There are those that are “Black famous”. Known and truly revered by the Black community…. Across generations….
That’s Frankie Beverly.
Noooooooo😪😪😪
RIP🙏🏾🙏🏾
rolandsmartin (@rolandsmartin) posted at 7:04 AM on Wed, Sep 11, 2024:
BREAKING NEWS: Frankie Beverly has passed away at the age of 77. We will pay tribute to him tonight on #RolandMartinUnfiltered on the @BlkStarNetwork at 6 pm EST. https://t.co/moR8vcjh6e
(https://x.com/rolandsmartin/status/1833838990895571397?s=02)
Essence:
A voice that’s united generations, songs that capture the ESSENCE of the Black experience, and a heart that was as pure as Gold as the records we spun.
Frankie Beverly’s artistry wasn’t just about sound; it was the very thread that stitched together our collective memories and moments of joy. His melodies will forever echo in our hearts and continue to inspire.
May the angels synchronize in unison and dance and give you one last standing ovation Before We Let Go.
We send our heartfelt condolences to his family and loved ones.
The legend. The architect. Mr. ESSENCE Festival himself. Job well done. Ascend. 🕊️
https://t.co/pY4N6wNj5v
(https://x.com/Essence/status/1833848873187442774?s=02)
God-is Rivera (@GodisRivera) posted at 9:30 AM on Wed, Sep 11, 2024:
Frankie Beverly & Maze is the closest thing to a sonic representation of what it FEELS like to be Black. It’s soulful, it’s emotional, it’s magical, it’s present. It’s joy. It’s pain. Sunshine & rain. We are truly one. Don’t know how else to explain it. May he rest in paradise🙏🏽
(https://x.com/GodisRivera/status/1833875713922912390?t=K8CK9rkm5F9xcRreMuYsVw&s=03)
New York Amsterdam News (@NYAmNews) posted at 7:39 AM on Wed, Sep 11, 2024:
R&B singer Frankie Beverly has died. His death was annouced this morning on social media by his family. Read more here: https://t.co/WbmeaLXtNX https://t.co/9sYgBYX0cE
(https://x.com/NYAmNews/status/1833847730260599038?s=02)
TV One (@tvonetv) posted at 7:36 AM on Wed, Sep 11, 2024:
It is with profound sadness that we share the passing of Mr. Frankie Beverly.Although the Urban One family is devastated by this loss, we are grateful we were able to give him his flowers earlier this year as our 2024 #UrbanOneHonors Living Legend Honoree. ❤️ https://t.co/5UoIgKN32E
(https://x.com/tvonetv/status/1833847045389484477?s=02)
NewsOne (@newsone) posted at 7:31 AM on Wed, Sep 11, 2024:
Today we mourn the passing of a musical legend – singer, songwriter, and producer Howard Stanley Beverly – known to the world as Frankie Beverly. Your contribution to music and the spirit of celebration will live in our hearts always.📸: Getty Images
#FrankieBeverly
#RIP https://t.co/KxzkdL7xeX
(https://x.com/newsone/status/1833845885026918408?s=02)
Johnta Austin (@johntalsr) posted at 8:15 AM on Wed, Sep 11, 2024:
All white linen at Essence Fest is a thing. And it’s a thing because of the great Howard “Frankie” Beverly!
The epitome of black joy through song! The height of feel good music. Made the greatest black cookout record of all time “Before I Let Go”
Rest easy Frankie! THANK YOU!
(https://x.com/johntalsr/status/1833856870810837162?t=B5ThYTS9oWRLYKkcRBo5cw&s=03)
JODY WATLEY (@jodywatley) posted at 3:39 PM on Wed, Sep 11, 2024:
Very saddened to learn of the news of the passing of the incomparable Frankie Beverly. His music legacy is one that will last forever, he brought so much joy and devotion as exemplified by one of THE MOST loyal fan bases in the history of music!!
All this without releasing anything new in decades but with timeless classics kept in heavy rotation – and the legions of fans always showing up and out at every concert in white 🤍through his recently completed farewell tour!!
Such a blessing, that no doubt warmed his heart each step of the way.
