Emily Zemler
Updated on: October 11, 2024 7:49 am GMT
Frankie Beverly, the prominent frontman of the R&B group Maze, has passed away at the age of 77. His family confirmed the news through a social media post, which did not reveal the cause of death. Beverly’s legacy as a soulful singer and songwriter, known for hit songs including “Back in Stride” and “Before I Let Go,” leaves an indelible mark on the music industry.
A Lasting Musical Legacy
Beverly’s impact on the music scene was significant, albeit often overshadowed by contemporaries like Earth, Wind & Fire and Parliament-Funkadelic. The signature sound of Maze, characterized by Beverly’s smooth baritone and infectious melodies, has become a staple in R&B and funk music. The farewell message from his family reflected on his life filled with passion for music, family, and friendships, urging fans to “Love one another, as he would want that for us all.”
Early Life and Musical Beginnings
Born Howard Stanley Beverly on December 6, 1946, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, Beverly’s musical journey began in the church, where he sang gospel music. At just 12 years old, he joined a local vocal quartet called the Silhouettes. This early exposure to music inspired him to form his own a cappella doo-wop group, the Blenders, during his teenage years at Germantown High School.
When the Blenders disbanded, Beverly formed a new group, the Butlers, in 1963. The Butlers recorded several singles for local labels, including “If That’s What You Wanted” and “The Sun’s Message.” As Beverly’s talents emerged, he caught the attention of songwriter and producer Kenny Gamble, who signed the group to Gamble Records. However, their sound did not align with Gamble and his partner Leon Huff’s vision of the “Sound of Philadelphia” soul, leading Beverly to seek new opportunities.
Formation of Maze and Rise to Fame
In 1971, Beverly and his group, then known as Raw Soul, relocated to San Francisco. During this time, they garnered the attention of Marvin Gaye, who not only became a fan but also helped them secure a record deal with Capitol Records. Under Gaye’s guidance, the group changed its name to Maze.
Maze’s self-titled debut album was released in 1977, featuring early hits such as “Happy Feelin’s,” “While I’m Alone,” and “Lady of Magic.” The group’s combination of deep grooves, compelling lyrics, and Beverly’s distinctive voice quickly resonated with audiences. Over the years, Maze released five additional albums through Capitol, solidifying their position in the R&B genre.
Later Career and Continued Influence
In 1989, Beverly and Maze made a transition to Warner Bros., releasing the album “Silky Soul,” a tribute to Marvin Gaye. This marked a significant phase in their career, despite the group’s last studio album, “Back to Basics,” coming in 1993. Beverly’s music continued to influence a new generation as hip-hop artists sampled Maze’s tracks, most notably Rob Base & DJ E-Z Rock’s use of the chorus from “Joy and Pain” for their 1988 hit.
Throughout the years, Beverly maintained an active touring schedule and was celebrated for his engaging performances. Maze’s music has remained a favorite at weddings, parties, and various celebrations, attesting to its timeless appeal. Earlier this year, Beverly received a lifetime achievement honor at the NAACP Image Awards, recognizing his contributions to the music industry.
Final Stages and Retirement Tour
Maze concluded its retirement tour with an emotional concert at Philadelphia’s Dell Music Center in July 2023. The performance was met with nostalgia and heartfelt appreciation from fans who cherished the group’s music and Beverly’s unique presence on stage.
As the music world mourns the loss of Frankie Beverly, his contributions and the legacy of Maze are certain to endure. His smooth vocals and the soulful rhythms of the group will continue to resonate with listeners, reminding them of an era defined by rich musical artistry.
Beverly’s music has touched many songwriters, fans, and friends. They will remember him and the way his songs made them feel better for a long time.
