Angie Stone, born Angela Laverne Brown on December 18, 1961, in Columbia, South Carolina, was a trailblazer in the music industry. Her journey began in gospel music, inspired by her father, a member of a local gospel quartet. Angie’s passion for music led her to co-found the hip-hop trio *The Sequence* in the late 1970s, making history with their hit "Funk You Up," one of the first rap songs by an all-female group. In the 1990s, Angie transitioned to R&B, joining the group *Vertical Hold* before embarking on a solo career. Her debut album, *Black Diamond* (1999), introduced her soulful voice to the world, featuring hits like "No More Rain (In This Cloud)." She became a key figure in the neo-soul movement, alongside artists like Erykah Badu and Jill Scott. Her follow-up albums, including *Mahogany Soul* (2001) with the iconic track "Wish I Didn’t Miss You," solidified her place as a powerhouse in R&B and

soul music. Beyond music, Angie showcased her talents in acting, appearing in films like *The Fighting Temptations* and on Broadway in *Chicago*. She was also a devoted advocate for health awareness, particularly after her diagnosis with Type 2 diabetes. Tragically, Angie Stone passed away on March 1, 2025, at the age of 63, following a car accident in Alabama. She was traveling with her band when their van overturned and was struck by a semi-truck. Angie was the only fatality, while others sustained injuries. Her sudden passing has left a void in the music world, but her legacy lives on through her timeless music and the countless lives she touched. Angie Stone’s life was a testament to resilience, creativity, and the power of music to connect and heal. She will forever be remembered as a pioneer, a soulful voice, and an inspiration to generations. Rest in power, Angie Stone. Your music and spirit will continue to resonate.