Frankie Beverly, the iconic soul singer and frontman of the band Maze, has passed away at the age of 77, his family confirmed. Known for timeless hits such as “Before I Let Go” and “Can’t Get Over You,” Beverly’s music has left an indelible mark on the world of soul and R&B. He died on Tuesday, though the cause of death has not been disclosed.
In a heartfelt statement shared on social media, Beverly’s family reflected on his life and legacy, expressing their deep sorrow and requesting privacy during their time of grief. “He lived his life with pure soul as one would say, and for us, no-one did it better,” the family wrote. “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 the 1960s with the doo-wop group The Blenders, before later forming The Butlers, another soul group. However, it was with Maze, the band he formed in 1970 in Philadelphia (initially called Raw Soul), that Beverly achieved widespread fame. The group changed its name at the suggestion of legendary singer Marvin Gaye, who took them on tour as his supporting act.
Maze went on to release nine albums between 1977 and 1993, producing hits such as “Happy Feelings” and “While I’m Alone.” Beverly’s smooth vocals and heartfelt lyrics resonated with audiences for decades, establishing him as a defining voice in soul music.
One of Beverly’s most famous songs, “Before I Let Go,” received renewed attention in 2019 when Beyoncé covered it as a bonus track on her Homecoming: The Live Album. Beverly expressed his joy and surprise at the tribute, telling Billboard that it made him “feel bigger than ever.” He described Beyoncé’s cover as “one of the high points of [his] life.”
Frankie Beverly’s influence on music, particularly soul and R&B, will remain a lasting legacy. Fans and fellow musicians alike are mourning the loss of a legend whose career spanned decades and whose voice was synonymous with soulful, feel-good music.
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