R&B and funk legend Frankie Beverly has passed away at the age of 77.
His family confirmed the heartbreaking news in a statement shared on social media Wednesday morning.
“Grieving the loss of a loved one is a deeply personal and emotional experience. During this time, as we navigate feelings of sorrow, reflection, and remembrance, we kindly ask for privacy and understanding, allowing us the space to grieve in our own way,” the family wrote in a statement posted on Instagram. “This period is one of healing, and your respect for our need for solitude is appreciated as we honor the memory of our beloved Howard Stanley Beverly, known to the world as Frankie Beverly.”
The statement continued: “He lived his life with pure soul, and for us, no one did it better. He lived for his music, family, and friends. Love one another, as he would want that for us all.”
Beverly was born in Philadelphia and attended Germantown High School. In 1970, he formed the funk band Maze, originally known as Raw Soul, in his hometown.
Following the announcement of his passing, fans flooded the comments section with messages of condolence and memories. Many expressed their devastation over the loss of the American music icon.
“Frankie, you cheered us up through love and pain! Now we will celebrate you through your music forever and always, with sunshine & joy in our hearts!” one fan wrote.
“He did it his way… major loss of a dear friend and legend. Rest in peace. Prayers and condolences to the family,” another follower commented.
Sharing her memories of the late music star, another admirer wrote, “Sending my sincere condolences to the family. I finally got to see Mr. Beverly in D.C. this summer. I had the time of my life. His love for music and his fans will live on forever.”
Read more tributes and comments about the late Frankie Beverly below.