The world of soul music has lost a true icon with the passing of Frankie Beverly, the legendary singer, songwriter, and frontman of the band Maze. He passed away peacefully at the age of 77, leaving behind a lasting legacy that has shaped the sound of R&B and soul for more than five decades.
The Beverly family announced his passing on Instagram: “Grieving the loss of a loved one is a deeply personal and emotional experience. During this time, as we are navigating feelings of sorrow, reflection, and remembrance we kindly ask for privacy and understanding, allowing us the space to grieve in our own way. This period for is one of healing, and your respect for our need for solitude is appreciated as we honor the memory of our beloved Howard Stanley Beverly known to the world as Frankie Beverly.
He lived his life with pure soul as one would say, and for us, no one did it better. He lived for his music, family and friends.”
Frankie Beverly, born on December 6, 1946, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, was a musical trailblazer whose smooth vocals, signature all-white attire, and soulful hits captured the hearts of fans across generations.
He first made his mark in the music industry with his band Maze, whose debut album Maze featuring Frankie Beverly was released in 1977. The album, which featured hits like Happy Feelin’s and While I’m Alone, solidified Beverly and Maze as one of the premier soul and R&B groups of the late 1970s and 1980s.
While Maze never had a number-one hit on the Billboard charts, the band achieved legendary status thanks to their live performances, which attracted audiences worldwide. Songs like Before I Let Go, Joy and Pain, and We Are One became timeless anthems, known for their infectious grooves and heartfelt lyrics. Before I Let Go in particular has remained a beloved classic and continues to be a mainstay at cookouts, family gatherings, and celebrations, with its indelible mark on Black culture.
Beverly’s musical journey began in his youth when he formed his first group, The Blenders, at the age of 12. The Blenders eventually evolved into The Butlers, who would later catch the attention of Marvin Gaye. It was Gaye who encouraged Beverly to relocate to California and rebrand the band as Maze.
With Gaye’s mentorship and Maze’s unique sound—merging elements of R&B, funk, jazz, and soul—Beverly led the band to international success, performing at iconic venues like the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival and Essence Music Festival.
Beverly’s smooth voice and the band’s signature grooves earned them the love of millions, but it was their authenticity and connection to the community that made them legends. Fans have always appreciated Beverly’s refusal to conform to the industry’s demands for flashy theatrics; instead, Maze delivered timeless music and unforgettable live performances that focused on the connection between the band and its audience.
Though Beverly battled health issues in recent years, including vocal problems that caused him to reduce his performances, his influence on contemporary music remains undeniable. Artists such as Beyoncé, who famously covered Before I Let Go on her Homecoming album, have paid homage to Beverly’s profound impact on modern music.
In addition to his music career, Frankie Beverly was known for his humility, kindness, and dedication to his craft. Despite his immense success, he often shied away from the spotlight, preferring to let his music speak for itself. His lyrics, which often centered on themes of love, unity, and resilience, resonated with fans from all walks of life.
Frankie Beverly’s contributions to music earned him numerous accolades, including the Soul Train Legend Award in 2012. He was celebrated not only for his contributions to soul music but for his ability to bring people together through song, creating a sense of community and joy that transcended generations.
Frankie Beverly is survived by his son, Anthony, and his extended family, which includes millions of fans around the world who will continue to celebrate his life and legacy through his music. His soulful melodies, smooth vocals, and timeless songs will forever remain a cornerstone of R&B history.
Rest in peace, Frankie Beverly. You truly are one of a kind.
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