Frankie Beverly & Maze Tribute Album In The Works PDF Print E-mail
Written by Cyber Narcotics   
Thursday, 04 June 2009 18:44

billboard.com
April 07, 2009 01:02 PM ET
Gail Mitchell, L.A.

mazegroup

Gospel star Donald Lawrence and Grammy-nominated producer Rex Rideout are among the first collaborators to sign up for an all-star tribute album honoring legendary R&B group Maze, Billboard has learned exclusively. "Silky Soul Music...An All-Star Tribute to Maze featuring Frankie Beverly" is being produced through Brantera Music Group Inc., headed by Beverly's son Anthony.

frankie-beverly-and-sonIn addition to Lawrence, who is contributing a full-blown gospel version of Maze's 1984 track, "I Wanna Thank You," Anthony is currently negotiating with several other veteran and new artists from the R&B, gospel and jazz arenas. Rideout is serving as co-producer of the project, whose selections will include a cross section of memorable Maze tunes, among them: the No. 1 R&B hits "Back in Stride" and "Can't Get Over You," "Silky Soul," "Before I Let Go" and "Golden Time of Day."

Getting its big break in the early '70s as the backing band and opening act on a Marvin Gaye tour, Maze signed with Capitol and later segued to Warner Bros.. The group's first major R&B chart credit was 1977's "While I'm Alone" which peaked at No. 21.

"After 30 hit singles and 12 albums, I thought it was time to get this done," says Anthony, who doubles as the project's executive producer. "The group's longevity boils down to one word: real. My father is real about everything he does; that's what people love about Maze. And that's what I'm trying to bring off with this record, using live instruments and artists who exemplify—and have been influenced by what my father is about musically."

While distribution is still being discussed, Anthony plans to release the first single by Father's Day and follow with the album in August. A special commemorative DVD will also be produced, featuring interviews with the project participants as well as legendary R&B and jazz artists, current and former music executives and community leaders about the Maze legacy.

A tribute web site launches in mid-April at frankiebeverlytribute.com. Among its offerings: an ultimate Maze fan video contest with the winner participating in some of the album release events. Promotional tie-ins involving the tribute album will also take place in New Orleans at the Essence Music Festival. This year's festival (July 3-5) will conclude with a special icons tribute to Maze. The group has traditionally closed the festival since its 1995 inception.


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written by a guest on June 17, 2009

Frankie Beverly and Maze is what I consider to be the Blue-print for my singing career along with many other artist. Everyone has their own lane and thank GOD that Frankie Beverly and Maze paved the way for people like Jill Scott, The Roots, Musiq Soulchild, Angie Stone, Anthony Hamilton, India Aire, Dwele, Ledisi, Anony FreemEn, Jaquar Wright, Rachell Farrell, and many others. Although you may not see him all over the television like mainstream artist who modeled their careers after Michael Jackson like Usher, Chris Brown, Beyonce, Neyo, we can always count on Frankie Beverly to come to a city near you since I can remember. He has created timeless classics and has captured the essence of what music is really about and I have him to thank for giving people like me a Blue-print that fits me.

Check out www.myspace.com/newgrowthentertainmentgroup
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written by a guest on June 19, 2009

I am so happy that Mr. Frankie Beverly and maze are finally getting a tribute done for them. They sure deserve it. I have grown up listening to frankie and maze and omg. I have enjoyed every bit of it. I can recall be at the Carter Barron Ampitheatre in Washington DC in the early 90's in the rain and boy did they give DC a true pary. Oh how much fun that was. Everytime they come during thanksgiving wkend to Constituioin Hall in DC i am there. As you can see i love me some Maze fan at 37. So, To Anthony thank you so much for doing this. Truly aprpeicated.

Keep up the work Frankie B U Maze. Happy FEeelings in the air!!!

Nicole--DC
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written by a guest on June 20, 2009

I am so glad to see that Frankie Beverly and Maze will final receive a tribute that is long over due. When will the live Cd from Dallas, Texas be released. God bless you Anthony for being a true fan and a faithful son to your father Frankie Beverly. Take care and keep the faith my borther.
Ms. Charlene Hendrix Jefferson
Richardson,Texas
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written by a guest on July 15, 2009

NOONE LOVES FRANKIE AND MAZE LIKE I DO!
CONGRATULATIONS FRANKIE! You should be real proud of what Anthony is doing. I love You so much,

Patricia
Chicago,IL
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written by a guest on July 17, 2009

