Funk legend Sly Stone is homeless and living in a camper on the street in a dodgy part of L.A. He washes in a neighbors bathroom and the neighbors son drives him around, according to the New York Post.
Sly, a huge figure in popular music whose influence can not be overstated, fell into the hell of drug addiction for decades and came out damaged. In 1984 he sold his catalog to Michael Jackson for a measly million bucks (scumbag Michael, steal from other people) and then signed a contract with manager Jerry Goldstein whereby Goldstein got his royalties and Sly got a weekly stipend. They argued and Sly claims he hasn't gotten money in over a year. he is suing his manger for $50M
Which leaves Sly homeless and broke. He is 68 years old.
I saw him at BB King's a couple of years ago and while he was OK, he wasn't really on stage much.
However, this points to everything scray about the music business. Where is his 401K? Hey, where is his social security? And where are all the musicians who owe him their career starting with Prince? I am sure Larry Graham would get on board for a proper Sly tour. I am sure hany major funk band would be honored to have him open for them.
Maybe now, near rock bottom, he can reinvent himself.
Also, Sly has been recording songs for years and now has 100s of unreleased tracks. Why doesn't one on the majors gives it a listen. Def Jam could promote the fuck out of it. Sly is extremely paranoid but somebody should be able to calm him down.
It sounds awful for Stone but maybe it is a blessing in disguise. Now the story is out, maybe the music can come together and help him save himself. He can do it if he tries.