NEW ORLEANS (AP) — Frankie Beverly, the legendary frontman of the band Maze, known for his soulful voice and timeless anthems like “Before I Let Go,” has passed away at the age of 77. His family confirmed his death in a post on the band’s website and social media, asking for privacy during this difficult time. The family tribute highlighted his pure soul and exceptional artistry, though they did not disclose the cause or location of his death.
Beverly, whose impactful songs include “Joy and Pain,” “Love Is the Key,” and “Southern Girl,” concluded his farewell “I Wanna Thank You Tour” in Philadelphia this past July. That same month, the Essence Festival of Culture in New Orleans honored Beverly and Maze, who had been a cherished fixture at the event’s closing for its first 15 years. At the festival, known as the largest annual celebration of Black culture in the U.S., Beverly’s performances were famous for transforming the crowd into a vibrant sea of dancing fans, many dressed in white as he often was.
The festival’s organizers expressed profound admiration for Beverly, noting that his artistry was not just about music but a significant part of collective joy and memorable experiences. “Frankie Beverly’s artistry wasn’t just about sound; it was the very thread that stitched together our collective memories and moments of joy,” they stated. “His melodies will forever echo in our hearts and continue to inspire.”
Marc Morial, president of the National Urban League and former mayor of New Orleans, reflected on Maze’s 1981 album “Live In New Orleans,” which solidified Beverly’s connection to the city. Morial recalled sitting front row at Maze’s festival performances and seeing the crowd, “joyful like a choir,” singing along with Beverly. He described Beverly’s music as having a special emotional impact, filled with positive themes of love and happiness, which made people fall in love with him.
Beverly’s songs have become a staple in Black community celebrations. The 1981 hit “Before I Let Go,” famously covered by Beyoncé, continues to energize events from clubs to family gatherings. Hakeem Holmes, vice president of the Essence Festival, noted the song’s power to get people dancing and the comfort and joy that Beverly’s music brings. He highlighted the “healing aspect” of Beverly’s songs and their ability to unite people as they sing along.
In a summer interview with Essence magazine, Beverly described music as “the love of my life” and expressed his belief that his music was meant to reach every generation. Born Howard Stanley Beverly on December 6, 1946, in Philadelphia, he was so inspired by the 1950s R&B group Frankie Lymon and The Teenagers that he adopted the name Frankie.
Maze began in Philadelphia during the early 1970s as Raw Soul before relocating to the San Francisco Bay Area. Marvin Gaye played a pivotal role in the band’s success, persuading them to change their name to Maze and helping them release their debut album, “Maze Featuring Frankie Beverly,” in 1977. Beverly’s 1989 album, “Silky Soul,” paid tribute to Gaye, celebrating the romantic and soulful aspects of their music.
The loss of Frankie Beverly has been deeply felt by fans and fellow musicians alike. Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Jalen Hurts shared his grief on X, acknowledging Beverly’s lasting impact through his music. New Orleans resident Sedrick T. Thomas, a lifelong fan, expressed his sorrow, saying Beverly’s passing creates a significant void in the R&B world. “I feel myself in mourning,” Thomas said. “Frankie was a great entertainer who made sure we, as fans, walked away with an incredible experience. I grew up on his music. I thank him for ‘Joy and Pain,’ ‘Southern Girl,’ ‘Happy Feelin’s,’ and ‘Before I Let Go.’ I thank him for the time and energy he put into his performances. And though the music will live on, he will be greatly missed.”
Frankie Beverly’s legacy lives on through his music, which continues to resonate and inspire across generations. His contributions to the world of R&B and his ability to touch hearts with his soulful performances ensure that his memory will endure.
