Music fans, both in Philadelphia and globally, are mourning the passing of legendary R&B artist, songwriter, and producer Frankie Beverly at the age of 77. The founder of the funk and soul band Maze, born Howard Stanley Beverly, passed away as announced by his family on Wednesday morning. The family’s message online requested privacy during this time of mourning, as they honor the memory of their beloved Howard Stanley Beverly, known as Frankie Beverly to the world.
Beverly, a Philadelphia native who attended Germantown High School, began his musical career by founding the Blenders before recording with the Butlers. He caught the attention of songwriter and producer Kenny Gamble and released several songs under the Cameo Parkway record label. Moving to the West Coast, Beverly’s group became known as Raw Soul, then Maze, releasing nine gold albums.
Maze’s classic song “Before I Let Go” remains popular, peaking at #13 on the Billboard R&B chart. The band’s timeless hits like “Joy and Pain,” “We Are One,” and “Can’t Get Over You” have left a lasting impact on music lovers worldwide. Before his passing, Beverly performed a farewell show in Philadelphia after 50 years of touring, leaving a legacy celebrated by fans, including Philadelphia Eagles quarterback, Jalen Hurts.
The cause of Beverly’s death has not been disclosed by his family.
Vocabulary List:
- Legendary /ˈlɛdʒ.ənˌdɛr.i/ (adjective): Remarkable enough to be famous; very well-known.
- Mourning /ˈmɔrnɪŋ/ (noun): The expression of deep sorrow for someone who has died.
- Legacy /ˈlɛɡəsi/ (noun): Something handed down by a predecessor; an impact or contribution that is remembered after someone’s death.
- Timeless /ˈtaɪm.ləs/ (adjective): Not affected by the passage of time or changes in fashion.
- Impact /ˈɪm.pækt/ (noun/verb): The strong effect or influence of something; to have a strong effect on something.
- Disclosed /dɪsˈkloʊzd/ (verb): To make something known or reveal information.
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