Roy Ayers, the legendary vibraphonist, composer, and jazz-funk pioneer behind “Everybody Loves the Sunshine,” has died at the age of 84.
A statement shared by the singer’s family in a Facebook post announced his death that Wednesday evening.
“It is with great sadness that the family of legendary vibraphonist, composer, and producer Roy Ayers announce his passing, which occurred on March 4th, 2025, in New York City after a long illness. He lived a beautiful 84 years and will be sorely missed. His family ask that you respect their privacy at this time, a celebration of Roy’s life will be forthcoming.”
Roy Ayers was among the best-known, most loved, and respected jazz/R&B artists on the music scene. Known as the Godfather of Neo-soul, he’s been able to bridge the gap between generations of music lovers.
Roy Edward Ayers, Jr. was born in Los Angeles, CA, on September 10, 1940. He came by his affinity for music naturally, as his mother, Ruby Ayers, was a schoolteacher and local piano instructor, and his father, Roy Sr., a sometimes-parking attendant and trombonist.
At 17, he received his first vibraphone as a gift and enrolled at Los Angeles City College to study advanced music theory. In the early 1960s, he made his recording debut alongside saxophonist Curtis Amy and later signed his first contract with United Artists, releasing his debut album West Coast Vibes in 1963.
In 1973, he wrote and produced the soundtrack for the blaxploitation film “Coffy” starring Pam Grier. During this era, he formed Roy Ayers Ubiquity and scored his biggest hit with “Everybody Loves the Sunshine,” the title track from their 1976 album.
In the following decades, he released numerous records and founded two labels, Uno Melodic and Gold Mink Records. His final solo album, Mahogany Vibe, was released in 2004 and featured guest appearances by Betty Wright, Kamilah, and Erykah Badu. In 2015, he appeared as a guest on Tyler, the Creator’s track Find Your Wings, and two years later, he performed at the artist’s Camp Flog Gnaw festival.
Today, the dynamic music man will be remembered as an iconic figure whose sounds are still in demand by music industry heavyweights, including Mary J. Blige, 50 Cent, A Tribe Called Quest, Tupac, and Ice Cube. Roy Ayers’ spirit and music shall live on, preserving the soulful vibrations that continue to inspire for years to come.
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