Angie Stone, the renowned soul and R&B artist known for hits like “No More Rain (In This Cloud)” and “Wish I Didn’t Miss You,” tragically passed away on Saturday morning following a vehicle accident, her longtime publicist, Yvonne Forbes, confirmed to CNN.
The singer was 63 years old.
According to Forbes, Stone had performed in Mobile, Alabama, on Friday and was traveling to Atlanta, Georgia, with nine others in a Sprinter van when the accident occurred. However, further details regarding those injured in the crash have not yet been disclosed.
A statement released by her representative expressed sorrow over her passing, saying, “Angie Stone’s voice and legacy will continue to resonate in the lives of those she inspired. Information about her memorial services will be shared by the family at a later time.”
Born in Columbia, South Carolina, Stone’s journey in the entertainment industry spanned four decades, beginning in the late 1970s as a member of The Sequence, a pioneering all-female rap group best known for their hit “Funk You Up.” She later transitioned to neo-soul and R&B, launching a successful solo career with albums such as “Black Diamond” in 1999 and “Mahogany Soul” in 2001.
During a 2020 interview with The Breakfast Club, Stone reflected on her career path and ability to succeed across multiple musical genres before cross-genre appeal became widespread.
“I taught myself everything. I was determined, eager, and full of ambition,” she shared. “I had the mindset of a rubber band—you can stretch me, but I won’t break. No matter what, I will always stay true to myself.”
Stone earned her first Grammy nomination for “More Than a Woman,” a song from Mahogany Soul, in the category of Best R&B Performance by a Duo or Group with Vocals. She later received another nomination in 2004 for “U-Haul,” a track from her third album “Stone Love,” in the Best Female R&B Vocal Performance category. Her final Grammy recognition came in 2007 for “Baby,” a song from her fourth album “The Art of Love & War.”
Beyond music, Stone also made a name for herself in acting, amassing over 40 screen credits. She appeared in various well-known projects, including the television series “Girlfriends,” for which she also performed the theme song, and “Moesha,” alongside Brandy Norwood. Her film roles included appearances in “The Hot Chick,” “Scary Movie V,” and “Ride Along.” At the time of her passing, she had one film, “Abused,” in post-production.
Just weeks before her untimely death, Stone reflected on her career and future aspirations in a heartfelt social media post.
“I’ve been in this industry for 50 years. My first solo album came out 25 years ago. Over the years, I’ve dedicated myself to my craft,” she wrote on Instagram. “God blessed me with this gift, and I’ve shared it with the world. Even now, I ask my creator what’s next because I still have so much more to give.”
Stone is survived by her son, Michael D’Angelo Archer II, whom she shared with fellow singer D’Angelo. Following in his parents’ footsteps, Michael, known by his stage name Swayvo Twain, has also pursued a career in music.