Maze

The soul-funk band Maze has maintained a devoted fanbase since the 1970s thanks to its feel-good records and legendary live shows. • Initially known as Raw Soul, the group was formed in 1970 by singer, songwriter, and multi-instrumentalist Frankie Beverly, a Philly native who’d played in bands like The Blenders and The Butlers. • The band later moved to the San Francisco Bay Area and caught the ear of Marvin Gaye, who selected them as tour openers in 1976. Gaye also suggested they ditch the name Raw Soul. • Beverly played the milk bottle—nope, it’s not a cowbell—on Gaye’s 1977 smash “Got to Give It Up.” • In 1977, Maze released its debut album, Maze featuring Frankie Beverly. • Maze’s signature hit, 1981’s “Before I Let Go,” peaked at No. 13 on the Billboard R&B chart. The song appears on the group’s Live in New Orleans album. • The band’s 1985 single “Back in Stride” became their first No.1 R&B hit. • In 2009, Beverly’s son Anthony organized the tribute album Silky Soul Music: An All-Star Tribute to Maze Featuring Frankie Beverly. The LP includes contributions from Maze fans Mary J. Blige, Musiq Soulchild, and Kem. • Beyoncé covered “Before I Let Go” during her legendary 2018 performance at Coachella. • Frankie Beverly passed away in 2024 at the age of 77.