Frankie Beverly, renowned for the hit song “Before I Let Go” with his band Maze, has passed away at the age of 77.

The announcement of his passing was made by his family on the official Frankie Beverly and Maze Facebook page on Wednesday.

“He exemplified pure soul and there was no one quite like him,” the family expressed. “He dedicated his life to music, family, and friends. Let’s love one another as he would have wished for us.”

The family has requested privacy as they mourn the loss of the beloved soul singer.

“Losing a loved one is a very personal and emotional journey. We ask for your understanding and respect as we navigate this time of sorrow, reflection, and remembrance. This moment is about healing, and your consideration for our need for peace is greatly appreciated as we celebrate the memory of our dear Howard Stanley Beverly, known to the world as Frankie Beverly,” the family stated.

YSL News has reached out to Beverly’s representative for further comments.

Born in Philadelphia, Beverly founded Maze in 1970 under the initial name Raw Soul and opened for Marvin Gaye, who is said to have suggested the name Maze. The band, often referred to as Maze featuring Frankie Beverly, produced nine gold albums from the late 1970s to early 1990s, with popular tracks like “Joy and Pain,” “We Are One,” “Can’t Get Over You,” and “Golden Time of Day.”

However, the song “Before I Let Go,” from their fifth album, “Live in New Orleans,” released in 1981, is what Maze is most famous for. It has become a staple at Black cookouts, family gatherings, and other celebrations.

“‘Before I Let Go’ turned out to be something I never expected,” Beverly shared with Essence in 2020. “I feel truly blessed.”

This lively song, he further explained, reflects on a lost love.

“I was involved with a woman but was with someone else, and we broke up, which made things difficult since I was not with the person I wished to be,” he recalled.

In 2019, Beyoncé honored the song in her “Homecoming” film and live album after a standout performance at Coachella.

Beverly told Billboard that the platinum-selling cover was “one of the most significant moments” of his life.

The band remained active in recent years, continuing to perform in their iconic all-white attire at various festivals, including the recently completed six-city “I Wanna Thank You Tour,” which also marked Beverly’s retirement.

In March, Beverly received a lifetime achievement award at the NAACP Image Awards.