Abdul “Duke” Fakir, the last surviving original member of the iconic Motown group the Four Tops, passed away on Monday at his home in Detroit, Michigan at the age of 88. Fakir’s family confirmed his death was due to heart failure. He had recently been battling bladder cancer.
The Four Tops were known for their enduring hits and significant contribution to the Motown sound, with Fakir’s smooth tenor voice complementing the baritone of lead vocalist Levi Stubbs. The group’s career spanned seven decades, and Fakir remained actively involved in music until his retirement earlier this year.
Fakir was born in Detroit and met his fellow bandmates Levi Stubbs, Renaldo “Obie” Benson, and Lawrence Payton at Pershing High School. They formed the Four Aims in 1953, which later became the Four Tops when they signed with Motown Records in 1964.
The group quickly became one of Motown’s defining acts with a series of hits, including “I Can’t Help Myself (Sugar Pie Honey Bunch),” “Reach Out I’ll Be There,” and “Standing in the Shadows of Love.”
The Four Tops’ harmonies and stage presence made them a staple of the 1960s music scene. Despite lineup changes in other Motown groups, the original Four Tops remained together until the deaths of Payton in 1997, Benson in 2005, and Stubbs in 2008. Fakir continued to perform with new members, preserving the group’s legacy.
In 1990, the Four Tops were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. In 2009, they received a Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award.
Reflecting on their bond, Fakir once said, “We were more than just a singing group. We were brothers, and we stuck together through thick and thin.” This sentiment was echoed by many in the music industry, including Motown founder Berry Gordy, who praised Fakir’s dedication to the group.
Fakir’s death marks the end of an era for Motown. Rolling Stone highlighted Fakir’s contribution to music, noting his efforts to keep the Four Tops’ music alive even after the passing of his original bandmates. Fakir continued to tour until late last year when health issues sidelined him.
In addition to his musical achievements, Fakir was known for his kindness and involvement in the community. He had penned a memoir titled “I’ll Be There,” published in 2022, and had plans for a Broadway musical about the Four Tops’ story. His death has prompted an outpouring of tributes from fans and fellow musicians alike.
Motown Museum chairwoman Robin Terry remembered Fakir as “a kind and supportive person who was deeply involved with the museum.” Fakir’s contributions to music and his community leave a lasting legacy. “Duke was not just a great singer; he was a great person who cared deeply about others,” Terry said.
Fakir is survived by his wife, children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. His passing marks a significant loss for the music world, but his influence on Motown and popular music will continue to resonate.
In a tribute to his friend, Smokey Robinson noted, “Duke’s voice and presence were a cornerstone of the Motown sound. He will be greatly missed, but his music will live on.”