R&B legend Angie Stone’s recent passing has sparked renewed attention to a December 2024 video in which she accused Universal Music Group (UMG) of withholding her rightful earnings.
The resurfaced clip, now trending on social media, has reignited discussions about the exploitation of Black artists in the music industry.
Stone’s Fight for Her Royalties
In the emotional video, Stone claimed that after more than four decades in the industry, she had not been receiving the royalties and mechanical rights owed to her.
“My publishing, a lot of my royalties, my mechanicals, they have all pretty much been stolen,” Stone stated in the video shared hours after her passing by Golden Era Stories on IG. “After 40 something years in the business, I’m like, where are my royalties going? Because I’m not getting them. Come to find out Universal Music has been receiving all my royalties, all my mechanicals.”
She further alleged that her music was not properly registered by those handling her affairs, leading to significant financial losses.
Stone insisted that she should have been able to retire comfortably years ago but instead had been financially shortchanged.
“One way or the other, Universal Music, you’re going to have to give up my coins,” she declared, vowig to recover her earnings for the sake of her children and grandchildren.
Angie Stone’s Tragic Passing
The resurfaced video comes just days after the 63-year-old singer tragically lost her life in a car accident on March 1, 2025, in Montgomery, Alabama.
Known for classic hits like No More Rain (In This Cloud) and Wish I Didn’t Miss You, Stone was a trailblazer in R&B and soul music, leaving behind a legacy that deeply impacted the industry.
Fans React to the Allegations
Stone’s claims have reignited outrage among fans and fellow artists, with many taking to social media to express their frustration over the mistreatment of legendary Black musicians.
“This is the same story all of the time. Why hasn’t something been done about our legends giving us their best and dying in poverty? It’s shameful. My goodness
” one fan wrote.
Another user echoed similar sentiments:
“The music industry generates billions, they should give these artists their just due! Angie wrote and produced great music. Give her the much-deserved recognition and respect she deserves.”
Many also speculated on deeper issues within the industry, urging current artists to take greater control of their financial and legal affairs.
“Ok, it is making sense now. I get it. The strategy has to be different from the others. Stay prayed up, my good people,” one commenter wrote.
Ongoing Industry Concerns
Stone’s accusations are not the first of their kind. Over the years, numerous Black artists have spoken out about unfair contracts, unpaid royalties, and financial mismanagement by record labels. The issue has persisted despite multiple lawsuits and industry reforms.
As the video continues to circulate, fans and artists alike are calling for more transparency and accountability in the music business.
Whether Universal Music Group will address Stone’s allegations remains to be seen, but her legacy as a voice for truth and justice in the industry remains undeniable.
