*How fitting that, in times like these, where the controversial demand for diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) is being so fiercely challenged, the spotlight lands once again on such songs as “Everybody is A Star” written by Sylvester Stewart aka Sly Stone – the genius behind the recording group Sly and the Family Stone. Stewart passed away June 9, 2025. Private services were held for him earlier today at Forest Lawn in Los Angeles.
Many might say that Stewart was ahead of his time, but when you look at it in retrospect, he was right on time.
Released in December 1969 as the B-side of the single “Thank You (Falettinme Be Mice Elf Agin),” both sides were measured equally on the chart position of the Billboard Hot 100. The messages go hand in hand. They were akin to James Brown’s “Say It Loud (I’m Black And I’m Proud).” It was a “coming out” period for Blacks in America after some hard-fought, blood-drenched battles.
The Black and White ethnic mix of Sly and the Family Stone was a unique force that encapsulated the message of the turbulent civil rights era. Black people wanted dignity, respect, and equal opportunity. Sadly, most White people wanted Blacks to remain in a secondary, sub-human status. Tragically, as Blacks have proven themselves qualified time and time again, as it was then, it all still comes down to skin color.
The message in the songs “Thank You” and “Everybody is A Star” was the embodiment of the collective performers. One could argue that they were messengers from Heaven sent to show the world what harmony should and could look like; and that it could be achieved. Spotlighting each member of the group signified the importance of being themselves, and that they were special in their own way. If life could imitate art on that level, we’d all be much better off.
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Here’s an excerpt of the lyrics to the song:
Everybody is a star
I can feel it when you shine on me
I love you for who you are
Not the one you feel you need to be
Ever catch a falling star?
Ain’t no stopping ’til it’s in the ground
Like Marvin Gaye’s “What’s Going On,” Stewart’s “Everybody is A Star” will stand the test of time in the annals of soul music history.
He persevered to deliver the music God placed in him to deliver to the world. May he rest in peace and in power.
Larry Buford is a contributing writer. Author of “Things Are Gettin’ Outta Hand” and “Book To The Future” (Amazon). Email: [email protected]
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