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## Frankie Beverly, Soulful Voice of Maze, Passes Away at 77

 

**New Orleans, LA (October 26, 2023)** – Frankie Beverly, the legendary lead singer of the iconic R&B group Maze, has passed away at the age of 77. His family announced the news on Tuesday, October 24th, 2023, through the band's official website and social media channels, requesting privacy during this difficult time. While the cause of death was not disclosed, Beverly's passing marks the end of an era for soul music and leaves a void in the hearts of countless fans worldwide.

## Frankie Beverly, Soulful Voice of Maze, Passes Away at 77

Beverly's influence on music

 cannot be overstated. With his smooth, soulful voice and captivating stage presence, he created timeless anthems that resonated across generations.  From the romantic balladry of "Before I Let Go" to the infectious energy of "Joy and Pain," Beverly's music became a soundtrack for countless celebrations, moments of joy, and shared experiences in Black communities and beyond.

 

Born Howard

 Stanley Beverly on December 6, 1946, in Philadelphia, his love for music was evident from a young age. Inspired by the iconic 1950s R&B group Frankie Lymon and The Teenagers, he adopted the stage name "Frankie" and began his musical journey.

 

In the early 1970s, Beverly formed the group Raw Soul in Philadelphia. The band's raw energy and soulful sound attracted attention, eventually leading them to relocate to the vibrant San Francisco Bay Area. It was there that legendary singer Marvin Gaye played a pivotal role in shaping Beverly's destiny. Gaye, recognizing Beverly's talent and the band's potential, convinced him to rename the group Maze and helped them secure a record deal with Warner Bros. Records.

 

In 1977, Maze, featuring Frankie Beverly, released their self-titled debut album, marking the beginning of a remarkable career. The album's success was fueled by hits like "Happy Feelin's" and "We Are One," establishing the group as a major force in the soul music scene.

 

Over the next two decades,

 Maze released a string of critically acclaimed albums, including "Live in New Orleans," "Inspiration," and "Silky Soul," solidifying their position as one of the most influential and beloved R&B acts of their time. Beverly's songwriting ability, coupled with his unique vocal style and the band's tight, funky arrangements, created a distinctive sound that transcended generations.

 

His impact extended far beyond the music itself. Beverly's songs became interwoven into the fabric of Black culture, serving as anthems for celebrations, gatherings, and moments of collective joy. "Before I Let Go,"  a 1981 single from the "Live in New Orleans" album,  became a cultural touchstone, its infectious rhythm and heartfelt lyrics guaranteeing a dance floor packed with energy and excitement. It was later covered by global superstar Beyoncé, further cementing its place in contemporary musical history.

 

The Essence Festival

of Culture in New Orleans, a cornerstone of the Black community, played a significant role in Frankie Beverly and Maze's enduring legacy.  Beverly's performances at the festival transformed the crowd into a sea of dancing fans, often clad in white clothing, echoing his signature style. For the first 15 years of the festival, Maze consistently closed out the event, creating unforgettable moments that cemented their place in New Orleans' cultural landscape.

 

In a statement following his passing, Essence Festival organizers highlighted Beverly's artistic impact, stating: "Frankie Beverly's artistry wasn't just about sound; it was the very thread that stitched together our collective memories and moments of joy. His melodies will forever echo in our hearts and continue to inspire."

 

Marc Morial, President of the National Urban League and former Mayor of New Orleans, echoed these sentiments, noting that the 1981 album "Live in New Orleans" solidified the city's relationship with Beverly. Morial, a dedicated fan, often sat in the front row during Maze's festival performances, witnessing firsthand the powerful impact of Beverly's music on the audience.  "His music had feeling. It had positive themes of love, happiness, family and togetherness," Morial reflected. "It was just electrical and magical and it’s what made us fall in love with him.”

 

Beyond his musical legacy,

 Beverly's kindness and generosity touched many lives. He was known for his down-to-earth nature and his genuine connection with fans.  In interviews, he consistently expressed gratitude for the support he received throughout his career, attributing his success to a higher power.

 

His final tour, appropriately titled "I Wanna Thank You," concluded in his hometown of Philadelphia in July 2023.  The tour was a testament to his lasting impact and served as a poignant farewell to his devoted fans.

 

Frankie Beverly's passing leaves a void in the world of soul music.  His voice, his music, and his legacy will continue to inspire and resonate with generations to come.  His music, with its themes of love, joy, and togetherness, serves as a reminder of the unifying power of music and its ability to transcend time and space.

 

Though his physical presence is gone, his soulful voice will forever echo in the hearts of his fans, a testament to the enduring power of music and the lasting impact of a true musical icon.

 

**Keywords:** Frankie Beverly, Maze, R&B, soul music, Essence Festival, Before I Let Go, Joy and Pain, Marvin Gaye, New Orleans, Philadelphia, music legend, musical icon, 

 

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