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“We will never forget you”
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“We will never forget you”

Tributes continue to pour in for the late Frankie Beverly after the tragic news sent shockwaves through the music and entertainment world worldwide.

In addition to Jalen Hurts, Luke James, Alex Isley and Sheila E. reacting to Beverly’s passing at the young age of 77, Beyoncé released an official statement through her company, Parkwood Entertainment.

The singer wrote: “Thank you Frankie Beverly for bringing us all together with your music. You have written some of the most inspiring and uplifting songs for the world to enjoy. Through your lyrics you have humanized our experiences, through joy and pain. Thank you for teaching us the importance of community, family and togetherness. We will never forget you. May you rest in strength.”

Beyoncé reinterpreted Maze and Beverly’s classic jam, “Before I Let Go,” in 2019. It reached number 65 on the Billboard Hot 100 after being featured in her music film, HOMECOMING.

The original album, written and produced by Beverly, debuted in 1981 and reached #13 on the Billboard R&B chart.

Before his death, the Philly native retired from music and was given his well-deserved flowers on his farewell tour. He was also honored with a special tribute curated by Bryan-Michael Cox at this year’s ESSENCE Fest. The likes of Doug E. Fresh, Bilal, Anthony Hamilton, Luke James, Jagged Edge and more showed up to honor the crooner as he took his final bow.

The Beverly family confirmed his death in a statement on Wednesday (Sept. 11). Asking for privacy as they grieve, they shared, “He lived his life with a pure soul, as one would say, and for us, no one did it better. He lived for his music, family and friends,” and urged fans to “love each other as he would want us all to love.”

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