The song opens with an invigorating call to action. Just a brief stomping riff precedes Frankie Beverly, the lead singer and songwriter of the renowned soul and funk band Maze, as he exclaims, “woah-ohhh.” By the time the lyrics, “You make me happy,” are sung, audiences at barbecues, family reunions, weddings, block parties, and musical festivals are already taking to the dance floor.
“Before I Let Go” reached No. 13 on Billboard’s R&B chart following its release in 1981 as part of the band’s fifth album. Over the past four decades, it has become a hallmark for the group and for Beverly, whose heartfelt yet spirited vocals elevate the song into a collective experience, particularly cherished during Black gatherings.
During a discussion with Beverly on his podcast in March, Questlove referred to the song as “the national anthem of life,” highlighting its presence in Black celebrations. The song evokes nostalgia for home and togetherness, characterized by its lively spirit and Beverly’s powerful delivery, often marking it as an end-of-the-night anthem. For many years, Beverly and Maze have concluded their performances, including the annual Essence Festival, with this beloved track.
Clint Smith, the New York Times best-selling author, poet, and journalist, captured the transformative energy of Beverly’s music in a 2015 poem titled “When Maze and Frankie Beverly Come On in my House.”