Frankie Beverly, the legendary frontman of R&B, soul and funk band Maze, has passed away.
His family released a statement confirming his passing Wednesday morning (September 11).
According to the Instagram post, Beverly, whose real name is Howard Stanley Beverly, passed away on Tuesday (September 10).
“Grieving the loss of a loved one is a deeply personal and emotional experience,” the statement began.
“During this time, as we are navigating feelings of sorrow, reflection, and remembrance we kindly ask for privacy and understanding, allowing us the space to grieve in our own way. This period for is one of healing, and your respect for our need for solitude is appreciated as we honor the memory of our beloved Howard Stanley Beverly known to the world as Frankie Beverly.”
The statement continued, “He lived his life with pure soul as one would say, and for us, no one did it better. He lived for his music, family and friends. Love one another as he would want that for us all.”
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The family has not released any details about his death and is politely asking for privacy and understanding during this time of healing.
Beverly was an iconic R&B/Soul singer, songwriter, and producer, best known as the founder and frontman of the funk band Maze, originally called Raw Soul in 1970.
Born on December 6, 1946, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, Beverly began his musical journey in the 1960s with a doo-wop group called The Blenders. Later, he formed a soul group called The Butlers, which saw some regional success.
Then in the early 1970s, the soul artist moved to the San Francisco Bay Area and formed Maze. Their big break came when Marvin Gaye, a fan of their sound, invited them to open for his tour.
In 1977, Maze released their debut album, Maze Featuring Frankie Beverly, which featured iconic hits like “Happy Feelin’’s” and “While I’m Alone.”
A voice that’s united generations, songs that capture the ESSENCE of the Black experience, and a heart that was as pure as Gold as the records we spun.
Frankie Beverly’s artistry wasn’t just about sound; it was the very thread that stitched together our collective memories and… pic.twitter.com/pY4N6wNj5v
— ESSENCE (@Essence) September 11, 2024
So glad that Frankie Beverly got to feel all the love across the country on his farewell tour this year. Rest easy, legend! Your music will continue to bring together families for generations to come! (Video: IG/frankiebeverlyandmaze). pic.twitter.com/qBMxA94Q5q
— DJ Heat (@DJHeatDC) September 11, 2024
Earlier this year, Beverly closed the chapter on his iconic 50-year career.
His final tour, aptly named the “I Wanna Thank You Farewell Tour,” kicked off in March and culminated in an emotional final show in his hometown of Philadelphia this past July.
Rest with the angels, Frankie. Your voice, your spirit, and the joy you brought through your music will live on forever.
