Roy Ayers, the legendary musician behind “Everybody Loves the Sunshine” and a pioneer of jazz funk, has died, per NBC News. He was 84.
On Thursday (March 6), Ayers’ family shared a statement on Facebook announcing the musician’s death.
“It is with great sadness that the family of legendary vibraphonist, composer, and producer Roy Ayers announce his passing, which occurred on March 4, 2025 in New York City after a long illness,” the family said, adding that Ayers was “highly influential and sought after as a music collaborator.”
Ayers is wildly known as a pioneer of nu-soul and jazz funk as well as a key figure in the 90s acid jazz movement.
His biggest hit, “Everybody Loves the Sunshine,” was covered by artists like d’Angelo and sampled by Mary J Blige, Tyler the Creator, and more. Ayers’ work also influenced several other music stars in the 90s, including Tribe Called Quest and Jill Scott, who sampled his earlier work.
Ayers could play several instruments, including the flute and the trumpet, but was best known for his instrumental work with the vibraphone, a percussion instrument similar to an xylophone but with metal bars instead of wood.
Pharell Williams previously described Ayers as one of his greatest musical inspirations. Erykah Baduh dubbed him “the king of neo soul.”
Rest in peace, Roy Ayers.
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