ATLANTA – Legendary R&B singer Frankie Beverly has died at the age of 77, his family announced on his Instagram page.

The announcement was made around 8 a.m. on September 11. According to the report, Beverly, whose real name is Howard Stanley Beverly, died on September 10.

The family has not released any details about his death, asking for privacy and understanding during the recovery period.

Beverly was an American singer, songwriter, and producer, best known as the founder and frontman of the R&B band Maze.

Born on December 6, 1946, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, Beverly’s musical career began in the 1960s with his doo-wop group, The Blenders. He later formed a soul group called The Butlers, which enjoyed some regional success.

In the early 1970s, Beverly moved to the San Francisco Bay Area and formed Maze. The band’s big break came when Marvin Gaye, a fan of Beverly’s sound, invited them to tour as his opening act. In 1977, Maze released their debut album, Maze Featuring Frankie Beverly, which featured the hits “Happy Feelin’s” and “While I’m Alone.”

Known for their smooth blend of soul, funk and R&B, Maze became a household name in the 70s and 80s music scene, producing classic tracks such as “Joy and Pain”, “Before I Let Go” and “Golden Time of Day”.

In 2009, his son Anthony organized a tribute album for his father titled “Silky Soul Music… an All-Star Tribute to Maze Featuring Frankie Beverly.” Mary J. Blige, Kenneth Brian Edmonds (Babyface) and Mint Condition were among the artists who appeared on the album.

After 50 years of performing and showing, the legendary artist gave his final concert in Philadelphia, at the Dell Music Center in North Philly, where Beverly had performed for decades.

Beverly’s signature style, with its soothing vocals and refined musicianship, has earned a loyal fan base that continues to thrive. Despite never achieving huge commercial success, Frankie Beverly and Maze remain icons of classic soul music, known for their live performances and timeless hits.

Tributes to the singer are pouring in on social media.