, a pioneer in the development of funk music and its fusion with other genres, has died at age 82 from chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and other health issues.

His family says he "passed away peacefully, surrounded by his three children, his closest friend, and his extended family... Sly recently completed the screenplay for his life story, a project we are eager to share with the world in due course, which follows a memoir published in 2023."

The Rock & Roll Hall of Famer, born , fronted the groundbreaking multi-racial band , but saw his career cut short through his often erratic behavior and excessive drug use.