I personally put in calls to nominate them for the Lifetime Achievement Award for the 2008 and 2009 BET Awards and also did my own tribute (Freestyle) I know their season is overdue and they should be honored and recognized for their work. As I mentioned above, they are the BLUE-PRINT, they have carved the lane for many artist to follow. I mentioned Micheal Jackson being the Blue-Print for mainstream artist before he ascended to another realm. It is my hope that Frankie Beverly will forever be with us and be just as timeless as his music and white outfit. I want you around forever Frankie , so a key to eternal ife can be found in 1st Corinthians 15:45-54 -Death has been swallowed up in Victory for those who are born again and changed and we won't have go to the grave to get to Heaven . Jesus is the truth , the way and the life and the only way to get to GOD is through Christ. Born into death because of sin but Changed and crossed over from death to Life through Faith in Christ we are set free from the laws of sin and death - May your youth be renewed like the eagles, may you never grow old and and you be forever 33- We SHALL LIVE and NOT DIE, WE SHALL LIVE and NOT DIE , WE SHALL LIVE and NOT DIE- Sorry I didn't get to share this message with Michael,Bernie and Issac and other's we lost. For it is GOD's will for us to Live and Not die for his son paid the price and holds the keys to both death and life- My people perish for the lack of knowledge

Sincerely
The Anony Messenger
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written by a guest on August 06, 2009

Frankie Beverly is a true American icon. His music has touched so many lives, and it is only right to honor him in this way while he is still alive and can feel the love. Anthony, it is even MORE special, coming from you. You have no idea how much this means to your dad.
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written by a guest on August 13, 2009

Its about TIME! These gentleman has been giving us great music that has transcended time..I am a third generation Frankie Beverly & Maze fan! I am also a songwriter and artist. The success of this group to me shows that GOD definately rewards diligence and faithfulness. Great Job Frankie B. and Maze...your music lives and grows to new fans and generations everyday.

Rico
Muziqsoullive.blogspot.com
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written by a guest on August 23, 2009

I too feel it is way over due. Frankie B and Maze have been winging far too long for no commendations whatsoever. Kudos to your son, Frankie.

Jackie B
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written by a guest on August 26, 2009

DITTO to everything that has been said thus far. I have a six disc CD changer in my car and 3 of them is STRAIGHT Frankie B and Maze, the fourth is a screwed version of Frankie B and Maze, and the other 2 or mixed CD's that has Maze songs on them. Everyone that knows me,knows Franie B and Maze...lol. I am so proud of Anthony for honoring his dad, along with the other great singers for accepting the opportunity to be a part of something that is very well deserved. His songs has gotten me out of some pits with dealing with personal relationships, the issues of the world, and life in general, pop in Frankie B and Maze and he will tell you everything is going to be okay. I remember telling my husband (before marrriage) , if you can't look at me, treat me, or make me feel special as these songs, "Never Let You Down" being one, does then we we gone have some problems. He laughed but he got the picture...LOL To Frankie B and Maze, I'll see you in November when you come to Houston,and to the others that has hands in this extraordinary piece work, GOD bless you for your efforts.

A true fan
Shae
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written by a guest on August 27, 2009

It is about time Frankie and Maze were recognized as the outstanding artist they are. Since the early 80's we have been jamming with Maze. I am a Southern Girl and any time he comes to Houston I try to see him. Thank you Anthony for the tribute, it well overdue. Your Father is amazing.

Alice S.
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written by a guest on August 27, 2009

IT is so exciting to witness this group receive the formal congratulations that they've long deserved. Ironically, about a month ago, I sent a letter to BET requesting that their process of selection for the 2010 Lifetime Achievement Award include this dynamic group! I only hope the letter was in order and timely as it was on my heart to write it.
Thank you for your music and its' impact on listeners of all ages!

Tammy H. Jones
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written by a guest on September 07, 2009

Frankie, my name is Lorraine I'm origanally from chester. I remember when I used to see you at a bar in Sharon hill along with another group called Breakwater that made two songs. They use to sing at a bar call the grill in Chester. I'm now living in Southfield Michigan. I was in Vegas at the Hilton at both of your show a couple of weeks ago and I had a ball listening to your music.Having a hard time getting your tribute CD here in Detroit. How can I get one.

Thank you
Lorraine
This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it
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written by a guest on September 09, 2009

I continue to enjoy the music of this dynamic and inspiring band. I can't wait to purchase the tribute CD to add to my collection. This group is long overdue for a tribute of this type. I am ready to sit back relax and enjoy newer artists singing the songs I grew up to! Congratulations to Maze and Mr. Frankie Beverly.

