The Sum Up: In Memoriam: Angela Laverne Brown aka Angie Stone

The Sum Up: In Memoriam: Angela Laverne Brown aka Angie Stone  

On March 1, 2025, the music world mourned the loss of Angie Stone, a trailblazer in the realms of hip-hop and neo-soul, who tragically passed away at the age of 63.

Born Angela Laverne Brown on December 18, 1961, in Columbia, South Carolina, Stone’s musical journey commenced in the late 1970s. She co-founded The Sequence, one of the pioneering female hip-hop trios, renowned for their hit single “Funk You Up,” which secured a spot on the U.S. Top Black Singles chart.

Transitioning into the 1990s, Stone showcased her versatility as the lead vocalist of the R&B trio Vertical Hold, delivering memorable tracks like “Seems You’re Much Too Busy.” Her songwriting prowess further shone through collaborations on D’Angelo’s acclaimed albums, “Brown Sugar” and “Voodoo.”

Embarking on a solo career, Stone released her debut album, “Black Diamond,” in 1999, featuring the soulful single “No More Rain (In This Cloud).” This was followed by “Mahogany Soul” in 2001, which included the hit “Wish I Didn’t Miss You,” sampling The O’Jays’ “Back Stabbers.” Both albums achieved gold certification, cementing her status in the neo-soul movement.

Throughout her illustrious career, Stone garnered multiple Grammy nominations:

• In 2003, for Best R&B Performance by a Duo or Group with Vocals for “More Than a Woman” with Joe.

• In 2004, for Best Female R&B Vocal Performance for “U-Haul.”

• In 2008, for Best R&B Performance by a Duo or Group with Vocals for “Baby” with Betty Wright.

Beyond music, Stone ventured into acting, with roles in films like “The Hot Chick” (2002) and “The Fighting Temptations” (2003), and appearances on television series such as “Moesha” and “Girlfriends.” Angie Stone’s legacy is characterized by her groundbreaking contributions to hip-hop and neo-soul, her evocative songwriting, and her powerful vocal performances. Her influence resonates through the artists she inspired and the timeless music she leaves behind.r

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