Ronald Isley performs “Joy and Pain” in tribute to Frankie Beverly
Ronald Isley’s Heartfelt Tribute to Frankie Beverly
R&B legend Ronald Isley delivered a powerful tribute to Frankie Beverly. Performing Maze’s iconic ” Joy and Pain” during a concert at the Mable House Barnes Amphitheatre in Mableton, Georgia. The soulful dedication, backed by a live band, captivated fans. The crowd sang along to honor Beverly, who passed away on September 10, 2024, at age 77 from an alleged heart attack.
As the lead singer of The Isley Brothers, Isley’s live performance dedication celebrated Beverly’s legacy, whose music defined Black joy and unity. This article explores Isley’s tribute, the enduring impact of “Joy and Pain,” fan sentiments, and powerful celebrity tributes to Beverly.
Soul Brotherhood: Ronald Isley and Frankie Beverly’s Timeless Connection
Ronald Isley, born May 21, 1941, in Cincinnati, has led The Isley Brothers through nearly seven decades of musical evolution. From their early doo-wop beginnings to funk and soul classics like “Shout” and “It’s Your Thing,” the group’s influence remains unmatched. Their six-decade chart-topping legacy earned them a Guinness World Record and a 1992 induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, according to Songkick and Wikipedia.
Frankie Beverly, born Howard Stanley Beverly in 1946, founded Maze in Philadelphia and crafted a catalog of soulful anthems that earned nine Gold-certified albums. Known for hits like “Joy and Pain” and “Before I Let Go,” Beverly’s influence became a staple in Black music culture. His 2024 farewell tour concluded in Philadelphia with Eagles quarterback Jalen Hurts honoring him on stage.
The bond between Isley and Beverly ran deeper than shared stages. In 2013, both icons performed at the Chicago Summer Music Festival, where fans noted the contrast between the two icons. Still, their mutual respect was evident—and enduring. When Isley performed “Joy and Pain” in April 2025 as a tribute to Beverly, fans on X remarked, “Ron and Frankie were soul brothers in sound and spirit.”
Though Beverly has passed, his influence lives on through Ronald Isley’s tribute and a shared legacy that defines the golden era of R&B.
Ronald Isley Tribute: A Soulful Dedication
Ronald Isley’s emotional tribute for Frankie Beverly occurred during a recent Isley Brothers’ June 7, 2025, concert. During the show he performed “Frankie Beverly Joy and Pain” with his signature silky vocals. The song, a 1980 Maze classic, resonated with fans, its chorus—“Joy and pain are like sunshine and rain”—capturing life’s duality. Isley, 83, introduced the live performance dedication by sharing memories of touring with Beverly, saying, “Frankie was family,” per X posts. Backed by a tight band, including brother Ernie’s guitar, Isley’s rendition moved the crowd to tears.
Fans on social media, noted Isley’s vocal clarity, with one user saying, “Ron’s voice at 83 is unreal—perfect tribute to Frankie.” The performance, part of a setlist including “That Lady” and “Contagious,” highlighted Isley’s ability to bridge generations. The Ronald Isley tribute underscored his respect for Beverly, whose Maze hits like “Before I Let Go” remain cultural staples.
Frankie Beverly Joy and Pain: A Timeless Anthem
“Frankie Beverly Joy and Pain,” from Maze’s 1980 album, is a cornerstone of R&B, known for its infectious groove and universal message. Beverly’s baritone and Maze’s tight instrumentation made it a cookout and reunion essential. Despite missing the charts, its cultural impact endures, with fans on X calling it “the soundtrack of Black life.” Beverly, who formed Maze in Philadelphia in 1970, crafted anthems that fostered unity.
Isley’s live performance dedication of “Joy and Pain” echoed past joint tours with Maze. Specifically, the 2023 “I Wanna Thank You” tour, where both acts delivered classics. Fans at the 2025 show noted Isley’s emotional delivery, with one X user posting, “Ron sang ‘Joy and Pain’ like Frankie was in the room.” The Frankie Beverly Joy and Pain tribute reaffirmed Beverly’s influence, even as his vocal struggles in later years were noted.
Live Performance Dedication: Captivating the Crowd
The live performance dedication at Mableton’s amphitheater saw Isley in a tailored suit, commanding the stage with charisma. His band, featuring Ernie Isley’s electric guitar, amplified the soulful arrangement of “Joy and Pain,” drawing a standing ovation. Fans sang along, creating a communal moment reminiscent of Beverly’s all-white concert vibe. Isley’s wife, Kandy, joined for backing vocals, adding warmth.
Technical glitches, like past mic issues noted in 2023 reviews, were absent, ensuring a flawless live performance dedication. Fans on social media praised Isley’s stamina, with one commenting, “He honored Frankie without mimicking him.” The Ronald Isley tribute, part of a set with Maze covers like “We Are One,” cemented Isley’s role as a torchbearer for R&B.
Powerful Celebrity Tributes to Frankie Beverly
Ronald Isley’s tribute joins powerful celebrity tributes to Beverly. Usher sang “Happy Feelin’s” in all-white during his September 2024 Detroit show, per X posts. Kelly Rowland thanked Beverly for uniting Black culture, posting, “Your voice brought us together,” per X. Jill Scott shared her love for “Golden Time of Day,” recalling Maze concerts with her mother, per X. Tyrese performed “Joy and Pain” at the 2012 BET Awards, bridging generations. Beyoncé covered “Before I Let Go” in 2019, her viral dance moves amplifying Beverly’s legacy.
At the 2024 Essence Festival, a tribute curated by Bryan-Michael Cox featured Luke James and Anthony Hamilton. However, some tributes, like Beyoncé’s, sparked debate over chart impact. With fans defending Beyoncé and Beverly’s cultural weight. These celebrity tributes, alongside Isley’s live performance dedication, keep Beverly’s spirit alive.
An Emotional Resonance
Fans on X expressed deep appreciation for Isley’s tribute. “Ronald Isley tribute to Frankie was soul-stirring!” one posted. Another wrote, “Frankie Beverly Joy and Pain by Ron had me crying!” A third said, “Live performance dedication was perfect—Ron honored Frankie right.” One fan added, “Celebrity tributes like Ron’s keep Maze alive!” Another noted, “Ronald Isley tribute made ‘Joy and Pain’ feel brand new.”
The Legend Is On The Road
Ronald Isley’s tribute sets the stage for The Isley Brothers upcoming tour. With dates in Milwaukee and Indianapolis. Fans hope for more Maze covers, in the future. Isley’s latest album, Make Me Say It Again, Girl (2022), featured Beyoncé, suggesting future collaborations. As he carries The Isley Brothers’ legacy his performance reinforces his role as R&B’s elder statesman.
Ronald Isley Honors Frankie Beverly with Soulful Tribute
Ronald Isley’s performance of “Joy and Pain” served as a heartfelt tribute to Maze frontman Frankie Beverly. Backed by a live band, Isley’s soulful rendition moved the crowd. Turning the concert into a powerful celebration of Beverly’s enduring legacy. The moment echoed through social media, where fans shared emotional responses, with one post reading, “We felt every word. Frankie’s spirit was in the room.”
Celebrity tributes from Usher, Beyoncé, and other music icons have poured in since Beverly’s passing. But Isley’s performance struck a uniquely intimate chord. His voice—seasoned by decades in R&B—brought new life to the timeless anthem of love, loss, and resilience. Isley’s tribute doesn’t just honor a legend. But rather it reinforces Frankie Beverly’s place in the soul music canon for a new generation.