Frankie Beverly, the iconic soul singer and frontman of the renowned R&B group Maze, has died at the age of 77.
As reported by Breitbart News, the news was announced by his family on the official Frankie Beverly and Maze Facebook page,
Beverly, whose full name was Howard Stanley Beverly, was a multifaceted artist known for his roles as a singer-songwriter, producer, and guitarist.
He founded and led Maze, a group that Ebony magazine once dubbed "Black America's favorite band." The group rose to prominence in the late 1970s, becoming a staple in the R&B music scene.
Maze, initially a seven-piece group that later expanded to eight members, made a significant impact on the R&B charts. Their music not only resonated with audiences of their time but also influenced future generations of artists. Many of their songs were later sampled by hip-hop artists, including notable names like 50 Cent and Wale.
Beverly's influence extended beyond his own performances. His work laid the foundation for future artists in both R&B and hip-hop genres, showcasing the enduring appeal of his musical style.
Despite the group's success within the R&B community, Beverly had expressed some frustration that Maze never achieved more mainstream recognition. However, he seemed to find solace in the band's dedicated fan base and their ability to continue performing their brand of old-school R&B.
Earlier this year, Beverly concluded a farewell tour with Maze, marking the end of an era for the group's live performances. However, his passion for music remained evident as he made a guest appearance at the San Jose Jazz Summer Fest in August, demonstrating his enduring love for performing.
The family's announcement of Beverly's passing highlighted the profound impact he had on those closest to him. They shared:
Grieving the loss of a loved one is a deeply personal and emotional experience. 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.
Beverly's career was characterized by a unique position in the music industry. In a 1994 interview with the Baltimore Sun, he reflected on the band's niche status:
I wish more people did know who I was, but if it's at the expense of me giving up this thing we have, then I just have to wait until they find out. 'Cause whatever we have, whatever this thing is that we seem to have a part of, it's a cult kind of thing.
This statement encapsulates Beverly's understanding of Maze's special place in music history - a band that may not have achieved widespread mainstream success but cultivated a deeply loyal and appreciative fan base.
Frankie Beverly's passing marks the end of an era in R&B music. As the founder and lead singer of Maze, he left an indelible mark on the genre, influencing both his contemporaries and future generations of artists.
His dedication to his craft, evident in his recent performances, showcased a lifelong commitment to music. Beverly's legacy as a soul singer, songwriter, and performer will continue to resonate within the R&B community and beyond.
