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

The legendary vibraphonist and composer, known for 'Everybody Loves the Sunshine,' passed away in New York City after a long illness.

Roy Ayers, a trailblazer in the jazz-funk and neo-soul genres, died on March 4, 2025, at age 84 after a prolonged illness.
Born in Los Angeles in 1940, Ayers was deeply influenced by his musical family and began playing the vibraphone at age five.
Ayers' 1976 track 'Everybody Loves the Sunshine' became a timeless classic, sampled by artists such as Mary J. Blige, Kanye West, and Tyler, the Creator.
He formed the group Roy Ayers Ubiquity in the 1970s, releasing acclaimed albums and composing the soundtrack for the 1973 film 'Coffy.'
Ayers continued performing into his 80s and collaborated with artists like Erykah Badu and The Roots, leaving an enduring impact on multiple generations of musicians.