Frankie Beverly, the iconic lead singer of Maze who inspired generations with timeless anthems, dies at 77.

 Frankie Beverly, the iconic lead singer of Maze who inspired generations with timeless anthems, dies at 77.

Frankie Beverly, the legendary frontman of Maze who inspired generations with his smooth, soulful voice and timeless hits like “Before I Let Go,” has passed away at 77.

His family announced his death on the band’s website and social media, requesting privacy during this time. The statement highlighted that Beverly “lived his life with a pure soul, as one would say, and for us, no one did it better.” The cause and location of his death were not disclosed.

Beverly, known for songs such as “Joy and Pain,” “Love is the Key,” and “Southern Girl,” completed his farewell “I Wanna Thank You Tour” in Philadelphia, his hometown, in July. That same month, the Essence Festival of Culture in New Orleans honored Beverly and Maze with a special tribute. The band had famously closed out the festival for its first 15 years, and Beverly's performances, often marked by his signature white attire, would turn the event into a massive celebration of dance and joy.

"Frankie Beverly’s artistry wasn’t just about sound; it was the very thread that stitched together our collective memories and moments of joy," the festival organizers said in a statement. "His melodies will forever echo in our hearts and continue to inspire."

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Marc Morial, president of the National Urban League and former New Orleans mayor, reflected on Maze's 1981 album *Live In New Orleans,* which solidified the city’s deep connection to Beverly. Morial, a frequent attendee of Maze’s festival performances, recalled watching the crowd, “joyful like a choir,” sing every word with Beverly. 

“His music had feeling. It carried themes of love, happiness, family, and togetherness,” Morial said. “It was electric, magical, and it’s what made us fall in love with him.”