Legendary soul singer Frankie Beverly dies at 77

Frankie Beverly, soul singer and founder of the legendary funk band Maze, has passed at the age of 77. His family has asked for privacy during this period of mourning.

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News of Beverly’s passing the previous day was announced on Wednesday, September 11, by his family in a Facebook post.

"Grieving the loss of a loved one is a deeply personal and emotional experience. During this time, as we are navigating feelings of sorrow, reflection, and remembrance we kindly ask for privacy and understanding, allowing us the space to grieve in our own way,” the statement reads.

“This period for 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," it continues. "He lived his life with pure soul as one would say, 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.”

After changing the name from Raw Soul at the behest of iconic singer Marvin Gaye, who took them on the road with him, Beverly's Maze -- aka Maze Featuring Frankie Beverly and Frankie Beverly & Maze -- formed in Philadelphia, PA in the early '70s, went on to score massive hits with the singles "Before I Let Go," "Back in Stride," "Can't Get Over You," "The Morning After," and more.