Singer-songwriter and founder of the legendary band Maze, Frankie Beverly, has passed away at the age of 77, according to a post on his Instagram page penned by his family. The R&B staple, whose smooth voice and timeless anthems like “Before I Let Go” and “Joy and Pain,” retired this past Summer and performed for the last time during the band’s farewell tour. 

A Philadelphia native, Beverly, born Howard Beverly, began his career in the late 1960s after being discovered by producer Kenny Gamble, but it was with Maze that he found enduring success. The band and Beverly became a mainstay — in their signature all white — at R&B and jazz festivals alike, thanks to the band’s unique blend of soul, funk, and gospel.

Over the years, Beverly's music became synonymous with celebrations, family gatherings, and cultural milestones within the Black community. "Before I Let Go" in particular became an anthem, played at countless weddings, cookouts, and reunions, cementing his place as a beloved figure in the culture.

Though Maze never received mainstream accolades such as Grammys, Beverly was honored by those who cherished him the most—his own community. In 2024, the NAACP Image Awards honored Beverly with a Lifetime Achievement Award, and the BET Awards honored him in 2012.

Beverly's influence in the music industry was undeniable. Artists from Beyoncé to Jay-Z cited him as an inspiration, and his contributions to music have been widely praised by fans and critics alike. His timeless sound transcended generations, earning him a spot among the greats of R&B and soul.