Sal Filipelli is a multi-instrumentalist and composer whose passion for music began at age twelve, when his mother enrolled him in piano lessons. During his time at San Diego School for Creative & Performing Arts (SCPA), he expanded his musical range to guitar, ukulele, and bass—developing a deep focus on composition that still defines his work today.

First and foremost a composer, Filipelli has toured across the U.S. and Europe, performing in venues, on radio, and television. His discography includes 23rd Century, The Sal Filipelli Band, and The Last Generation of Tape.

In 2011, while writing and recording new material, Filipelli also helped promote live shows across Southern California. By 2013, a new chapter began as he started collaborating with legendary Family Stone frontman Sly Stone. That partnership led to the release of This Day in Music History in 2015, featuring “Role Model,” which Sly performed live that same night with George Clinton in Los Angeles. The album also includes the track “New York” featuring Grammy-winning artist Andra Day.

Filipelli’s creative work with Sly Stone was later acknowledged in Stone’s 2023 memoir Thank You (Falettinme Be Mice Elf Agin), where Filipelli earned an honorable mention. “I didn’t know he was going to include me,” he recalls. “A friend got an advance copy and told me before the book came out. It was surreal—a very proud moment for me.”

Their collaboration evolved into Destiny, a multi-year musical project that began taking shape in the summer of 2023 with the release of the title track “Destiny” featuring the legendary Dr. Cornel West. It was followed by “Without a One” in August, with both singles accompanied by behind-the-scenes video installments offering a glimpse into the creative process.

In August 2024, the duo released a reimagined version of “Role Model”—a bold, cinematic anthem with a striking music video that follows a group of rebellious kids turning the idea of leadership on its head—defying convention and redefining what it means to be a role model.

September brought “One More Hit,” a gritty, soul-driven track matched by a chess-themed, action-packed video starring Sly Stone himself, with a behind-the-scenes companion exploring its creation.

In April 2025, Filipelli released “Big City” featuring hip-hop icon Del the Funky Homosapien, along with original Family Stone members Greg Errico, Jerry Martini, Rustee Allen, and Phunne Stone. These iconic collaborators are featured throughout the project, blending classic funk with sharp lyricism and new creative energy. The single was accompanied by another Making of Destiny installment, further documenting the collaborative energy behind the music.

As Destiny continues to unfold, so does Filipelli’s evolution as a composer and producer—pushing boundaries, blending genres, and staying true to the creative spark that started it all.

Stay tuned for more updates as the journey continues.