Frankie Beverly, legendary Philadelphia soul and funk singer and frontman of Maze, has died at the age of 77.
“He lived his life with a pure soul, as one would say, and for us no one did it better. He lived for his music, his family and his friends,” his family said in a statement. “Love one another as he would have wanted for all of us.”
After moving from Philadelphia to San Francisco in the early 1970s, Beverly's big break came when she met Marvin Gaye, who invited Beverly and her band to open for him on tour. It was Gaye who also suggested that the band adopt the name Maze. Over the next few years, Beverly and Maze enjoyed considerable success, releasing nine gold albums and chart-topping hits such as “Back in Stride,” “Can't Get Over You,” and “Before I Let Go.”
Earlier this year, Beverly embarked on a farewell tour, announcing that Maze would continue to perform with lead vocalist Tony Lindsay in his place. “The band will continue as Maze Honoring Frankie Beverly,” he said. “It’s been a great journey through the decades. Let the music of my legacy live on.”
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