R&B soul legend Frankie Beverly has died
The legendary frontman for the soul band Maze Featuring Frankie Beverly was 77.
Frankie Beverly, the legendary frontman for the soul band Maze Featuring Frankie Beverly, has died. He was 77.
His death Tuesday was announced in a statement from the family on Instagram. The cause of death was not stated.
“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 family wrote. “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. Love one another as he would want that for us all,” it continued.
Fans of the Maze frontman’s life and legacy poured in on social media.
“All white linen at Essence Fest is a thing. And it’s a thing because of the great Howard “Frankie” Beverly,” songwriter Johntá Austin wrote in response to this post. “The epitome of black joy through song! The height of feel good music. Made the greatest black cookout record of all time “Before I Let Go” Rest easy Frankie! THANK YOU!”
“Rest In Peace My Sincere Condolences To Family & Friends,” singer Keith Sweat wrote on Instagram. “Legendary, Icon, a favorite. May he RIP,” singer Deborah Cox added.
Born Howard Stanley Beverly in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, the singer and songwriter got his start in the church, singing gospel music and showing off his talents as a soloist. As a teen, he joined ensemble known as The Silhouettes, and created two of his own, The Blenders and The Butlers.
A huge fan of Frankie Lymon and the Teenagers, famed for the 1956 hit “Why Do Fools Fall in Love,” Beverly changed his name to Frankie to match his idol.
In 1970, he formed the band Raw Soul — which would later become known as Maze, after some nudging from Marvin Gaye. Maze went on create the Black classics everyone knows and loves, like "Before I Let Go,” “Happy Feelin's,” “Joy and Pain,” “Golden Time of Day,” “Can’t Get Over You” and more.
This summer, Beverly closed out his 50-year career with a “Farewell Tour” and his final performance took place in his hometown of Philadelphia.
🕊️❤️
Heartbroken 💔