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The soul music world is mourning the loss of one of its pioneers, Frankie Beverly, who has passed away at the age of 77. His family announced his death in a statement on Tuesday, September 11, saying, “He lived his life with pure soul, as one would say, and for us, no one did it better.”
Born Howard Stanley Beverly, Frankie rose to fame in the 1960s, becoming part of bands such as The Blenders and The Butlers before forming the renowned group Maze. From hit songs like “Before I Let Go” to “Happy Feelin’s,” the Philadelphia native made a lasting impact on the soul music genre.
The Beverly family shared the news of his passing on Instagram, stating, “Grieving the loss of a loved one is a deeply personal and emotional experience. During this time, as we navigate 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 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.”
While his cause of death was not disclosed, the family 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 have wanted that for us all.”
As news of his passing spread on social media, many people began sharing their support and memories of what Frankie and his music meant to them. “He left this world just the way he may have wanted, with a farewell tour as if he knew the day was near. You will forever be in our hearts,” one user wrote under the family’s post on Instagram.
Another person commented, “I’m 37 and play this man every day; the impact he had on Black households is unmatched. Our cleaning Saturdays started with his music. My family would take us every year to the Houston Rodeo, and Maze headlined all the time when I was a young girl. I was so hurt when I missed his last concert this past year. To wake up and see this really broke my heart. Frankie Beverly is and forever will be one of a kind!”
