In the 1960s, the Four Tops were one of Motown's most popular and commercially successful groups. Consisting of Levi Stubbs, Obie Benson, Lawrence Payton, and Duke Fakir, the Tops released hits such as "Baby I Need Your Loving", "I Can't Help Myself (Sugar Pie Honey Bunch)", "It's the Same Old Song", and "Reach Out I'll Be There."
Abdul "Duke" Fakir, the last remaining original member of the Four Tops, passed away on July 22nd, 2024 at 88 years old. He reportedly died of heart failure, according to the Detroit Free Press/USA Today.
Duke Fakir was not the lead singer of the Four Tops, however, he, more than anyone, helped keep the iconic group's legacy alive in the 21st century. Consistently touring in the 2000s, 2010s, and 2020s with a new Tops lineup, Fakir represented and honored his groupmates and friends, Stubbs, Benson, and Payton. He introduced the Four Tops' music to new generations.
Duke Fakir of the Four Tops passes away at 88
In May 2022, he released his memoir, I'll Be There: My Life With The Four Tops. Fakir, who remained humble throughout his entertainment career, was happy to share stories of his Four Tops journey to the group's fans. He recognized he could preserve the Four Tops' history on paper.
Fakir's family made a statement announcing his death to the public, USA Today shared. "Our hearts are heavy as we mourn the loss of a trailblazer, icon, and music legend who, through his 70-year music career, touched the lives of so many as he continued to tour until the end of 2023, and officially retired this year."
A music historian's perspective
While this article serves as an obituary of sorts, I also wanted to offer a music historian's perspective on Fakir's passing. The Four Tops are not only one of my favorite Motown groups, but they were one of the label's most enduring acts. They had impressive hits and recorded songs people of all ages still know today.
While the Tops legacy will continue to live on, an era has ended. No original members of the group remain. This is always hard to reflect on as a music lover and historian. Fakir led the Tops into the 21st century and was the link to the group's incredible past.
Will the current variation of the Tops continue after Fakir's passing? Most likely yes, but it will never be the same. Fakir was the draw. His passing should be a reminder to enjoy the living legends we still have before it's too late.
I was fortunate to see Fakir and the Tops about five or six years ago. Looking back on that concert, I am grateful that I got to watch Fakir perform. Well into his eighties, he could still command a stage. We all knew we were in the presence of someone who participated in Motown's incredible story.
A chapter in music history has closed with Fakir's passing. For fans and historians, this is a death that will not be forgotten.