Legendary jazz vibraphonist and pioneer of jazz-funk, Roy Ayers, has passed away at the age of 84, leaving behind a legacy that shaped generations of music. Best known for his timeless classic Everybody Loves the Sunshine, Ayers’ influence transcended genres, touching the hearts of jazz lovers and hip-hop enthusiasts alike.
His family confirmed the news, revealing that Ayers died on March 4, 2025, in New York City following a long illness. In their heartfelt statement, they remembered him not just as a groundbreaking artist but also as a beloved family man and a collaborator whose music resonated far beyond the jazz world.
Roy Ayers was more than just a musician — he was a movement. Dubbed the “Godfather of Neo Soul,” his innovative blend of jazz, funk, and soul laid the foundation for modern R&B and hip-hop. His music became a goldmine for sampling, with iconic artists like Mary J. Blige, Common, Kanye West, A Tribe Called Quest, Junior M.A.F.I.A., and Tyler, the Creator weaving his sound into their own hits.
Ayers’ career spanned more than six decades, kicking off in 1963 and blossoming into a catalog of dozens of albums. His group, Roy Ayers Ubiquity, gave the world Everybody Loves the Sunshine — a track that remains as warm and radiant as the day it was released, continuing to inspire both artists and fans alike.
Beyond the studio, Roy Ayers was known for his magnetic stage presence, captivating audiences with his smooth vibraphone melodies and soulful rhythms. His music wasn’t just something you listened to — it was something you felt.
Roy Ayers is survived by his wife, Argerie, and their children, Mtume and Ayana. Though he may have left this world, his music will forever echo through the generations, a reminder that, indeed, everybody loves the sunshine.