I’m glad he received his flowers as well on the Farewell Tour as well as honors from NAACP Awards & Black Music Honors upon retirement and he never had to doubt the love nor respect for him and his music, Maze ft. Frankie Beverly -it’s been here and never waned.
The music will continue to resonate with diehard fans of classic Soul & R&B for generations to come, soundtrack of so many lives. 🎶❤️
I had the pleasure to finally meet him in 2021, as a “Special Guest” on the bill of an appropriately titled Winter White Concert at Texas Trust Arena, and then at Microsoft Theatre in Los Angeles in 2022. Incredible to experiences, I’ll cherish forever!
In addition acknowledging him on The Jody Watley Show on Sirius a few months ago before he kicked off his Farewell Tour.
I think our photo from 2021 is a rare one without his signature baseball cap – but he was as excited to meet me as I was to meet him when he stepped out of his dressing room before I went onstage.
Rest in Paradise Frankie Beverly and We Love You & Thank You! ❤️🕊️🎶👑
#FrankieBeverly
https://t.co/kk4ybA6WHN
(https://x.com/jodywatley/status/1833968616506884374?t=oEr3p__ijlqrzYOhsfjjbg&s=03)
Be A King (@BerniceKing) posted at 8:39 AM on Wed, Sep 11, 2024:
Wow. A musical giant and legend who moved us all. His music transcended generations and always brought everyone to the dance floor at every party, gathering, and cookout. Although he is no longer with us in the flesh, we will continue to sing and dance to ‘Joy & Pain,’ ‘Before I Let Go,’ and so many others. Rest well, Legend.
#FrankieBeverly #Legend #RestInPeace
https://t.co/xUqfv4GGSe
(https://x.com/BerniceKing/status/1833862973456093266?t=ov8DwVni7QxdZBS1fgXsfQ&s=03)
Brandon Ousley (@brandonousley) posted at 5:20 PM on Wed, Sep 11, 2024:
Album of the day. Black America is in deep mourning. One of the all-time great voices and frontmen in soul music, Frankie Beverly, has transitioned. He may not have always been on the top of music critics’ minds when it came to soul greats, but trust, people knew he was a staple. His mellifuous voice melded joy with wonder; a soothing, thoughtful contrast from the traditional “lover man” trope in soul music. Ask any longtime fan of what comes to mind when they hear the name, Maze. You’ll probably come across those who’ll tell you about those slow-grinding, blue light basement parties. Backyard family barbecues. Chilling in the park. Summertime gatherings. Weekend wind-down music. Or, just plainly, good music that evokes the good old days. Furthermore, let someone announce they were coming to town and see if the show didn’t sell out in a matter of minutes. It’s a testamemt to Maze’s unwavering commitment to delivering feel-good, laid-back grooves. At the heart of it all, there are nourishing messages for people who struggle daily with trials and tribulations or searching for relief from the pain.
The band’s third album, Inspiration, stands out as my favorite in their short yet succulent catalog. It typically slips under the radar due to its lack of big hits. But it’s no less a first-rate showcase of how truly edifying this band’s music was. Pure soul-searching grooves from beginning to end—the gospel-infused opener, “Lovely Inspiration” with Sam Porter’s tuneful synths and Wayne Thomas’ Ernie Isley-influenced guitar lines in the mix to the sultry “Woman is a Wonder” that finds Beverly passionately singing on womankind being the center of the universe. The cut that hits deepest, for me, is “Ain’t it Strange,” a moving slow-burn on life’s changes and turnarounds that sounds all the more prophetic when reflecting on the rich legacy Frankie Beverly has left behind. A singular force who will be terribly missed.
https://t.co/1fzaWM5hjU
(https://x.com/brandonousley/status/1833994145095983373?t=tDG6DmMDQg7iMaZ5dR3ExQ&s=03)
Steve Harvey Radio (@SteveHarveyFM) posted at 7:19 AM on Wed, Sep 11, 2024:
Rest in Peace, Frankie Beverly. This morning, his family shared the heartbreaking news on Instagram that the iconic singer passed away on Tuesday, September 10th. We’re sending love and strength to his family, friends, and fans worldwide during this difficult time. ❤️ https://t.co/zGCaSRHDjD
(https://x.com/SteveHarveyFM/status/1833842847113420913?t=eWM31VroIG_XMpDUGEqIvQ&s=03)
Carmen Rodgers (@CarmenRodgers) posted at 2:20 PM on Wed, Sep 11, 2024:
Frankie Beverly is ours. They don’t have to know him or understand.
