Frankie Beverly, the soulful voice behind Maze and the iconic track "Before I Let Go," has died at 77.
The New York Times reported that the celebrated musician passed away on Tuesday, leaving behind a legacy celebrated in soul and R&B music circles. Born in Philadelphia, Frankie Beverly embarked on his musical journey in 1970, founding a band initially named Raw Soul.
His life's work would become synonymous with the soulful rhythms and heartfelt lyrics of Maze, a group he led with distinction for over five decades.
The name change to Maze was suggested by Marvin Gaye, a reflection of the complex, intertwined melodies and emotional depth that the band would become known for. This rebranding marked the beginning of a prolific era for Maze, under Beverly's leadership.
Throughout the late 1970s to the early 1990s, Maze released nine gold albums, each cementing their reputation as stalwarts of soul and R&B. Hits like "Joy and Pain" and "Golden Time of Day" became anthems, revered across generations.
The 1981 live album "Live in New Orleans" featured what would become a seminal track, "Before I Let Go." This song not only showcased Beverly's velvety vocals but also became a cultural staple at Black social events, celebrated for its joyful and communal spirit.
Beverly's work reached new heights of recognition when Beyoncé covered "Before I Let Go" in 2019. He regarded this moment as a peak in his career, seeing his music embraced by a new generation and integrated into the global music landscape.
Maze's influence extended beyond their recordings, with the band known for their distinctive live performances. Clad in all-white outfits, their concerts were an embodiment of the band's pure and soulful aesthetic, drawing fans from across the world.
In March, the NAACP Image Awards honored Frankie Beverly with a lifetime achievement award, recognizing his indelible impact on music and culture.
This accolade highlighted not just decades of musical excellence but also his influence on the industry and beyond.
Earlier this year, Maze continued to tour, demonstrating Beverly's unwavering commitment to his craft and his fans. However, in a poignant turn of events, some original members of Maze departed in May 2023.
They formed The Music Forever (TMF) and embarked on their own musical journey, carrying forward the essence of the sounds they had shaped together.
TMF expressed their deep sorrow at Beverly's passing, acknowledging his role not just as a bandmate but as a friend. Their public condolences reflected the personal and professional bonds that defined their years with Beverly.
The Beverly family announced his passing via social media, utilizing Frankie Beverly and Maze's official Instagram and Facebook pages.
They shared their grief and requested privacy, emphasizing the personal nature of their loss and the profound impact Beverly had on their lives.
They described him as living "with pure soul," dedicating his life to music, family, and friends. The family's tribute painted a picture of a man deeply loved, whose music was an extension of his love for those around him.
In further statements, the family articulated their need for solitude during this difficult time. They asked for understanding and respect as they navigated this period of mourning, highlighting their desire to remember and honor Beverly privately.
As news of Beverly's death spread, tributes poured in from fans, musicians, and public figures. Each message echoed the sentiment of loss but also celebrated the joy and unity his music brought into their lives.
Beverly's narrative is not just one of musical achievements but also of personal battles and triumphs, which he shared openly in interviews. His honest reflections added depth to the songs that many came to love and relate to.
The legacy of Frankie Beverly and Maze lives on through their music, continuing to touch hearts and inspire listeners with every melody and lyric that speaks of life's complexities and beauties.
