For the past 61 years, the Philadelphia native, Frankie Beverly amazed, entertained and, dare I add, soothed the world with his artistic offerings. He began his musical journey in 1963 and some years later he found the right formula. He single-handedly procured and assembled the band Raw Soul in 1970. The band started to tour and became the opening act for legendary Motown crooner, Marvin Gaye. It was during this time that Mr. Gaye christened the band “MAZE”. Since then, Maze featuring Frankie Beverly took the world by storm. Worldwide touring and major recording sales catapulted them into being a staple and favorite for many music lovers. With hit songs like “Before I Let Go”, “Happy Feelings”, “Back In Stride”, and the sonically mesmerizing, “We Are One”, to name a few, they have become woven into the fabric of American communities especially; within the Black Culture.
Their music legacy spans through generations and the ever-changing technology that facilitates how those generations receive their music. As technical delivery of music evolved through the years, starting with vinyl records, onto 8-track tapes, cassette tapes, compact discs and now digital streaming, the sales for their art has not wavered. Holding a reputation for being one of the most consummate live performing bands, Maze featuring Frankie Beverly’s impact has an audience that is global in scale. Their music continues to touch souls and hearts around the world. This was very evident when they set out on their “I Wanna Thank You”, farewell tour. At every event, every seat was filled with music lovers paying homage to the art, the legacy and the undeniable talent of this award-winning group.
With honor and great respect, I feel compelled to add my offering to a legend of music and the MC of all my family functions, memories and experiences. From my earliest memories, Maze featuring Frankie Beverly’s music has been in my life. His musical presence felt almost like another family member. In sharing my feelings with others, it seems as if we were all feeling the same sentiments. Then, I wondered how his legacy of work affected other musicians and what impact/inspiration it had on them.
Here are a few sentiments from other musicians:
AQUILDAWUD (@aquildawud): “Frankie means the world to me. As a soul music enthusiast, especially being an artist from Philly, I am blessed to have been inspired by an artist like him. He is the reason that I aim to uplift and empower people with my music.”
FAITH EVANS (@therealfaithevans): “Maze featuring Frankie Beverly’s music is ubiquitous. As a child raised in church my access to secular music was limited. I however found ways to absorb some great RnB musical artists. Frankie Beverly was definitely one. When the opportunity rose for me to contribute my voice to celebrate in his honor, I was elated. ‘Happy Feelings’ is one of my favorites and I am blessed to have performed it for him.”
KHALIL AMARU (@khalil.amaru): “Maze featuring Frankie Beverly’s music has always been a constant in my life.” “For example, the timeless, Before I Let Go, has become the backdrop to countless cookouts and celebrations.” “As an upcoming RnB/Soul artist, that music continues to influence my sound, while also pushing me to be an artist to make timeless music.” “I’m driven to be more than just a viral moment.”
DAWN ROBINSON (@dawnrobinsondiva): “The minute I hear Maze featuring Frankie Beverly’s music, it brings back childhood memories of Saturday mornings. Since the 70’s their music has brought joy and a sense that everything is alright. My favorite song, ‘We Are One’, literally feels like love itself. To hear Maze featuring Frankie Beverly’s music is to feel real music.”
IVY SOLE (@ivysole): “I moved to Philadelphia at the age of 18, it never ceases to amaze me how much this city’s sound has shaped my taste and sensibilities. I feel supremely blessed to have never known a time without Mr. Frankie Beverly’s music. He was a writer’s writer and a singer’s singer who was completely clear on who he loved; all black people. The Frankie Beverly that I know croons and pines with no concern for saving face. He states plainly that he can’t get over you, for no other reason than it being true. That type of honest musical energy is what holds our communities together. Just like he would have wanted.”
NICCI GILBERT (@niccigilbert): “A few months ago Brownstone has the pleasure of sharing space, dancing and honoring the incomparable Mr. Frankie Beverly. Mr. Beverly was indeed a king and a giant. Maze featuring Frankie Beverly’s voice and music will forever be a part of the soundtrack of our lives. He was a master of energy and it’s impossible to define or appreciate soul music without honoring the legacy of this cultural icon. We love you Mr. Beverly and I will always have Happy Feelings when I hear your magical voice. Rest in paradise, King!”