Frankie Beverly — the soul singer from the R&B group Maze — has died. He was 77 years old. The Philadelphia native’s family confirmed the news in a public statement, which they released on September 11, 2024.
“Grieving the loss of a loved one is a deeply personal and emotional experience,” the Beverly family wrote in their statement. “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.”
In the statement, Frankie’s loved ones added that he “lived his life with pure soul as one would say, and for us, no one did it better” and that he “lived for his music, family and friends.”
“Love one another as he would want that for us all,” they concluded.
In honor of the late soul singer, Hollywood Life has gathered five facts about Frankie, below.
Frankie Beverly’s Real Name
Frankie’s birth name is Howard Stanley Beverly.
Frankie Beverly Has a Son
The late “Before I Let Go” singer’s son, Anthony, toured with Maze on drums.
He Founded Multiple Bands
When he was a teen, Frankie created an a cappella group known as The Blenders. After that, he founded The Butlers, who were also known as Frankie Beverly and The Butlers. Throughout the 1960s, the band released music and eventually moved from Philadelphia to San Francisco, where they changed the band’s name to Maze.
Did Frankie Beverly Have an Illness?
Since the R&B artist kept a private life throughout his music career, it’s unclear how Frankie died or whether he was battling any form of illness toward the end of his life.
He Advised Beyonce to ‘Sing’ More
During a 2014 interview with Ebony, Frankie complimented Beyoncé but pointed out that he wanted her to take the “next step” as an artist by recording different music other than pop.
“I think Beyoncé is ready to take her next step, and I tell you what I mean by that,” Frankie said, before elaborating, “She can really sing, but I would like to see her show her skills. I mean, she’s a mom and a wife now. So, I’d love to hear her record Christmas carols or perform live with an orchestra … just sing.”
Ten years later, Bey released her country music album, Cowboy Carter.