Beyoncé Honors Frankie Beverly: “We Will Never Forget You”
The tributes to the late Frankie Beverly are still pouring after the tragic news sent a global shockwave throughout music and entertainment.
In addition to Jalen Hurts, Luke James, Alex Isley, and Sheila E. reacting to Beverly’s passing at the tender age of 77, Beyoncé issued a formal statement through her company, Parkwood Entertainment.
The singer wrote, “Thank you Frankie Beverly for bringing us all together with your music. You’ve written some of the most inspiring and uplifting songs for the world to enjoy. With your lyrics, you have humanized our experiences, through joy and pain. Thank you for teaching us about the importance of community, family, and togetherness. We will never forget you. May you rest in power.”
Beyoncé reimagined Maze and Beverly’s classic jam, “Before I Let Go,” back in 2019. It peaked No. 65 on the Billboard Hot 100 after being featured in her music film, HOMECOMING.
The original record, which was written and produced by Beverly, debuted in 1981 and peaked No. 13 on the Billboard R&B chart.
Prior to his death, the Philly native retired from music and got his well-deserved flowers with 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 popped out to pay homage to the crooner as he took his final bow.
The Beverly family confirmed his death in a statement on Wednesday (Sept. 11). While asking for privacy as they grieve, they shared, “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” and urged fans to “love one another as he would want that for us all.”
