Singer Frankie Beverly, known for his band Maze and their anthem “Before I Let Go,” passed away at the age of 77, as announced by his family on Tuesday. The family’s statement, posted on the band’s social media accounts, requested privacy as they grieve the loss of their beloved Howard Stanley Beverly. No cause of death was provided.
Born in Philadelphia, Beverly began his music career at an early age, performing as a soloist in church and later forming the group Maze. The band’s mix of soul, funk, and R&B garnered attention and they toured with Marvin Gaye as his opening act. Their hits include “Joy and Pain,” “Golden Time of Day,” “We Are One,” and “Before I Let Go,” which became a staple in the Black community and was covered by Beyoncé in 2019.
In 2012, Beverly received the Lifetime Achievement Award at the BET Awards and announced his retirement earlier this year.