NEW ORLEANS (AP) — Frankie Beverly, the legendary frontman of Maze, whose soulful voice and timeless anthems like "Before I Let Go" inspired generations of fans, has passed away at the age of 77.
His family announced his passing on the band’s official website and social media, requesting privacy during this time. He lived his life with a pure soul, and for us, no one did it better, the family’s statement read. However, no details about the cause of death or the location were provided.
Beverly's artistry went beyond just music; it became a soundtrack to collective memories of joy and celebration. "Frankie Beverly’s music wasn’t just sound; it was the very thread that tied together moments of happiness and unity," organizers of the Essence Festival of Culture said in tribute. "His melodies will forever resonate in our hearts."
His farewell "I Wanna Thank You Tour" concluded in July in his hometown of Philadelphia. That same month, the Essence Festival in New Orleans honored Beverly and Maze, who had headlined the event’s closing night for its first 15 years. His performances turned the festival crowd into a wave of dancing fans, many clad in white, echoing Beverly’s signature look.
Marc Morial, president of the National Urban League and former New Orleans mayor, reflected on Beverly's lasting impact. He recalled Maze's 1981 album *Live In New Orleans*, which solidified the bond between the city and Beverly. Morial remembered sitting in the front row at the Essence Festival, witnessing a sea of joyful fans singing along to every word. "His music had feeling. It spoke of love, happiness, family, and unity," Morial said. "It was magical."
On the title track of his 1989 album *Silky Soul*, Beverly paid tribute to Marvin Gaye, who had encouraged Maze’s name change and helped them release their debut album in 1977. Beverly, reflecting on his '60s roots, expressed in a 1990 interview that "faith and unity" from that era had faded, something he deeply missed.
Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Jalen Hurts was among the many grieving Beverly’s loss. “His timeless music, powerful words, and lasting impact. I’m devastated by this one,” Hurts posted on social media.
New Orleans resident Sedrick T. Thomas, a lifelong fan, said Beverly’s death “leaves a chasm in the world of R&B.” "Frankie was a great entertainer who made sure fans left with unforgettable experiences. Though his music will live on, he will be greatly missed."
Beverly's music, especially the 1981 classic *Before I Let Go*, which Beyoncé later covered, became a staple of Black celebrations, from clubs to family cookouts. "When that song plays, it’s time to dance," said Hakeem Holmes, vice president of the Essence Festival. He described Maze’s music as having a “healing aspect” and noted that songs like *We Are One* bring people together in unity.
In a recent interview with Essence magazine, Beverly called musicthe love of my life. Though he couldn't pinpoint exactly why his music transcended generations, he humbly believed that "God made a path for my music to reach everyone."
Born Howard Stanley Beverly on December 6, 1946, in Philadelphia, he was inspired by the 1950s R&B group Frankie Lymon and The Teenagers, leading him to adopt the name Frankie. Maze started out as Raw Soul in Philadelphia during the early 1970s before relocating to the San Francisco Bay Area, where Marvin Gaye urged the band’s transformation into Maze.
As fans and musicians alike remember Frankie Beverly, his music will continue to inspire, heal, and unite across generations.
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