Music fans in Philadelphia and across the world have reason to mourn as legendary R&B artist, songwriter and producer Frankie Beverly has died.
He was 77 years old.
On Wednesday morning, Beverly’s family announced the founder of the funk and soul band Maze — who was born Howard Stanley Beverly — died the day before.
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“Grieving the loss of a loved one is a deeply personal and emotional experience,” the family said.
“During this time, as we are navigating feelings of sorrow, reflection, and remembrance, we kindly ask for privacy and understanding, allowing us the space to grieve in our own way.
“This period for is one of healing, and your respect for our need for solitude is appreciated as we honour the memory of our beloved Howard Stanley Beverly, known to the world as Frankie Beverly.”
The family’s statement continued to say Beverly “lived his life with pure soul as one would say, and for us, no one did it better”.
“He lived for his music, family and friends,” it said.
“Love one another, as he would want that for us all.”
Beverly was born in Philadelphia and attended Germantown High School in his youth.
According to NBC10’s newsgathering partner, the Philadelphia Tribune, his musical career began when he founded the Blenders before moving on to record several songs with the Butlers.
“After catching the attention of legendary songwriter and producer Kenny Gamble, the group had several releases under Philly-based record label Cameo Parkway,” wrote Tribune correspondent OJ Spivey on Beverly’s beginnings after the musician was recently honoured by having the 6000 block of Norwood St in Germantown named in his honour.