The Blues world las lost an important and beloved voice. The Southern Gentleman of the Blues, Frank Bey died at his home on June 7, 2020, where he had been under hospice care since June 4. He was 74.
Born on January 17, 1946 in Millen, GA, Frank began his singing career at age four. The following seventy years of his life would be filled with exciting musical opportunities as well as devastating personal and professional disappointments. Quiet dignity and determination were his faithful guides through it all.
Bey’s rich baritone voice is heard on seven albums; Steppin’ Out (Mag Records), Blues In The Pocket (Jeffhouse Records), Back in Business and All My Dues Are Paid (both on Nola Records.) In addition his records with Anthony Paule, You Don’t Know Nothing (Live) , Soul For Your Blues and Not Goin’ Away (all on Blue Dot Records.)
In recent years, Tom and Kathy Dwyer were inspired to film a documentary of Frank’s life, Frank Bey: You’re Going To Miss Me, which is currently in post-production pending the acquisition of additional funding. The Dwyers’ loving care, respect and guidance were an immeasurable gift in the life of Frank Bey and his wife, Toni. The historic preservation and documentation of the man, his music and his message for the world is a gift to us all.
A six-time Blues Music Award nominee, Frank also received two Independent Music Award nominations, and a gold Global Music Award. Known for his extraordinarily powerful rendition of John Lennon’s “Imagine,” Frank consistently inspired audiences with his delivery of a message that is as critical today as the day it was released.
Watch Frank Bey “Imagine”
Frank Bey Online
What a powerful version of Imagine! John Lennon would be very proud! Rest In Peace Frank Bey. Thank you for sharing your talent with the world!
RIP Frank, No more trips to Millen GA, yet in spirit you will always be with us, My condolences to his wife (Toni) and other family members… Frank was like a hero in that small southern town were jobs forgot to stay open. Frank was a dreamer, He proved that regardless of who you are, where you are from if its in your soul you can be what every you desire with determination and dedication. We all are still proud of Frank in our early days we knew him as cousin Frank Bass. His legacy will live on.. his love for the music encouraged other family members to pursue their love and desire in music… for this I thank GOD for allowing the gifts to be poured out through Frank, I thank my cousin Frank for inspiring me to use the gifts of music to please GOD. I thank his wife who surely love him and missed him surely when he traveled… He’s home to stay now.. Much love……..
Frank Bey’s voice was/is a chalice for pain and dreams and love. That we are blessed to have heard him in person will linger; that we are blessed with the technology that allows us to summon his voice, anytime, anywhere, is a gift that will last. I am so fortunate to have crossed paths with him, even briefly, in this life. I will never hear “Imagine” without thinking of Frank, and of all the work that dreamers must do.
Frank will be much missed in Cape May New Jersey where he participated in our jazz festivals. A great performer and even greater man. Good Bless Frank Bey.
Always enjoyed hearing Frank Bey perform, my favorite, ‘Someone Else is Stepping in.’ I always made the rounds to various locations in the Delaware Valley to see Frank. Very humble man, kind, & generous. One of my favorite blues singers. We will miss him very much! If there is a heaven, this is a man I know is there. Love you much, Frank. RIP….
Frank’s singing and his dignity was so audible that it lit up every auditorium or room he was in. The reverberating effects are so lasting that I still hear him even in my thoughts. He always brought fresh wisdom to any conversation I have been blessed to have with him. Both he and his wife Toni, are live wires of their spirit. He leaves no sorrow, just joyful blessings to have known him. Rest in Power Frank.