Since our inception in 2021, Angie Stone was a figure we frequently discussed on our podcast. Her career, spanning over four decades, had notable highlights in hip-hop, R&B, and soul music. As Angie B, a member of The Sequence, the first all-women rap group signed to Sugar Hill Records, she stood at the forefront of a movement that paved the way for women artists in a genre dominated by men. Her journey in music was a testament to the strength and brilliance that Black women bring to the arts.
Honoring Angie Stone’s Career - A Queue Points Perspective
Angie's career was not only about producing music but also about creating art that challenged, inspired, and resonated across generations. However, as DJ Sir Daniel noted, she deserved justice for the challenges she faced, particularly regarding the ownership of her intellectual property and royalties. Her narrative was reminiscent of icons like Sister Nancy, who only recently received recognition for her influential work. Similarly, Angie deserved a significant moment of acknowledgment and justice.
Transitioning from a pioneering rapper to a celebrated R&B artist, Angie Stone consistently pushed the boundaries of her artistry. From Vertical Hold to her solo debut, "Black Diamond," she skillfully blended classic soul, '80s funk, and '90s hip-hop, showcasing both her vocal talent, production and songwriting abilities. Throughout her career, she collaborated with many artists, including D'Angelo, Raphael Saadiq, Erykah Badu and more, further solidifying her place in music history.
One of Angie Stone's most memorable tracks for Queue Points was 2005’s "I Wasn't Kidding." The song, co-written by Andrea Martin and Adrian Austin, captured themes of love lost, resilience, and personal growth, resonating with listeners on multiple levels. It served as an example of how Angie’s work transcended simple genre classifications, allowing her to connect with a wide audience.
Adrian was one of our earliest guests on Queue Points, and we recorded a conversation with him in tribute to Andrea Martin, following her passing. Thanks Adrian for being willing to share your stories about the creation of this gem with us. For more from Adrian, revisit Season 1 of Adrian’s Playlist of Conversations.
Adrian Austin Remembering Andrea Martin and on Creating Angie Stone’s “I Wasn’t Kidding” - A Queue Points Exclusive (2021)
Thank You, Angie
As we continue to honor Angie Stone's career, it is essential to recognize her as a pioneer who shaped the landscape of music. Her contributions extended beyond her discography; they encompassed the cultural shifts she influenced and the artists she inspired. Her groundbreaking hits will continue to be discovered and sampled—a true indicator of her lasting impact on the industry.
Angie Stone passed away on March 1, 2025, at the age of 63, following a tragic auto accident. She was traveling, with her band, from a performance in Montgomery, Alabama to Atlanta.
DJ Sir Daniel and Jay Ray extend their heartfelt condolences to Angie’s family and send well wishes to those injured in the accident for a smooth and full recovery.
Angie, your legacy will continue to inspire and influence future generations. You will be missed. Thanks for the music.
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