Tributes pour in as Roy Ayers, 'godfather of neo soul' and music composer of 'Coffy', dies at 84

NEW YORK CITY, NEW YORK: Roy Ayers, the iconic vibraphonist, record producer, and composer whose timeless melodies shaped the jazz-funk genre, has died at the age of 84.

Best known for hits like 'Everybody Loves the Sunshine' and 'No Stranger to Love', Ayers died on March 4, 2025, in New York City after a prolonged illness, People reported.

Roy Ayers' musical legacy transcends generations

The death of Roy Ayers, also known as the "godfather of neo soul," was confirmed through a statement shared on his official Facebook account.

“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,” the statement read.

Born on September 10, 1940, in Los Angeles, Ayers was introduced to music at an early age, with a trombone-playing father and a pianist mother.

His influences would later propel him to become a pioneering force in jazz-funk, blending rich harmonies with innovative rhythms that continue to inspire musicians across genres.

His 1976 classic 'Everybody Loves the Sunshine' remains one of the most sampled tracks in music history, influencing a vast array of artists, from Mary J Blige and Common to Tyler, the Creator and Kanye West.

According to NPR, the song has been sampled over 100 times, cementing Ayers' lasting impact on contemporary music.

Mary J Blige and Leon Thomas reflect on Roy Ayers’ influence

Nine-time Grammy winner Mary J Blige, in a February 2020 exclusive interview with People, reflected on the song's profound influence on her career.

“‘My Life’ is one of the most important records of my life,” Blige said.

“It’s definitely one of the most important and it’s one of my favorite songs ever sampled, which is Roy Ayers’ Everybody Loves the Sunshine,” she added.

Leon Thomas, the 2024 'Mutt' hitmaker, also cited Ayers as an inspiration for his 2023 project 'Electric Dusk'.

In a November 2024 interview with People, Thomas explained how Ayers' artistry influenced his own musical vision.

“I'm trying to create that psychedelic feeling in R&B and it's a really tough thing because the genre is pretty iron clad,” Thomas said.

“They like certain colors, certain vibes, certain things, but I'm doing my best to dare to be different,” he added. 

Roy Ayers: A trailblazer in jazz, funk, and film

After the release of his 1970 album 'Ubiquity', Roy Ayers formed his live band, Roy Ayers Ubiquity, further establishing his signature sound.

His discography includes acclaimed albums such as 'He’s Coming' (1972) and 'Red, Black & Green' (1973), each reflecting his deep-rooted connection to jazz, funk, and social consciousness.

Ayers also ventured into film, composing the score for the 1973 blaxploitation action thriller 'Coffy' starring Pam Grier.

His work on the film added yet another dimension to his already expansive artistic portfolio.

Ayers remained dedicated to his craft throughout his life, performing on legendary platforms like Soul Train and even headlining an NPR Tiny Desk concert in March 2018.

His live performances were marked by an electrifying energy that transcended generations, proving that his music was not just heard but felt.

Roy Ayers is survived by his wife, Argerie, and their children, Mtume and Ayana Ayers.  

Internet pays tribute to Roy Ayers after his death at 84

The music world is now mourning the loss of Roy Ayers. Other musicians and fans took to social media to express their grief. 

Dutch DJ and producer, Ben Liebrand, commented on the Facebook post, “Our condolences.” 

Kai Alce also paid tribute to the music legend and wrote, “He has & will be with us.” 

One social media user expressed on X, "Rip Roy Ayers. thank you for being sunshine itself with your artistry & warmth. rest in love angel. ♡"

Another commented, "Roy ayers passed away this one hurts so bad…"

One person wrote, "REST IN PEACE ROY AYERS Thank you for making this masterpiece."

One fan said, "RIP Roy Ayers You were a true inspiration in my life and will continue to be."

Another remarked, "Rip roy ayers you taught me that music could sound good." 

One individual commented, "Re$t in peace & eternal sun$hine roy ayers we owe u so much 4 ur sonics & in$piration no wonder its rainin wow #riproyayers."

An individual elaborated further, "Roy Ayers I hope the sun continues to shine down on you wherever you go."

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