Blessings,

David

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written by a guest on September 09, 2009

Man, I was running around like a chicken with my head cut off on Aug 29th looking for the tribute cd and found out it doesn't come out until the 29yh of September. I was almost about to let some people at the stores have it for not carrying the cd, until one young lady was laughing at me and said calm down we have it......on the 29th of September. I couldn't do anything but say "okay I'll be back". Man, I heard Joe sing "Can't Get Over You", I knew then Anthony gotthe right ones baaabay! Can't wait and I am counting down.

Shae
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written by a guest on September 10, 2009

Thank you Thank you Thank you! I am so happy to finally see our favorite group of all time being honored. It's been along time coming but, well deserved! This musical tribute is an honor, the long list of talent and gifted artists speaks volumes of who and what Maze and Mr. Beverly are to so many. I am a committed fan for life! I travel near and far just get that "Happy Feeling" you get only from Maze. Their music is classic and timeless. I can hardly contain myself Sept. 29th is not coming fast enough. Thanks for all of your beautiful music Maze. Continued Blessings!

Deanda


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written by a guest on September 11, 2009

It's been a long time coming, but thank God the time is here! Congratulations and a great big THANK YOU for this tribute. It's waaaaaaaayyyyyyyyy over due. Thank you so much for such great music over the years. I can honestly tell you that when I'm in a "funk", I will put in one of my FB & Maze CD's, sit back and mellow out! Can't wait until 9/29/09. Much Love & God Bless You All - Always!

Renee B. - STL, MO

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written by a guest on October 20, 2009

I am have been looking for the CD version of the Tribute Album in Atlanta since September 29, CAn anybody tell me where to find it. I am a real MAze featuring Frankie Beverly Fan and have been since the early 70's. Last time I saw y'all live was in EUTAW Alabama-2008. Frankie I partied right in front if the stage in the palce the you sadi you did not know existed. HAd to miss it this year but I cannot wait for you to come back south so I can get my Maze featuring Frankie Beverly on. "Everybody Everybody got something to be thankful for" and I am thankful for great music from Maze featuring Frankie Beverly.

BESS-Riverdale,GA
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written by a guest on November 09, 2009

This tribute I feel is long overdue, my hat not only go off to Frankie and Maze but to his son as well for caring enough about his father and his music to give him his flowers while he can smell them. Maze featuring Frankie Beverly are in a class (Class Act) all by themselves. My favorite group in the world........FRANKIE is a Legacy!!!!!
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written by a guest on November 25, 2009

people tell me all the time that i look like frankie and i'm truly am a fan of maze i reaaly wish he would do a gopel alum i can just imagibe what it would sound like.My cousin is Joe Douglas so i really keep up with where maze is and what they are doing.I also am a musician and would love to meet my brother Frankie
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written by a guest on December 26, 2009

Hi Frankie, my name is Joyce and I go back with you to the days when you guys played at the wreck on 22nd st in Philly. I also remember when you played our prom Simon Gratz class of "72'. i have never stopped loving your music. I live in North Carolina now and every time you guys come to Walnut Creek my husband and I are there. We will see you soon in Durham.. We have all of your music and when I need to mellow out I listen to you. Wishing you much more succes.
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written by a guest on January 17, 2010

Hi Frankie and Maze, I like the newer songs, but I LOVE the Oldie but Goodie songs. I'm old school, I grew up on Golden Time of Day, Joy and Pain, I would play them over and over and over, Frankie these are songs of hope and have meaning from the heart and I am thankful God Blessed you to created them. I wish I could have met you in this lifetime, You are the second cutest man on this side of the world, my man is the first. He's going to get me, you are the first. Smile, Laugh, Enjoy life as God Gives it, God Bless you, your family and Maze with much love.
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written by a guest on January 20, 2010

Hi Frankie and Maze, I have seen you guys in Washington, DC, Constitutiion Hall many times and have always enjoyed the show, it is one of the only shows where unless you are handicapped you are on your feet moving to the good silky soul sound of the group. I too, am glad that I have had the opportunity to enjoy so much of your good music. I think your son should be congradulated on a project well done. I will continue to listen to your music and god bless you Frankie, I shall keep you in my prayers.
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written by a guest on February 02, 2010

The Greatest til this day, Frankie Beverly and Maze has touched Sould for many years. Young and old can relate but the words to each song are so real. A moment of peace, relaxation, or just time for some god music this is who you pop in and get your mind right. Love you Frankie.. "I Wanna Thank You Brother"!
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Last Updated on Wednesday, 10 June 2009 18:05