Thank you for your musical service. You have a multi-generational anthem that will forever be played at any and every celebration where Black Joy resides. Rest well Uncle Frankie.🕊️
(https://x.com/CarmenRodgers/status/1833948643503866077?t=mA6_Z3RrsDbVC4NoK1PHxA&s=03)
Ma$on (@FirstGentleman) posted at 8:35 AM on Wed, Sep 11, 2024:
Frankie Beverly was one of the few artists who was still selling packed out shows in the 2020’s based of the strength of the music he dropped in the 70’s and 80s. That’s a legend and an icon.
(https://x.com/FirstGentleman/status/1833861862380937394?t=Pmudi9WAPp7Dacz32LnYlQ&s=03)
That babies pappy (@SnizzyKnowsBest) posted at 8:25 AM on Wed, Sep 11, 2024:
You know what’s crazy about Frankie Beverly passing? Black folks are collectively mourning one of our favorite uncles and no one else would understand because he so exclusively was talking to us. Like Frankie made BLACK MUSIC. He sold out arenas with black music
(https://x.com/SnizzyKnowsBest/status/1833859432427532330?t=bUuK8tyw7VNmytNYMCBJfQ&s=03)
When We All Vote (@WhenWeAllVote) posted at 10:15 AM on Wed, Sep 11, 2024:
Today we say goodbye to a true legend, Frankie Beverly — the voice, the heart, and the soul behind Maze.
Frankie gifted us with timeless vibes through every note, capturing the joy, pain, love, and hope that defined a generation.
Sending condolences to his family and friends. https://t.co/SzBpY3R32Z
(https://x.com/WhenWeAllVote/status/1833886976040222765?t=jwkthQfhFQVR9xWZCZtRLA&s=03)
chromatic.
@juhmeer
i actually hate being black in corporate america bc frankie beverly just died, no i can’t jump on a quick call. have some respect.
https://x.com/juhmeer/status/1833857325163041029
E93-🅱️
@BmorreLikeMe
Lmfao we had an in person meeting today and son said let’s just have a moment of silence and this lady yelled out “FOR FRANKY BEVERLY I KNOW THATS RIGHT” and he was just like well no…for 9/11 😭
https://x.com/BmorreLikeMe/status/1833930043879555399
MonsterKing (@CerromeRussell) posted at 7:37 AM on Wed, Sep 11, 2024:
Finding out Frankie Beverly wasn’t his real name at the funeral is the blackest things ever. Rest easy legend.
(https://x.com/CerromeRussell/status/1833847309651656841?t=-gFhyLSaD79CMOosLrfJTQ&s=03)
Donnie Simpson (@DonnieSimpson) posted at 8:17 AM on Wed, Sep 11, 2024:
I don’t have words to express what I’m feeling this morning. I’ll try later maybe. Y’all know that was my boy.
I Love you so much my brother.
RIP 🙏🏽💔 https://t.co/XLuECul7nb
(https://x.com/DonnieSimpson/status/1833857370046234792?t=Mrd4z_6YYw4FNb3_8kySHg&s=03)
Kevín (@KevOnStage) posted at 8:24 AM on Wed, Sep 11, 2024:
In true Black fashion I did not know Frankie Beverly real name was Howard Stanley Beverly. I don’t know how he got the nickname Frankie but I do know he will be missed. 🕊️🕊️🕊️
(https://x.com/KevOnStage/status/1833859196007436543?t=hpVEVHez3IyH8XxNsORcfQ&s=03)
dream hampton (@dreamhampton) posted at 0:31 PM on Wed, Sep 11, 2024:
I always said Frankie Beverly’s transition would be a national day of mourning for Black folks and most white folks wouldn’t know who he was. R&B remains a pretty sacred, Black space. Thank you Frankie, for every Black wedding, family reunion and cookout I’ve ever been to.
(https://x.com/dreamhampton/status/1833921429458579812?t=Q-pQ6bP49TENVxZBpG_M4g&s=03)