Howard Stanley Beverly, widely known to fans as Frankie Beverly, has passed away at the age of 77, leaving an indelible mark on the world of soul music. A native of Philadelphia, Beverly’s deep, smooth vocals and undeniable charisma made him one of the most revered figures in R&B. As the frontman of the band Maze, later known as Frankie Beverly & Maze, he crafted a sound that was soulful, uplifting, and timeless. His music, rich with themes of love, joy, and resilience, resonated across generations, earning him a devoted following that remained loyal for over five decades.
The news of his passing was shared via the band’s official Instagram page, where an emotional tribute announced the loss of the iconic singer. The post expressed the profound grief felt by Beverly’s loved ones, asking for privacy during this period of mourning. “This period for us is one of healing,” the post read, adding that Beverly “lived his life with pure soul” and was a beacon of love and unity. His family and bandmates thanked fans for their continued support, reflecting on his legacy as a musician who not only moved crowds but also lived with an infectious passion for his art, family, and friends.
Beverly’s breakthrough came in the early 1970s after relocating from Philadelphia to San Francisco, a move that would alter the course of his career. It was there that he met the legendary Marvin Gaye, who recognized Beverly’s talent and invited his band—then known as Raw Soul—to open for him on tour. Gaye’s mentorship proved pivotal, even advising the group to change their name to Maze. After signing with Capitol Records, the band released their self-titled debut album, Maze featuring Frankie Beverly, which included hits like “Happy Feelin’s” and “Lady of Magic.” The band’s smooth blend of funk, soul, and R&B became their signature, creating a sound that was both sophisticated and deeply emotive.
Over the years, Maze went on to release ten albums, nine of which achieved gold certification. Among their most enduring hits is “Before I Let Go,” which has become a staple at cookouts, weddings, and celebrations nationwide. Even Beyoncé covered the song in 2019, introducing it to a new generation of listeners. Though Beverly announced his farewell tour, I Wanna Thank You, earlier this year, his music will continue to live on, echoing in the hearts of those who found joy, solace, and inspiration in his songs. As fans, friends, and fellow artists take to social media to pay tribute, one thing is certain: Frankie Beverly’s legacy as a master of soul will continue to shine.
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