Legendary R&B singer Frankie Beverly, who was born in Philadelphia, has sadly passed away at 77 years old.
On the morning of September 11, 2024, Frankie Beverly’s family shared the sad news of his death on Instagram. Since then, they have spoken about his life, remembering the impact he had on music and the lasting legacy he leaves behind.
In an Instagram post, Frankie Beverly’s family confirmed that the singer, whose real name was Howard Stanley Beverly, passed away on Tuesday, September 10, 2024. The post said, “He lived his life with pure soul, and for us, no one did it better. He lived for his music, family, and friends.”
Frankie Beverly’s family has not shared any details about how he passed away and has asked for privacy during this tough time. They also encouraged people to “love one another,” saying this is what Frankie would have wanted for everyone.
The family said they are now focused on healing after their loss. They thanked everyone for respecting their need for privacy as they remember Frankie Beverly. They wrote, “Grieving the loss of a loved one is a very personal and emotional experience.”
Frankie Beverly was born in Philadelphia and was a big fan of the 1950s R&B group Frankie Lymon and The Teenagers. He liked them so much that he decided to change his name to Frankie.
Before becoming famous, Beverly spent time making music with different groups. Eventually, Marvin Gaye noticed him and suggested he change his band’s name from Raw Soul to Maze. In 1977, Marvin Gaye helped them release their first album, “Maze Featuring Frankie Beverly.”
Today, many people are sharing tributes to Frankie Beverly, who was the lead singer, songwriter, producer, and founder of the band Maze. Fans, other musicians, and friends are offering their sincere condolences to his family during this difficult time.
Jalen Hurts, a fan of Frankie Beverly’s music, shared a message on X (formerly Twitter). He wrote, “His timeless music, powerful words, and lasting impact. I’m devastated to hear about this one.”
Hurts sent his condolences and prayers to the Beverly family and fans all around the world. He also said, “His legacy will live on forever. Rest easy, my friend. Long Live Frankie 🕊️”
R&B singer and actress Patti LaBelle also shared a tribute to Frankie Beverly on Instagram. She wrote, “I love you Frankie! Thank you for always lifting us higher! Rest in love and peace! 🙏🏾❤️🙏🏾.” LaBelle posted these words along with a video of herself showing love and appreciation for Beverly, who had attended one of her concerts.
Earvin “Magic” Johnson, a businessman and former basketball player, wrote an emotional tribute to Frankie Beverly. He said, “I can’t begin to tell you how much I loved Frankie as a true musical artist, but even more as a person. He was a gentle soul and always gave fans their money’s worth with every performance.”
Johnson shared that he used to listen to Frankie Beverly’s music before every high school game to get pumped up. He also remembered how it was a dream come true for him when Beverly performed at his birthday party in Lansing after he was drafted.
Johnson described Frankie Beverly as a major figure in the music industry whose career lasted for decades and made a lasting impact. Beverly helped create the Essence Festival of Culture and received a lifetime achievement award for his contributions.
Frankie Beverly’s music has spanned generations, with his classic hit “Before I Let Go,” released over 40 years ago, still a favorite at weddings, cookouts, and special events.
Johnson pointed out that Beyoncé’s decision to remake “Before I Let Go” shows the lasting impact of Beverly’s music. He ended his tribute by saying, “As a tribute to him, I will be playing his music all day!”
Fans have also expressed deep sorrow over Frankie Beverly’s passing, sharing their grief and honoring the legendary singer. One fan wrote, “💔 No words to express what he meant to me and my family. Sending my deepest condolences to his family and friends. This hurts!”
Another fan shared, “I [am] literally in tears. Rest well, Frankie.” A third fan added, “I’m so heartbroken. I can’t stop crying. R.I.P. Frankie. You brought me joy when you hit the stage. 🕊 I’m going to put on white today in honor of you. 🙏🏾”
Many fans feel a strong connection to Frankie Beverly’s role in the Essence Festival of Culture, an event he was closely involved with for its first 15 years. The festival has become a vibrant celebration of Black culture, and Beverly’s contributions are deeply appreciated by those who attended and followed the event.
The Essence Festival of Culture brought together people from diverse backgrounds through dialogue, shared experiences, and a wide range of musical performances. In 2024, the festival featured electrifying performances by Janet Jackson and included a heartfelt tribute to Frankie Beverly and Maze, honoring their lasting impact on music and culture.
Frankie Beverly, who had announced his retirement from live performances, made his final appearance at the Essence Festival, marking the end of an era. The band’s farewell tour was a bittersweet goodbye to a significant chapter in their legendary career.
Now, his passing adds even more meaning to his legacy at the festival. Beverly left a lasting influence on both the event and its attendees, who honored him by wearing all white on the festival’s final day—a tradition inspired by his signature white outfits.
Kevia Stroder from Richmond, Texas, shared that when Frankie Beverly stopped attending the Essence Festival, many people she knew stopped going as well because of his absence. However, this year’s festival brought renewed excitement, as people were eager to see his band perform one last time.
Anita Brown from New Orleans noted that Frankie Beverly and Maze had truly defined the Essence Festival of Culture. Their performances created a unique atmosphere that kept audiences on their feet the entire time. She shared that no other soul artist or group had matched the impact they had on the festival and its audience.
Frankie Beverly revealed that he had a deep connection with the Essence Festival, and both he and his fans felt his absence profoundly when he stopped attending. Now, his admirers are mourning his loss and will deeply miss his presence, not only at the festival but in the broader music world as well.
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