Frankie Beverly the legendary lead singer of Mae has passed away at the age of 77 Beverly was known for his Soulful voice in Timeless anthems like Before I Let Go which have become Staples in Black communities across Generations his music characterized by themes of love joy and togetherness has left an indelible mark on RB and has been celebrated in venues from clubs to cookouts born Howard Stanley Beverly on December 6th 1946 in Philadelphia he was inspired by the 1950s group Frankie Lyman and the teenagers which led him to adopt the name Frankie ma originally named RW Soul started in Philadelphia before relocating to the San Francisco Bay area in the early 1970s with the encouragement of Marvin Gay they changed their name to mazee and released their debut album Maze featuring Frankie Beverly in 1977 the band smooth Soulful sound quickly resonated with fans earning them a devoted following Beverly songs including Joy and Pain love is the key and we are one became anthems that celebrated black culture and life his live performances particularly at the Essence Festival of culture New Orleans where he and Maize were a fixture for many years were legendary the festival's organizers and fans alike have spoken of the joy and unity his music brought to audiences Beverly's farewell tour the I want to thank you tour concluded in July in his hometown of Philadelphia the Essence Festival also paid tribute to him that month highlighting his deep connection to the event and its attendees Frankie Beverly's passing has left a significant void in the world of RB but his music will continue to inspire and bring joy to listeners for Generations to come as fans and fellow musicians mourn his loss his legacy As A Soulful icon remains secure