These celebrity passings can come all at once sometimes. You always want to pay your respects to those celebrities whose art or entertainment that you connected with. However, there are a few that will touch you more on a personal level than others. This is the case with Frankie Beverly, the legendary front man of the funk-soul group Maze.

I heard the news of Frankie’s passing this morning and my mind took me back to my childhood in St. Petersburg, Florida. At every cookout or family reunion, you could count on hearing Frankie Beverly & Maze playing in the background.  Before I Let Go. Southern Girl. Joy & Pain. Golden Time of the Day. And my favorite…Happy Feelin’s.  Once one of those unforgettable songs started playing, the atmosphere of the cookout or family reunion instantly transformed. Joy emanated from the music and moods were lifted and the party was on.

I know there have been countless tributes and condolences flooding social media today, beautifully capturing the band’s rich history and profound impact on African American culture. A special mention goes to Marvin Gaye for his invaluable contribution to Frankie’s career.

Frankie Beverly’s music is a perfect example of how great art can be both smooth and timeless, leaving a lasting impression. Greatness can be achieved without constantly provoking or challenging the establishment, or by pushing the boundaries of society with your art. Also, Frankie and the band stayed true to their music and gained a beloved audience for nearly five decades.

My highest compliment to Frankie Beverly and the band’s music is they created grown folks’ music that resonated across generations and the history of American music cannot be told without them.

Rest in Love…Frankie Beverly and thank you for your music.

Here are my favorite Frankie Beverly & Maze songs:

1. Happy Feelin’s
2. You (from the Live in New Orleans album)
3. Southern Girl
4. Before I Let Go
5. Golden Time of the Day
6. Joy & Pain
7. While I’m Alone
8. We Are One