Sly Stone, the influential, eccentric and preternaturally rhythmic singer, songwriter, multi-instrumentalist and producer whose run of hits in the late 1960s and early ’70s with his band the Family Stone could be dance anthems, political documents or both, died Monday in Los Angeles. He was 82.

The cause was “a prolonged battle with C.O.P.D.,” or lung disease, “and other underlying health issues,” according to a statement from his representatives on Monday.

“Sly was a monumental figure, a groundbreaking innovator, and a true pioneer who redefined the landscape of pop, funk, and rock music,” the statement said.

As the colorful maestro and mastermind of a multiracial, mixed-gender band, Stone experimented with the R&B, soul and gospel music he was raised on in the San Francisco area, mixi

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