A Soulful Farewell: Remembering Frankie Beverly
The world of soul music lost a giant on September 10, 2024, when Frankie Beverly, the iconic voice of Maze, passed away at the age of 77. His family announced his death, leaving fans and communities across the nation to mourn a man whose music became the soundtrack of their lives.
But the sorrow was quickly met with celebration. In the days that followed, cities with deep ties to Beverly and his music—Philadelphia and New Orleans—held unique and heartfelt funeral tributes that honored his joyful spirit and lasting legacy.
Philadelphia’s Joyful Tribute
Dancing in the Streets for a Hometown Hero
In his birth city of Philadelphia, the community gathered not for a somber funeral, but for a vibrant celebration of life. On September 12, on the street named in his honor, Frankie Beverly Way, fans and loved ones danced the night away.
This was a party, just as he would have wanted. As his timeless hit “Before I Let Go” filled the air, people shared memories and released balloons, paying tribute to a hometown hero who showed them that success was possible.
One attendee, Cindy Bass, captured the feeling perfectly, saying, “Frankie Beverly really has been not only a part of Philadelphia but really the soundtrack to our lives.” It was a sentiment echoed by all who gathered to celebrate the man and his music.
New Orleans’ Second Line Send-Off
A Funeral Parade in True Crescent City Style
New Orleans, a city that held a special place in Beverly’s heart, gave him a farewell unlike any other. On September 16, a massive crowd gathered for a traditional second line funeral parade, a true New Orleans-style send-off.
Thousands of people, many dressed in his signature all-white attire, followed a clear casket bearing a cutout image of the singer. The parade wound through the historic Tremé neighborhood, with somber jazz music echoing under the Claiborne underpass.
Organized by the 6th Ward Steppers, the event was a powerful display of the city’s love for an artist who, despite his Philly roots, had become an integral part of New Orleans’ cultural fabric. His 1981 album, “Live in New Orleans,” cemented that bond forever.
The Man Behind the Music
From Philly Roots to Global Stardom
Born Howard Stanley Beverly, he started his journey singing in church in Philadelphia. In the 1970s, he formed the band Raw Soul and moved to San Francisco, where a chance encounter with Marvin Gaye changed everything.
Gaye took the band on tour and suggested a new name: Maze. From there, Maze featuring Frankie Beverly became a force in R&B and funk, releasing a string of eight gold albums.
Though they never achieved mainstream crossover success, their impact on the R&B charts was undeniable, with hits like “Happy Feelin’s,” “Joy and Pain,” and “Golden Time of Day.”
The Enduring Anthem: “Before I Let Go”
A Song That Became a Cultural Touchstone
Of all his hits, none has had the lasting power of “Before I Let Go.” Released in 1981, the song became an unofficial Black national anthem, a staple at cookouts, family reunions, and celebrations everywhere.
Its infectious groove and Beverly’s smooth, heartfelt vocals created a timeless classic. The song’s cultural significance was further cemented in 2019 when Beyoncé released a celebrated cover, introducing his music to a new generation.
Beverly himself was humbled by the song’s longevity, admitting he never imagined it would become the phenomenon it did. It was simply a good record that captured a feeling, and in doing so, captured the hearts of millions.
A Legacy of Joy and Unity
How His Music Will Live On
Frankie Beverly’s legacy is one of pure soul and joy. His music was more than just entertainment; it was a source of healing and unity for the Black community, providing a soundtrack for both good times and bad.
His live performances were legendary, known for their energy and the powerful connection he forged with his audience. As his family stated, “He lived his life with pure soul as one would say, and for us, no one did it better.”
The Final Bow: A Farewell Tour to Remember
Earlier in 2024, Beverly had announced his retirement, embarking on the “I Wanna Thank You” Farewell Tour. It was a chance for fans to see him one last time and for him to pass the torch to a new lead vocalist, Tony Lindsay.
The band will continue as Maze Honoring Frankie Beverly, ensuring that the music and the legacy will carry on, just as he wished.
A Chorus of Tributes
From Philadelphia to New Orleans and beyond, the tributes to Frankie Beverly were a testament to his impact. He was more than a singer; he was a cultural icon whose music brought people together.
While the official funeral services were private, the public celebrations in the streets were a fitting farewell to a man who gave the world so much joy. His music will continue to play on, a timeless reminder of a legend who will never be forgotten.
