Iconic jazz vibraphonist and composer, Roy Ayers, whose hit song ‘Everybody Loves the Sunshine’ has been sampled by countless artists, has died at the age of 84.
In a formal statement, the Ayers family confirmed that the iconic musician passed away on Tuesday (3.04) following a long illness.
Describing him as “highly influential and sought after as a music collaborator,” they added “It is with great sadness that the family of legendary vibraphonist, composer, and producer Roy Ayers announce his passing which occurred on 4 March 2025 in New York City after a long illness.”
In addition to his own music, Ayers’ legacy includes the significant influence he had on past and current hip-hop and R&B musicians. Known as the Godfather of Neo Soul, Roy’s repertoire has been sampled for decades by the likes of Mary J Blige, Common, Kanye West, A Tribe Called Quest, Junior MAFIA and Tyler, the Creator.
Throughout his decades-long career, the American-born artist established himself as a pioneer of jazz-funk and was hugely influential on the neo-soul movement. As a solo artist, he released dozens of LP, dating as far back as 1963 and his biggest hit was ‘Everybody Loves the Sunshine’ with his group Roy Ayers Ubiquity.
Roy Ayers is survived by his wife, Argerie, and their children Mtume and Ayana.
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Author: Al Denté
Photo: Stuart Sevastos