ATLANTA, USA – Frankie Beverly, the charismatic lead singer of the iconic R&B band Maze, has died at the age of 77.
The soul star, known for timeless hits such as Before I Let Go and Can’t Get Over You, passed away on Tuesday, September 10, 2024, according to a statement from his family.
The cause of death has not been confirmed.
Beverly’s family shared the news via social media, expressing their grief and asking for privacy. “Grieving the loss of a loved one is a deeply personal and emotional experience,” the family said in the statement.
“During this time, as we are navigating feelings of sorrow, reflection, and remembrance, we kindly ask for privacy and understanding.”
The family further added, “He lived his life with pure soul, 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.”
View this post on Instagram
A Career Built on Soul
Born Howard Stanley Beverly on December 6, 1946, in Philadelphia, Beverly’s music career began in the 1960s with the doo-wop group The Blenders.
He later formed The Butlers, a soul group that gained local acclaim. But it was with Maze, the band he founded in 1970, that Beverly truly left his mark.
Initially called Raw Soul, the band was renamed Maze after being urged by Marvin Gaye, whom they supported on tour.
Gaye, a long-time admirer of Beverly’s sound, played a crucial role in their rise. Maze went on to release nine albums between 1977 and 1993, producing classic tracks such as Happy Feelings, While I’m Alone, and Joy and Pain.
Though Beverly and Maze never achieved massive commercial success, their music became the soundtrack of countless lives, particularly through their legendary live performances.
Tributes Pour In
Fans and fellow musicians alike have taken to social media to pay tribute to Beverly.
In 2019, Beyoncé covered Before I Let Go as part of her Homecoming live album.
Beverly, reflecting on the honour, said at the time, “She’s a great friend of mine, but I didn’t know she was going to do this. It made me feel bigger than ever.”
Another great one has transitioned into heaven.
Rest easy, Mr. Frankie Beverly. Thank you for being part of my life through music. 🙏🏾 pic.twitter.com/ErgwtqfJDt
— DJ Mixx Tenn (@rodneythom1978) September 11, 2024
Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens, who had the opportunity to honour Beverly earlier this year, released a heartfelt statement following the singer’s death.
“I join the rest of the world in mourning the passing of the legendary musician, singer, songwriter, and producer Frankie Beverly,” Dickens said.
“Frankie’s sold-out concerts at Chastain Amphitheater created memories for countless Atlantans and visitors from across the region. His music was truly the soundtrack to many of our lives, and my thoughts are with his family, all who loved him, and all who were impacted by his gifts.”
A voice that’s united generations, songs that capture the ESSENCE of the Black experience, and a heart that was as pure as Gold as the records we spun.
Frankie Beverly’s artistry wasn’t just about sound; it was the very thread that stitched together our collective memories and… pic.twitter.com/pY4N6wNj5v
— ESSENCE (@Essence) September 11, 2024
Beverly’s final performance took place in his hometown of Philadelphia at the Dell Music Center. It was a fitting end to a career that had spanned more than five decades, filled with soul, funk, and a lasting influence on the genre.
As his family continues to mourn privately, Beverly’s contributions to music will undoubtedly continue to resonate with generations of fans.
