Just three years ago, Magic Johnson, alongside his wife Cookie, celebrated their 30th anniversary. To make the moment even more special, legend Frankie Beverly and Maze performed just for the couple. And the Los Angeles Lakers legend is just as heartbroken as anybody right now, as he penned the farewell note for the legendary singer.

The family confirmed the news of the 77-year-old’s sad demise, as the statement released by them read, “…This period is one of healing, and your respect for our need for solitude is appreciated as we honor the memory of our beloved Howard Stanley Beverly known to the world as Frankie Beverly. He lived his life with pure soul as one would say, and for us, no one did it better. He lived for this music, family and friends. Love one another as he would want that for us…”

And as the dreadful news reached Magic, he shared his memories with Beverly. He also stated that he has seen him over 200 times and the wedding anniversary performance was his favorite. Lastly, he wrote via Instagram, “I’m so happy that Cookie and I saw him, hugged him, and told him how much we appreciated him and his music at his last show in LA at the Forum. I told him then that there would never be another Frankie Beverly!”

Further, Magic Johnson added, “Cookie and I will be praying for his family, friends, and all of his fans. As a tribute to him, I will be playing his music all day!”

Just this year in April, Frankie Beverly performed in United Center, Chicago, during his farewell tour. And the Chicago mayor declared April 27 as “Frankie Beverly & Maze Day.” It was indeed a celebration of timeless music as his music was known for spreading positivity and unity. Even the name of the band had that significance.

“Maze means magic and love,” Beverly told Ebony in 1984. “Everybody is in this maze of life together — people of all types, colors and ages,” he added. But the success wasn’t easy, even after moving to the Bay Area. Recalling his days, he “learned to cook potatoes 15 different ways.” He even struggled to pay rent until they met Marvin Gaye. But it was Gaye’s sister-in-law, who first recommended the band to the Marvin.

It turned out to be a record-breaking path, as they were the opening act whenever Marvin Gaye performed. And a year later, they dropped their first album, creating millions of fans in the process.

The legacy of Frankie Beverly will continue

During an interview before the release of his documentary, Magic Johnson spoke about his favorite band. “Anything with Stevie Wonder, Earth Wind and Fire, [The] O’Jays, Frankie Beverly & Maze,” the 5x Champion said in an interview with Bet.com in 2022. Before the farewell tour, which even Magic Johnson was part of, Beverly spoke about the future without him.

“Thank you so much for the support given to me for over 50 years as I pass on the lead vocalist torch to Tony Lindsay. The band will continue on as Maze Honoring Frankie Beverly. It’s been a great ride through the decades. Let the music of my legacy continue,” he spoke to Billboard.

From the 70s and until forever, from their eight studio albums and two live records to 8 gold certifications, his legacy shall live on. Having touched multiple records like the 1985’s Can’t Stop the Love and 1989’s Silky Soul — topping the Billboard R&B Albums chart, his renowned singular baritone voice will continue to echo, thanks to fans such as Magic Johnson and many more.