PHILADELPHIA (CBS) – On Saturday, more than 100 people braved rainy weather outside at the Dell Music Center to honor R&B and soul legend and Philadelphia native Frankie Beverly.
In a two-hour afternoon program, Beverly was joined by Philadelphia Councilwoman Cindy Bass, Mayor Cherelle Parker, renowned DJ Donnie Simpson, 107.9’s Lady B and others unveil the new “Frankie Beverly Way” street sign.
The sign, which represents the 6000 block of North Norwood Street in East Germantown, currently stands at the intersection of North Norwood Street and Spencer Avenue. Beverly expressed his deep gratitude for all the fans who came to the celebration.
“I just love you so much,” Beverly said. “You took me and made me what I am today. I love you from the bottom of my heart.”
With one look at the crowd of devoted fans, you could tell the feeling was mutual.
“I love his voice, his style, his coolness… everything about him,” says Tiffani West, who says she grew up with his music.
“I’m one of the millions of ladies who were in love with him,” said Robyn Richardson-Bey.
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However, one fan, Joyce Simmons, seemed particularly keen to point out that she holds the title of “number one Frankie Beverly fan.”
“Everyone in Philadelphia should know that I’m his biggest fan. If you came to my house, you’d see a Frankie Beverly museum everywhere,” said Simmons. “I went to him for a year. He touched my hand, I didn’t wash my hand for two weeks. I married him, but he doesn’t know it.”
DJ Donnie Simpson was one of many speakers at Saturday’s event.
“For it to rain all day and people not even worrying about it is a testament to the love they have for this man,” Simpson said. “Frankie Beverly means so much to so many people around the world, but especially here in Philadelphia.”
Councilman Bass, of District 8, represents the district where the sign now sits.
“This is for someone who has made significant contributions to the lives of the people of Philadelphia,” Bass said. “Anyone who knows music knows that Philadelphia is a music city, and Frankie has made such a contribution.”
