The family of Sly Stone has confirmed the legendary funk icon died Monday at the age of 82. Stone, born Sylvester Stewart, was a founder and front man for the band Sly and the Family Stone which rose to popularity in the late 1960s.

Stone died following a prolonged battle with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and other ailments, according to the Associated Press. Stone’s publicist Carleen Donovan said the front man died while surrounded by family and friends.

During the band’s brief, but influential time at the top of the music charts, Sly and the Family Stone recorded several Top-10 hits including "Everyday People,” “Dance to the Music,” and “Family Affair.” Three of the band’s albums, “Stand!”, “There’s a Riot Goin’ On” and “Greatest Hits” sold more than one million copies.

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