Roy Ayers, Jazz-Funk Pioneer and 'Godfather of Neo-Soul,' Dies at 84

The influential vibraphonist and composer behind 'Everybody Loves the Sunshine' passed away in New York City after a long illness.

Roy Ayers, a trailblazing jazz-funk musician and vibraphonist, died on March 4, 2025, at the age of 84 in New York City after a prolonged illness.
Ayers was celebrated for his 1976 hit 'Everybody Loves the Sunshine,' which became a staple of summer playlists and a widely sampled track in hip-hop and R&B music.
Often referred to as the 'Godfather of Neo-Soul,' Ayers' six-decade career influenced genres including funk, acid jazz, and neo-soul, collaborating with artists like Erykah Badu, Tyler, the Creator, and Mary J. Blige.
The Los Angeles native began his career in the early 1960s, releasing over 40 albums, forming the band Roy Ayers Ubiquity, and scoring the soundtrack for the 1973 film 'Coffy.'
Ayers is survived by his wife Argerie and their children Mtume and Ayana, with plans for a celebration of his life to be announced by his family.