Formed by people of different ethnicities and genders, Sly and the Family Stone are one of the greatest funk bands. In fact, they trascend the label of "black music" because they mixed this with "white music" such as rock and pop and psychedelia. However, as great as all of the members are in their instruments, the genius behind the music is Sylvester Stewart, known artistically as Sly Stone. He was a great composer, one of the best. I don't know if you know the page of John Mcferrin, but he called this band "the greatest american band ever" (or his favorite, at least). While I disagree, I can see where is he going with this statement. They are great, truly great. All of their first six studio albums and the two live albums (Fillmore East and Woodstock) are mandatory. Besides, the Greatest Hits released inmediately after "Stand" is great, since it contains three songs unreleased in regular studio albums, and the three are classics. Meanwhile, enjoy this song. One of their best ever: