WE ARE ONE

Tuesday, December 10, 2024 was a sad day for me. Legend R& B singer, Frankie Beverly passed away at the age of 77 years old. I had to pay tribute to the man who brought much joy to individuals around the world with his music.

Frankie was born Howard Stanley was an American singer, songwriter, and producer known primarily for his recordings with the soul and funk band Maze. He formed Maze, originally called Raw Soul, in his hometown of Philadelphia in 1970. After moving to San Francisco and an introduction to Marvin Gaye, Maze later released nine Gold albums and created a large and devoted following.
Frankie’s music was about love, life, and the human experience, and was known for its authenticity, emotional depth, and wholesome messages. It was meant to be motivational.

Hit after hit, Frankie’s music was electrifying and played on rotation on radio stations, at picnics, family gatherings, in dorms, clubs, schools, halftime performances and more. One of my favorite songs is “Happy Feelings”. The very first time, I heard this song, it was therapeutic. The melody gave me uplifting feelings. The song made the sun to shine regardless of the sky being blue.

This has been a challenging year. Individuals in our society are moaning and groaning in pain filled with anxiousness, chaos, fear, and uncertainly especially after the 2024 presidential election results. Music has been proven to help us move pass challenging situations. It has benefits that help us to heal, focus, create, cleanse, energize, and relax.

Music is an ancient tool of healing that was recognized in the writings of the Greek philosophers (Pythagoras, Aristotle and Plato). It is a universal language. It wallpapers our consciousness and permeates the background in offices, stores, restaurants, film, health clubs, waiting room and airplanes. It has a strong psychological impact. Different types of music can significantly impact a person’s mood, helping them delve deeper into their consciousness to process a wide range of emotions. There is research-backed science behind the effect music and music therapy have on us.

Studies have demonstrated that music impacts numerous parts of the brain, including those involved in emotion, cognition, sensory, and movement. In fact, music therapy for mental health has been utilized as a therapeutic aid for millennia. Music therapy is successful in treating a wide range of physical and mental ailments, including depression, anxiety, and hypertension.

Another favorite song from Frankie Beverly and Maze is “Before I Let Go”. This song is a soulful ballad about a romantic relationship that has reached a crossroads. I become energize when I hear this song which is upbeat and lively, with a blend of soulful grooves and fun.

The comments about his death were not surprising and read:
Frankie Beverly and Maze are a pure ICON...G.O.A.T. Frankie Beverly & Maze Should Absolutely be in the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame. Frankie's Music is Phenomenal. He is way overdue for his flowers and accolades. Put this Group in the Hall of Fame! He planted hope alive in our hearts. Frankie was one of a kind and his music is the best.

Frankie closed out the Essence festival in New Orleans (NO) for decades as the last act on the Congo Square Stage at Jazz Festival. The people in NO like many cities around the US loved Frankie Beverly. There was a special connection with the music of Frankie Beverly, and NO. Therefore, the 6 Ward Steppers gave him a sendoff for a king. It was heartwarming to see. Frankie will forever live in our hearts.