Entertainment
Music Legend Passes Away at 77, Family Requests Privacy
Clear Facts
- Frankie Beverly, the renowned singer and founder of Maze, passed away on September 10 at the age of 77.
- Beverly’s family confirmed his death and requested privacy during their time of mourning.
- Maze, under Beverly’s leadership, achieved significant success with nine Gold-certified albums and several chart-topping singles.
The music world mourns the loss of a legend as Frankie Beverly, the iconic singer and founder of the group Maze, passed away on September 10 at the age of 77.
Beverly’s family confirmed his death in a heartfelt tribute shared on Instagram on September 11.
“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,” they wrote.
Known for his soulful voice and his hit song “Before I Let Go,” Beverly left an indelible mark on the music industry.
His family remembered him not just for his musical talent but also for his kind heart and passion for life.
“This period for is [sic] 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 wrote.
“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.”
Beverly’s journey in music began with gospel singing and forming a group called the Blenders during his high school years.
In 1963, he founded the Butlers, which later became Raw Soul in 1971.
It was fellow musician Marvin Gaye who suggested the final name change to Maze, setting the stage for their success.
Maze’s debut album in 1977, featuring Frankie Beverly, achieved Gold certification.
This was the first of nine Gold-certified albums for the group.
They topped the Billboard Top R&B/Hip-Hop Albums chart with two No. 1 albums, “Can’t Stop the Love” in 1985 and “Silky Soul” in 1989.
Under Beverly’s leadership, Maze produced nine singles that made it to the Billboard Top R&B/Hip-Hop Songs charts.
Their signature tune, “Before I Let Go,” from the “Live from New Orleans” album, has become a staple at weddings and other significant events.
Beyonce even covered the song in 2019, further cementing its legacy.
Beverly continued to tour with Maze until shortly before his passing, concluding a series of concerts in July.
His official cause of death has not yet been determined.
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