As we’ve come to understand year after year, day after day even, death is unfortunately an inevitable part of life. Still, as much of a fact as that may be, the blow of experiencing loss never gets any easier, nor does reporting on the subject in Black culture.
Roy Ayers, the iconic jazz vibraphonist celebrated for his groundbreaking contributions to jazz-funk and neo-soul, passed away on March 4, 2025, in New York City at the age of 84 after a prolonged illness. His family described him as a “highly influential and sought-after music collaborator,” leaving behind a legacy that reshaped the musical landscape.
Ayers’ career spanned decades, starting in 1963 and flourishing through the 1970s when he formed his group, Roy Ayers Ubiquity. Together, they delivered timeless classics, including the 1976 hit “Everybody Loves the Sunshine,” a track that still resonates with listeners today, accumulating more than 130 million streams on Spotify. This iconic song has inspired numerous artists, with covers by D’Angelo, Jamie Cullum, and Robert Glasper, and remains a defining anthem of his career.
Known for his innovation, Ayers blurred genre lines, influencing not just jazz but also the emerging neo-soul movement. His music became a treasure trove for sampling, featured in tracks by prominent artists such as Kanye West, Mary J. Blige, Common, and Tyler, the Creator. Ayers also partnered with a range of luminaries across diverse genres, including Erykah Badu, Fela Kuti, and Rick James.
Ayers’ creative genius wasn’t limited to performance; he also composed scores, including the soundtrack for the 1973 film Coffy, cementing himself as a versatile artist. His work breathed life into collaborations and inspired generations, proving timeless in its appeal.
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