Maze singer Frankie Beverly dies aged 77

Frankie Beverly, the celebrated singer and frontman of the soul group Maze, has died at the age of 77. His family confirmed his passing on Tuesday, leaving fans and loved ones in mourning.

Known for his soulful hits like “Before I Let Go” and “Can’t Get Over You,” Beverly’s death marks the end of an era for fans of classic soul music. The cause of his death has not been publicly disclosed. In their announcement, Beverly’s family paid tribute to his life and work, describing him as having lived with “pure soul.”

The family issued a statement on social media, expressing their grief and requesting privacy during this difficult time. They said, “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.”

The statement continued, “This period for us 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. Love one another as he would want that for us all.”

Beverly’s musical journey began in the 1960s with The Blenders, a doo-wop group. He later formed The Butlers, but it was his creation of Maze in Philadelphia in 1970 that would define his legacy. Originally named Raw Soul, the group was persuaded by Marvin Gaye to change their name to Maze. Gaye, for whom they served as a supporting act on tour, had a significant influence on the band’s early development.

Maze achieved considerable success with their unique blend of soul, funk, and R&B. Over their career, they released nine albums from 1977 to 1993, with hits like “Happy Feelings” and “While I’m Alone” earning them a lasting place in the hearts of music lovers. The band’s distinct sound and Beverly’s powerful vocals set them apart in the music industry.

One of the notable highlights of Beverly’s later years was Beyoncé’s cover of Maze’s hit single “Before I Let Go,” which was included as a bonus track on her 2019 album, Homecoming: The Live Album. Beverly expressed his excitement and gratitude for the cover, stating in an interview with Billboard that it made him “feel bigger than ever.” He added, “She’s a great friend of mine, but I didn’t know she was going to do this,” calling it “one of the high points of [his] life.”

Frankie Beverly’s influence on soul and R&B music is profound, with his contributions leaving an indelible mark on the genre. His music continues to resonate with fans, and his legacy as a pioneer of soul music will endure. As the music world reflects on his passing, the admiration for Beverly’s artistry and his impact on the industry remains as strong as ever.