(April 3, 2025) Back in 1978, the legendary group Maze featuring Frankie Beverly released the funk-infused ballad “I Need You” as part of the band’s much-heralded Golden Time of Day album. It gave the musical world an early look at the breadth of musical genius that would ultimately be associated with Maze. It also showed all that pop radio was missing about the band, even as millions of fans around the world embraced them.
More contemporary musical royalty Fatin Dantzler and Aja Graydon, better known as the SoulTracks Readers’ Choice Award winning duo Kindred The Family Soul, were both fans and friends of Frankie Beverly, and in anticipation of their planned late Summer release, wanted to pay their own musical tribute. And their choice of “I Need You” was a most personal selection. They tell us:
We were in love with the legendary Frankie Beverly’s music and just wanted to do the song justice. We had covered his music in our live shows, but never attempted to record a cover in studio. So we just mainly wanted to bring the song to our fanbase with as much soul and love that we could. The lyrics to the song truly resonated with us considering our nearly 27 year marriage; we fully found ourselves feeling right at home with the composition.
Fatin and Aja do more than “justice” to “I Need You.” While keeping the open vibe of the original version, they provide a more contemporary R&B arrangement that gives the number a delicious groove. And in it they not only provide a fitting tribute to Frankie Beverly, they deliver an organic song of love to each other.
We simply love this new song, and are honored to provide its World Premiere with this story. Check out “I Need You,” and welcome back Kindred the Family Soul to SoulTracks.
By Chris Rizik
