2025 marks a painful year for soul and funk lovers. We said goodbye to artists who not only wrote classics but also shaped the language of black music—from the raw energy of funk to the warm depth of neo-soul. In this memoriam, we honor their legacy, their sound, and the records that continue to speak.
Angie Stone (1961–2025) — The black diamond of neo-soul
Angie Stone was one of the foundational voices of the neo-soul movement. She began her career with The Sequence, a pioneering female hip-hop group, and grew into a solo icon with timeless songs like No More Rain (In This Cloud) and Wish I Didn’t Miss You. Her work connected gospel roots with contemporary R&B—honest, vulnerable, and warm.
Listening recommendation (vinyl): Black Diamond (1999)
Sly Stone (1943–2025) — The architect of funk
As the leader of Sly & The Family Stone, Sly Stone rewrote the rules. His music was political, psychedelic, and danceable all at once, laying the foundation for funk, disco, and later hip-hop. Inclusivity and groove went hand in hand—a legacy that still resonates.
Listening recommendation (vinyl): There’s a Riot Goin’ On (1971)
Roy Ayers (1940–2025) — Sunlight in jazz-funk
With his vibraphone, Roy Ayers brought warmth and sophistication to jazz-funk and soul. Everybody Loves the Sunshine became a mantra for generations and one of the most sampled tracks in hip-hop and neo-soul. Ayers was the bridge between worlds.
Listening recommendation (vinyl): Everybody Loves the Sunshine (1976)
D’Angelo (1974-2025) - King of Neo-soul
American singer, multi-instrumentalist, and key figure in neo-soul. With albums like Brown Sugar and Voodoo he set a new standard for soul in the 21st century: raw, spiritual, and uncompromising.
Listening recommendation (vinyl): Everything
Sam Moore (1935–2025) — The voice of Southern soul
Together with Dave Prater, Sam Moore formed the legendary duo Sam & Dave. Their Stax classics—Soul Man, Hold On, I’m Comin’—are pure energy and defined Southern soul. Moore’s voice was powerful, urgent, and unforgettable.
Listening recommendation (vinyl): Sam & Dave’s Greatest Hits
Jellybean Johnson (1956-2025) - The groove of Minneapolis
As a member of The Time, Jellybean Johnson was a key player in the Minneapolis sound around Prince. Tight, funky, and irresistible—his rhythms shaped an entire scene that gave funk and R&B a futuristic glow.
Listening recommendation (vinyl): The Time (1981)
Their legacy lives on
These artists left us more than music: they gave voice to community, struggle, love, and joy. In record bins—on vinyl—their stories remain tangible. Play the records loud, share the knowledge, and keep their legacy alive.