Roy Ayers, also known as the “godfather of neo-soul” music, died on Tuesday. He was 84.

The news of the legendary jazz and R&B musician’s passing was announced via his Facebook account on Wednesday.

“It is with great sadness that the family of legendary vibraphonist, composer and producer Roy Ayers announce his passing which occurred on March 4th, 2025 in New York City after a long illness,” the statement read. “He lived a beautiful 84 years and will be sorely missed. His family asks that you respect their privacy at this time. A celebration of Roy’s life will be forthcoming.”

Ayers was born in Los Angeles on Sept. 10, 1940, and began aspiring to play the vibraphone at the age of five. At 17, he attended Los Angeles City College to study advanced music theory. Ayers is best known for his 1976 single, “Everybody Loves The Sunshine,” which was named track 72 on Pitchfork’s “200 Best Songs of the 1970s” list.

His unique jazz-funk styling has been sampled in songs such as Mary J. Blige’s “My Life,” A Tribe Called Quest’s “Bonita Applebaum,” and Junior M.A.F.I.A.’s “Get Money. Ayers has also worked with artists such as Alicia Keys, The Roots, and Tyler, The Creator.

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Murjani Rawls may be reached at [email protected]