Rose Stone was born on March 21st, 1945

Rose Stone: The Soulful Voice of Sly and the Family Stone

A Legendary Lead Singer and Keyboardist

Rose Stone, born Rosemary Stewart on March 21, 1945, is an American singer and keyboardist renowned for her powerful vocals as one of the lead singers in the iconic psychedelic soul/funk band, Sly and the Family Stone. With her brothers, Sly Stone and Freddie Stone, she formed the band in 1966, bringing a unique sound that captivated audiences worldwide.

Early Career and Rise to Fame

During the 1960s and 1970s, Rose Stone's soulful voice and energetic performances made her a standout member of Sly and the Family Stone. Her signature platinum-colored wig became an integral part of her stage persona, adding to her charisma and style. The band's innovative blend of funk, rock, and soul led to numerous chart-topping hits, including "Dance to the Music," "Everyday People," and "There's a Riot Goin' On."

Post-Family Stone Career and Collaborations

After the band's dissolution in 1975, Rose Stone went on to pursue a solo career, releasing an album on Motown Records under the name Rose Banks. During the 1980s and 1990s, she worked as a backing session singer, lending her vocals to recordings by Michael Jackson, Phish, Ringo Starr, Reef, and Bobbysocks, among others.

Gospel Roots and Later Works

In 1983, Rose Stone returned to her gospel roots, singing on Sandra Crouch's Grammy Award-winning album "We Sing Praises." She has since been associated with the Crouch family and the music department of Christ Memorial COGIC in California. Her contributions to various projects, including Victoria Williams' album "Loose" and Phish's album "Hoist," demonstrate her continued relevance in the music world.

Recent Years and Legacy

In 2006, Rose Stone reunited with the original Family Stone, and in 2011 and 2012, she and her daughter Lisa toured with Elton John as members of his vocal backing group. Her legacy extends beyond her own music, as her daughter Lisa has also followed in her footsteps, singing with Vet Stone and Cynthia Robinson in a Sly and the Family Stone tribute band. Rose Stone's impact on the music world is undeniable, and her contributions continue to inspire new generations of artists and fans alike.

Trivia and Fun Facts

• Rose Stone's daughter, Lisa, sang with Vet Stone and Cynthia Robinson in a Sly and the Family Stone tribute band.
• Rose Stone appears in the movie "The Ladykillers" as a soloist in the church choir.
• She has been involved in the music department at her brother Freddie's church for many years.

Influence on Modern Society

Rose Stone's work with Sly and the Family Stone played a significant role in shaping the sound of psychedelic soul and funk in the 1960s and 1970s. Her contributions to the band's music and her continued involvement in the music industry have inspired countless artists and fans, ensuring her legacy as a legendary singer and keyboardist.