Frankie Beverly, the legendary frontman of Maze, known for creating timeless anthems that inspired generations, has passed away at 77. His family announced the news on the band’s website and social media, reque
sting privacy during this time. The statement described his life as one lived with a "pure soul," adding, "for us, no one did it better." The cause and location of his death were not disclosed.
Beverly’s signature hits, including “Joy and Pain,” “Love is the Key,” and “Southern Girl,” left a lasting impact on the music world. His final performance took place in July during his farewell "I Wanna Thank You Tour" in his hometown of Philadelphia. That same month, the Essence Festival of Culture in New Orleans honored Beverly and Maze for their 15-year tradition of closing out the event. Known for his iconic performances, Beverly would turn the festival—the nation’s largest celebration of Black culture—into a sea of dancing fans, many dressed in white, mirroring his signature look.
"Frankie Beverly’s artistry wasn’t just about music; it was the thread that wove together our collective moments of joy and memories," said Essence Festival organizers. "His melodies will echo in our hearts forever and continue to inspire."
Marc Morial, president of the National Urban League and former mayor of New Orleans, reflected on Beverly’s deep connection to the city. Maze’s 1981 album *Live In New Orleans* solidified his relationship with New Orleans. Morial, who often attended Beverly's performances at the festival, recalled the crowd singing along like a “joyful choir.”
"His music had depth. It brought messages of love, happiness, and unity," Morial said. "It was electric and magical—that’s what made us fall in love with him."
Beverly’s songs have long been central to celebrations in Black communities, particularly the 1981 hit “Before I Let Go,” which Beyoncé famously covered. The song continues to be a dancefloor staple at clubs, cookouts, and parties. Hakeem Holmes, vice president of the Essence Festival, praised the healing and joyful power of Maze's music, noting that songs like “We Are One” bring people together in singalongs across generations.
In an interview with *Essence* magazine earlier this year, Beverly called music "the love of my life." When asked why his songs resonated across generations, he humbly said, "God made a path for my music to reach each one."
Born Howard Stanley Beverly on December 6, 1946, in Philadelphia, he was inspired by the 1950s R&B group Frankie Lymon and The Teenagers, which led him to adopt the name "Frankie." Maze began as Raw Soul in Philadelphia in the early 1970s before relocating to the San Francisco Bay Area. It was Marvin Gaye who encouraged the band to change their name to Maze and helped them release their debut album *Maze Featuring Frankie Beverly* in 1977.
Recalling the era, Beverly said in a 1990 interview with the Associated Press, "That kind of faith—you’re talking the ’60s, the hippie generation—it’s missing now, and I personally feel bad about that. We were ex-hippies."
Among those mourning his death was Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Jalen Hurts, who expressed his sorrow on social media, writing, "His timeless music, powerful words, and lasting impact—I'm devastated to hear about this one."
New Orleans resident and lifelong fan Sedrick T. Thomas, 64, said Beverly’s passing “leaves a chasm in the world of R&B.” He added, “I grew up on his music. I’m grateful for ‘Joy and Pain,’ ‘Southern Girl,’ ‘Happy Feelin’s,’ and ‘Before I Let Go.’ Though his music will live on, he will be deeply missed.”
