The music world mourns the loss of Abdul “Duke” Fakir, the final original member of Motown’s legendary Four Tops. Fakir died at his Detroit, Michigan home on Monday from heart failure, at 88 years old. His family also revealed that he had been fighting bladder cancer recently.
Fakir was a key figure in the Four Tops, a group that left an indelible mark on the Motown sound. The Four Tops were recognized for their long-lasting hits, with Fakir’s smooth tenor voice perfectly balancing the baritone of frontman Levi Stubbs. Despite retiring earlier this year, Fakir remained an active participant in the music industry throughout the band’s seven-decade career.
Born in Detroit, Fakir met his bandmates Levi Stubbs, Renaldo “Obie” Benson, and Lawrence Payton at Pershing High School. In 1953, they formed the Four Aims, which evolved into the Four Tops following their signing with Motown Records in 1964.
The Four Tops swiftly rose to prominence as one of Motown’s signature acts, producing a string of hits such as “I Can’t Help Myself (Sugar Pie Honey Bunch),” “Reach Out I’ll Be There,” and “Standing in the Shadows of Love.”
With their harmonious melodies and captivating stage presence, the Four Tops became an integral part of the 1960s music landscape. Unlike many Motown bands that experienced lineup changes, the original Four Tops remained intact until the deaths of Payton in 1997, Benson in 2005, and Stubbs in 2008. Fakir continued to perform with new members, ensuring the group’s legacy lived on.
In recognition of their contributions, the Four Tops were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1990 and received a Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award in 2009.
Reminiscing about the group’s bond, Fakir once stated, “We were more than just a singing group. We were brothers, and we stuck together through thick and thin.” Berry Gordy, the founder of Motown, echoed this sentiment, lauding Fakir’s commitment to the band.
With Fakir’s death, a significant chapter in Motown’s history comes to a close. His dedication to keeping the Four Tops’ music alive, despite the loss of his original bandmates, was highlighted by Rolling Stone. He kept touring until his health forced him to stop last year.
Beyond his musical prowess, Fakir was cherished for his kindness and community involvement. He authored a memoir, “I’ll Be There,” in 2022, and had plans for a Broadway musical depicting the Four Tops’ journey. His passing has sparked a flood of tributes from fans and peers in the music field.
Robin Terry, the chairwoman of the Motown Museum, remembered Fakir as “a kind and supportive person who was deeply involved with the museum.” She added, “Duke was not just a great singer; he was a great person who cared deeply about others,” underlining his lasting influence on music and his community.
Fakir is survived by his wife, children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. His death is a considerable loss to the music world, but his impact on Motown and popular music will continue to echo.
Music legend Smokey Robinson paid tribute to his friend, saying, “Duke’s voice and presence were a cornerstone of the Motown sound. He will be greatly missed, but his music will live on.”