Funk, rock, and progressive soul pioneer Sly Stone, real name Sylvester Stewart, has died aged 82.

A statement from his three children announced: "It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved dad, Sly Stone of Sly and the Family Stone. After a prolonged battle with COPD and other underlying health issues, Sly passed away peacefully, surrounded by his three children, his closest friend, and his extended family."

"While we mourn his absence," it continued, "we take solace in knowing that his extraordinary musical legacy will continue to resonate and inspire for generations to come."

Born in Texas in 1943 and raised in Vallejo, California (near San Fransisco), Stone was adept at guitar, bass, drums, and keyboards by the time he was just eleven years old

He formed Sly and the Family Stone in 1966 by combining his band Sly and the Stoners with his younger brother Freddie's band Freddie and the Stone Souls. Joined by their two sisters Rose and Vet, alongside a host of other musicians, the band pioneered genres like psychedelic soul and funk, releasing critically acclaimed albums such as Stand (1969) and There's a Riot Goin' On (1971).

One of the first major American groups to have both a mixed-gender and racially integrated lineup, Sly and his band went on to influence a host of later musicians—Herbie Hancock cited Sly as a key influence on his 1973 album Head Hunters, and Brian Eno hailed their 1973 album Fresh as altering the history of recording itself. Artists from Outkast and Red Hot Chilli Peppers to Prince and Michael Jackson have all cited the band as an inspiration.

The statement from Sly's children announcing his passing ends: "We wish peace and harmony to all who were touched by Sly's life and his iconic music. Thank you from the bottom of our hearts for your unwavering support."