FRANKIE BEVERLY & MAZE

Biography

Frankie Beverly & Maze is an iconic American soul and R&B group led by Howard 'Frankie' Beverly, whose smooth vocals and songwriting defined the band's signature sound. Born in Philadelphia in 1946, Beverly began his musical journey singing in church and forming doo-wop groups like The Blenders and The Butlers during his teens. After moderate local success, Beverly moved to California in the early 1970s, seeking broader opportunities. There, he formed the band Raw Soul, which later became Maze after being discovered and mentored by Marvin Gaye. Gaye's support, including taking the band on tour as his opening act, was pivotal in launching Maze's national career.

Maze featuring Frankie Beverly released their debut album in 1977, quickly earning acclaim for their unique blend of soul, R&B, and funk. Throughout the late 1970s and 1980s, the group released a string of gold albums and classic singles such as 'Joy and Pain,' 'Before I Let Go,' and 'Happy Feelin’s.' Their music is characterized by heartfelt lyrics, infectious grooves, and a 'quiet storm' style that resonated deeply with audiences. Renowned for their electrifying live performances, Maze developed a devoted following and became a staple of the R&B concert circuit, even as mainstream chart-topping success eluded them.

Frankie Beverly & Maze's legacy is cemented by their influence on subsequent generations of R&B and soul artists, their enduring popularity, and their reputation for musical integrity and authenticity. Their songs remain anthems within the genre, and their impact is evident in the work of contemporary musicians who cite Beverly and Maze as inspirations.

Fun Facts

• Maze was originally called Raw Soul before Marvin Gaye suggested the name change.
• Despite never achieving major mainstream chart success, Maze maintained a devoted fan base and regularly sold out concerts for decades.
• Their song 'Before I Let Go' is considered a classic R&B anthem and is a staple at family gatherings and celebrations, especially in African American communities.
• Frankie Beverly was known for always performing in all-white outfits, a tradition that became a signature of Maze's live shows.

Musical Connections

Mentors/Influences

• Marvin Gaye - Discovered Maze, took them on tour as his opening act, and encouraged the name change from Raw Soul to Maze. (Maze's early albums and tours) [Early to mid-1970s]
• Kenny Gamble - Philadelphia producer who worked with Beverly and The Butlers, contributing to his early musical development. (Recordings with The Butlers) [Late 1960s]

Key Collaborators

• Maze (band members) - Core group performing and recording as Maze featuring Frankie Beverly. (All Maze albums and live performances) [1970s–2024]
• The Butlers - Early doo-wop group formed by Beverly in Philadelphia. (Local singles such as 'The Sun's Message' and 'She Tried to Kiss Me') [Early to mid-1960s]

Artists Influenced

• Beyoncé - Covered 'Before I Let Go' in 2019, bringing Maze's music to a new generation. (Homecoming: The Live Album) [2019]
• Contemporary R&B and soul artists - Maze's style and songwriting have been widely cited as influential in the development of modern R&B and 'quiet storm' genres. (Various artists' works) [1980s–present]

Discography

Albums

Top Tracks

1. Before I Let Go
2. We Are One
3. Can't Get over You (Silky Soul)
4. Joy And Pain - Remastered 2004 (Joy And Pain (Remastered 2004))
5. We Are One - Remastered 2004 (We Are One (Remastered))
6. The Morning After (Back To Basics)
7. Golden Time Of Day - Remastered (Golden Time Of Day (Remastered))
8. Happy Feelin's - Remastered 2004 (Maze Featuring Frankie Beverly (Remastered 2004))
9. Before I Let Go (Live In New Orleans)
10. While I'm Alone - Remastered 2004 (Maze Featuring Frankie Beverly (Remastered 2004))

External Links

• Spotify
• Wikipedia