Frankie Beverly: A Legendary Career, His Influence on HBCU Bands, and Iconic Remixes of ‘Before I Let Go’

Frankie Beverly, a titan of R&B, has captivated audiences for decades with his smooth voice and soulful rhythms. As the lead singer of Maze, his music has become a soundtrack for love, life, and celebration. Over the years, Frankie Beverly’s impact has stretched far beyond the music charts, especially within the HBCU (Historically Black Colleges and Universities) community. His classic hit, Before I Let Go, continues to unite generations, recently gaining new momentum through high-profile remixes by Colonial Loud and Beyoncé.

In this article, we’ll dive into Frankie Beverly’s remarkable career, explore how his music became a cornerstone for HBCU bands, and examine the fresh remixes of Before I Let Go that have kept his legacy alive.

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Frankie Beverly’s Musical Journey and Career

Born on December 6, 1946, in Philadelphia, Frankie Beverly was drawn to music from an early age. His journey to stardom began with local performances and forming his own band, the Butlers. However, it wasn’t until he founded Maze in the 1970s, after relocating to California, that he found lasting success.

Maze, often referred to as “Maze featuring Frankie Beverly,” brought a fresh, soulful sound that resonated deeply with listeners. Their music blended R&B, soul, and funk in a way that connected emotionally with fans. It wasn’t just the beats or melodies; it was Frankie Beverly’s heartfelt lyrics and the band’s dynamic live performances that earned them a loyal following.

The group gained their big break when Marvin Gaye took an interest in them, offering them a tour slot as his opening act. This exposure catapulted them into the spotlight, and their self-titled debut album was released in 1977, featuring hits like Happy Feelin’s and While I’m Alone. Over the next few years, Maze continued to produce chart-topping albums, with one of their most notable songs, Before I Let Go, released in 1981.

This track became one of Maze’s signature songs and a timeless anthem that transcended generations. Whether at weddings, family reunions, or homecoming celebrations, Before I Let Go became a symbol of joy, togetherness, and community.

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Frankie Beverly’s Influence on HBCU Bands

Frankie Beverly’s connection to HBCUs is one of the most enduring aspects of his legacy. HBCU bands, known for their show-stopping halftime performances and unique ability to blend classic and contemporary music, have embraced Before I Let Go as a beloved anthem. From halftime shows at football games to homecoming celebrations, the song has become a staple in the repertoires of many HBCU marching bands.

Marching bands at universities like Southern University, Jackson State, and Florida A&M have created unforgettable performances centered around this track, making it a fixture of the Black college experience. The song’s infectious rhythm and upbeat energy are perfect for the high-energy, precision-based performances that HBCU bands are known for. The booming brass, synchronized drumlines, and creative choreography that accompany the song only add to its significance.

It’s not just a song; it’s a part of the culture. For decades, Before I Let Go has been a soundtrack to the vibrancy of HBCU life, underscoring the community spirit, resilience, and pride that these institutions foster.

HBCU band directors and students alike appreciate the song’s cultural relevance and the joy it brings to audiences. It creates moments of unity and celebration, something that aligns perfectly with the mission and spirit of HBCUs.

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The Impact of ‘Before I Let Go’ Remixes by Colonial Loud and Beyoncé

Even though Frankie Beverly’s Before I Let Go was released over 40 years ago, the song has taken on new life in recent years thanks to remixes by contemporary artists, proving that great music truly stands the test of time.

Beyoncé’s Remake: In 2019, pop icon Beyoncé introduced a new generation to Before I Let Go by including a cover of the song in her Homecoming: The Live Album. Her version was part of the soundtrack for her Netflix documentary, which celebrated her historic Coachella performance in 2018—an iconic event where she paid tribute to HBCU culture.

Beyoncé’s version infused the song with her signature style, adding a fresh beat, upbeat tempo, and additional lyrics that made it a new anthem for millennials and Gen Z. In true Beyoncé fashion, she honored the original while also bringing something uniquely her own. The remix became an instant hit, and with it, the legacy of Frankie Beverly’s song was reintroduced to a global audience.

Her rendition was met with praise not only for its quality but also for what it represented. Beyoncé’s cover symbolized the lasting impact of Frankie Beverly’s music and its ongoing relevance in Black culture. The fact that she chose this song as part of her HBCU-themed performance at Coachella was a testament to the deep connection between the song and HBCU life.

Colonial Loud’s Remix: At the same time, DJ and producer Colonial Loud also contributed to the song’s revival by releasing his own remix of Before I Let Go. This version brought the original track into the modern era, adding contemporary beats and EDM-inspired rhythms while maintaining the soulful essence of Frankie Beverly’s original.

Colonial Loud’s remix became a favorite in clubs and on streaming platforms, particularly for younger audiences who were discovering the song for the first time. The remix allowed the track to reach new listeners who may not have been familiar with Maze or Frankie Beverly, ensuring that the song’s influence continues to grow.

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The Timeless Legacy of Frankie Beverly

Frankie Beverly’s contributions to music extend far beyond his vocal talent. His ability to create songs that resonate with love, joy, and togetherness has made him an enduring figure in R&B and soul music. His influence on HBCU culture, especially through Before I Let Go, has created a legacy that transcends music and taps into the spirit of community.

As the song continues to be embraced by new generations—whether through HBCU bands or high-profile remixes by artists like Beyoncé and Colonial Loud—Frankie Beverly’s music remains as powerful as ever.

The remixes of Before I Let Go illustrate just how far-reaching his music is, transcending time and genre. His influence is not just musical but cultural, reflecting the experiences, celebrations, and unity found within the African American community. From halftime shows to viral dance challenges, Frankie Beverly’s sound is woven into the fabric of Black culture and will continue to be for years to come.

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Frankie Beverly career

Maze featuring Frankie Beverly

HBCU bands influence

Beyoncé Before I Let Go cover

Colonial Loud Before I Let Go remix

R&B music legends

HBCU homecoming songs

Frankie Beverly legacy

Before I Let Go remixes

Maze timeless classics