Frankie Beverly, Voice of Maze, Dies at 77, Leaving Iconic Legacy

Published on 11 September 2024, by Olivia Collins | NY, USA

The soul music community is grieving the loss of one of its legends, Frankie Beverly, who has died at the age of 77. His family confirmed his passing in a statement on Tuesday, September 11, saying, “He lived his life with pure soul, as one would say, and for us, no one did it better.”

Born Howard Stanley Beverly, Frankie rose to prominence in the 1960s, initially performing with groups like The Blenders and The Butlers, before establishing the iconic band Maze. Known for hits like "Before I Let Go" and "Happy Feelin’s," the Philadelphia-born artist left an indelible mark on soul music.

The Beverly family took to Instagram to share the sad news, writing, “Grieving the loss of a loved one is a deeply personal and emotional experience. During this time, as we navigate feelings of sorrow, reflection, and remembrance, we kindly ask for privacy and understanding, allowing us the space to grieve in our own way. 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.”

Though the cause of death was not revealed, the family added, “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 have wanted that for us all.”

As word of his death spread on social media, many fans began sharing tributes and memories of how Frankie and his music touched their lives. One individual wrote under the family's post, "He left us in a way fitting of a legend, almost as if he knew the end was near. You’ll always be in our hearts."

Another fan shared, "I’m 37 and listen to him every day. The influence he had on Black households is unmatched. Our Saturdays were filled with his music while we cleaned. My family took us to the Houston Rodeo every year, where Maze often headlined. I was heartbroken to miss his last concert this past year. Waking up to this news shattered me. Frankie Beverly will always be one of a kind!"