The soulful house community is in mourning this week, reflecting on the profound influence of several artists who, while not exclusively part of the genre, have left an indelible mark on its evolution. The recent passings of Angie Stone, Roy Ayers, Roberta Flack, Gwen McCrae, and DJ Funk have prompted deep reflection on their contributions to music.
Angie Stone (December 18, 1961 – March 1, 2025)
Angie Stone’s journey began with The Sequence, one of the pioneering female hip-hop groups of the late 1970s.Transitioning to R&B and neo-soul, her solo career flourished with hits like “No More Rain (In This Cloud)” and “Wish I Didn’t Miss You.” Stone’s rich vocals and heartfelt songwriting resonated with many, bridging the gap between traditional soul and contemporary sounds. Her influence extended into soulful house through numerous remixes of her tracks, which became staples on dance floors worldwide. Tragically, Stone passed away at 63 following a car accident in Alabama.
Roy Ayers (September 10, 1940 – March 4, 2025)
Dubbed the “Godfather of Neo-Soul,” Roy Ayers was a visionary vibraphonist and composer who seamlessly blended jazz, funk, and soul. His 1976 classic “Everybody Loves the Sunshine” became an anthem, influencing countless artists across genres. Ayers’ innovative approach laid the groundwork for the acid jazz movement and significantly impacted the development of soulful house music. His timeless grooves continue to inspire producers and DJs, ensuring his legacy endures on dance floors globally. Ayers passed away at 84 after a prolonged illness.
Roberta Flack (February 10, 1937 – February 24, 2025)
Roberta Flack’s emotive voice and masterful interpretations of songs like “Killing Me Softly With His Song” captivated audiences worldwide. Her ability to convey deep emotion influenced many vocalists within the soulful house scene.Flack’s music, characterized by its smooth melodies and heartfelt delivery, found new life in various dance remixes, introducing her timeless sound to younger generations. She passed away at 88, leaving behind a rich musical legacy.
Gwen McCrae (December 21, 1943 – February 21, 2025)
Known as the “Queen of Rare Groove,” Gwen McCrae’s sultry vocals graced classics like “Rockin’ Chair” and “All This Love That I’m Givin’.” Her music became a treasure trove for DJs and producers, with tracks frequently sampled and remixed into soulful house hits. McCrae’s ability to infuse emotion into dance music set a precedent for blending soulful vocals with infectious rhythms. She passed away at 81 after a prolonged illness.
DJ Funk (January 13, 1971 – March 5, 2025)
A pioneer of the ghetto house movement, DJ Funk’s high-energy tracks and raw beats were instrumental in shaping Chicago’s dance scene. His influence extended to various electronic genres, including soulful house, where his rhythmic innovations inspired many producers. DJ Funk’s relentless drive to make people dance ensured his status as a beloved figure in the community. He passed away at 54 after a battle with cancer.
The legacies of these artists are deeply intertwined with the soulful house genre. Their contributions have enriched the musical tapestry, influencing countless artists and delighting fans across generations. As the community mourns their loss, it also celebrates the enduring impact of their artistry, which will continue to inspire and move audiences worldwide.
