Maze featuring Frankie Beverly with Midnight Star, Maze And Frankie Beverly, and more

Formed in 1976 at Kentucky State University, MIDNIGHT STAR rose to fame with technofunk hits like "Freak-A-Zoid" and "No Parking on the Dance Floor." Their albums earned multiple Platinum and Gold certifications, with chart-toppers like "Operator," "Midas Touch," and collaborations like "Don’t Rock the Boat" with Whodini. Performing worldwide, they remain an iconic band in funk and R&B.

Cameo, formed by Larry Blackmon in NYC, is known for their funky R&B hits and bold style. Notable songs include "Word Up," "Candy," and "She's Strange." They evolved from a Parliament/Funkadelic comparison to trailblazers themselves, influencing younger R&B and hip-hop artists. Hits like "Rigor Mortis" and "I Just Want to Be" topped the R&B charts. Blackmon's codpiece-wearing stage persona became iconic. They thrived in the '80s with albums like *Word Up!* and *Single Life*. Their music endures through compilations and samples in modern tracks.

Frankie Beverly, born in Philadelphia, pioneered Maze featuring Frankie Beverly, an influential R&B band known for its soulful sound and live shows. Inspired by Marvin Gaye, Beverly crafted hits like "Happy Feelin's" and "Back in Stride." Maze, popular in the '70s and '80s, earned several gold albums despite limited pop hits. Beverly's bands evolved from Philadelphia's Raw Soul to Maze in the San Francisco Bay Area, with Marvin Gaye facilitating their Capitol Records contract. Despite few '90s hits, Maze's live performances maintained a loyal fan base. Beverly passed away on September 10, 2024.