figure in New York City’s underground rap scene.
9. Gene “Groove” Allen
Gene “Groove” Allen, a Hip-Hop pioneer and actor, gained fame as part of Groove B. Chill, known for their 1990 album Starting From Zero. He shone in cult classics House Party and its sequel, blending music and film.
10. Irv Gotti
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Irv Gotti, the influential record executive, producer, and entrepreneur best known for founding Murder Inc. Records, has passed away, The Hollywood Reporter confirmed Wednesday. The cause of his death remains undisclosed.
11. Retired Lt. Col. Harry Stewart, Jr
Stewart, Jr. was a retired U.S. Air Force officer and one of the legendary Tuskegee Airmen, the first African-American military aviators in the United States Armed Forces. Born on July 4, 1924, Stewart served during World War II as a fighter pilot in the 332nd Fighter Group, famously known as the “Red Tails.”
12. Reatha “Rose” Grey
Reatha “Rose” Grey was a member of the Retirement House and quickly became a viral TikTok sensation for her funny wit and zest for life. It was announced that she passed by her fellow friends, no cause of death was given.
13. Yolanda Halley
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Producer Yolanda Halley, passed away on Sunday, January 19, 2025
14. Barry Michael Cooper
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Journalist and author Barry Michael Cooper wrote the films New Jack City (1991) , Sugar Hill (1994) and Above the Rim (1994)
15. Former NBA All-Star Gus Williams
Williams received the nickname “The Wizard” for his dazzling ball-handling and quick drives. Over his career, Williams averaged 17.1 points, 5.6 assists and 2.0 steals per game with two All-Star selections and multiple All-NBA honors.
16. Actress Dalyce Curry
Dalyce Curry was an actress known for her role in “Blues Brothers.” She recently passed away at the age of 95 due to the Los Angeles wildfires. Her remains were found at her home in Altadena, California
17. Sam Moore
Born in Miami, Florida, in October 1935, Moore grew up immersed in gospel music, singing in church choirs before his path led him to rhythm and blues. His life changed in the early 1960s when he met Dave Prater at a Miami nightclub. Together, they formed Sam & Dave, and the pair quickly became a driving force in soul music. Signed to the legendary Stax Records, their partnership with the songwriting team of Isaac Hayes and David Porter resulted in some of the genre’s most enduring classics.
18. Singer, Brenton Wood
Born Alfred Jesse Smith in Shreveport, Louisiana, Wood’s family relocated to California, where his artistic talents blossomed. Drawing inspiration from legends like Sam Cooke, his unique blend of soulful vocals, piano-driven instrumentation, and playful lyrics brought a fresh vibrancy to the R&B genre. His work captured universal experiences of love, heartbreak, and connection, resonating deeply with listeners.
Wood rose to fame in the 1960s with hits like “The Oogum Boogum Song” and “Gimme Little Sign.”
