Music fans worldwide are mourning the loss of legendary R&B artist, songwriter, and producer Frankie Beverly, who passed away at the age of 77. Beverly, best known as the founder of the iconic band Maze, died on Tuesday, according to a statement from his family released on Wednesday.
Beverly, born Howard Stanley Beverly in Philadelphia, founded Maze and became a monumental figure in funk and soul music. In their statement, his family expressed their grief and asked for privacy as they navigate their sorrow. “Grieving the loss of a loved one is deeply personal and emotional,” the statement read. “This period 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.”
The family also reflected on Beverly’s life, emphasizing his passion for music, family, and friends. “He lived his life with pure soul, and 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 his hometown of Philadelphia, where he attended Germantown High School. He founded his first group, The Blenders, before moving on to record with The Butlers. His talent caught the eye of renowned producer Kenny Gamble, leading to several releases under Cameo Parkway, a Philly-based record label. After moving to the West Coast, Beverly’s group evolved into Maze, with whom he released nine gold albums.
Maze’s music left an indelible mark on R&B, with their timeless hit “Before I Let Go” becoming a staple at celebrations nationwide. The song, which peaked at #13 on the Billboard R&B chart in 1981, was covered by pop star Beyoncé in 2019, introducing it to a new generation of fans. Other notable songs by Maze include “Joy and Pain,” “We Are One,” and “Back in Stride.”
Earlier this year, Beverly performed a farewell show at the Dell Music Center in North Philadelphia, capping a career that spanned over 50 years. Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Jalen Hurts, who attended the concert and appeared on stage with Beverly, paid tribute to the legendary artist after his passing. “His timeless music, his powerful words, and his lasting impact… His legacy will live on forever. Rest easy, my friend. Long live Frankie,” Hurts posted on social media.
Beverly’s impact reached beyond music, becoming a beloved figure in the R&B community. Longtime radio host Patty Jackson, a close friend of Beverly’s, shared her sentiments: “It’s like losing a member of your family. I’m so glad I got a chance to tell him, ‘I love you.’ And he said, ‘I love you too.’”
Frankie Beverly’s cause of death has not yet been revealed, but his music and legacy will continue to resonate with fans for generations to come.
