Frankie Beverly, the Maze singer

 

NEW ORLEANS (AP) — Frankie Beverly, who with his band Maze, inspired generations of fans with his smooth, soulful sound. and enduring songs like "Before I Let Go," has passed away. He was 77 years old. His family said in a post on the group's website and social media that Beverly died on Tuesday. In a post asking for privacy The family said “He lived his life with the purest spirit, as they say, and for us, no one did it better.” The post did not specify a cause of death or location. Beverly, whose songs include "Joy and Pain", "Love is the Key" and "Southern Girl", wrapped up her farewell show "I Wanna Thank You Tour" in her hometown of Philadelphia in July and That same month in New Orleans at the Essence Culture Festival… -The festival included an homage to Beverly and the Maze that completed its first 15 years. His performance at the festival, the country's largest annual celebration of black culture, turned the crowd into fans. dancing, many of them nearly as white as With Beverly... “Frankie's art. Beverly isn't just about the sound. It is just a thread woven from our memories and happy moments,” organizers said in a statement. “His passion will forever resonate and inspire in our hearts.”