Last Four Tops Singer Duke Fakir Dies

It has just been announced that Four Tops legend Abdul ‘Duke’ Fakir, the last surviving original singer of the legendary group, has passed away. Duke Fakir, whose voice was an integral part of the soundtrack of generations, died two days after announcing his retirement.

Born on December 26, 1935, in Detroit, Michigan, Fakir grew up in a city synonymous with the Motown sound. Together with his childhood friends Levi Stubbs, Renaldo ‘Obie’ Benson, and Lawrence Payton, he founded the Four Tops in 1953. The quartet became one of the most iconic and influential groups in soul and pop music history.

With hits like “Reach Out I’ll Be There,” “I Can’t Help Myself (Sugar Pie Honey Bunch),” and “Bernadette,” the Four Tops won the hearts of millions worldwide. Fakir’s tenor voice, harmoniously woven with Stubbs’ powerful baritone and the smooth voices of Benson and Payton, created a unique and recognizable sound that has stood the test of time.

Fakir was an exceptional singer and a dedicated performer who continued to perform with unwavering enthusiasm for decades. His passion for music and his commitment to his fans remained unchanged until the end. He continued performing with the Four Tops, even after the passing of his bandmates, keeping the spirit of the group alive for new generations. In 2022, Duke performed with the Four Tops and The Temptations in Europe for the last time, but he kept on performing in the USA since.

In addition to his musical career, Fakir was a beloved member of his community and an inspirational figure for many. His life story, which he shared partly in an exclusive interview with Maxazine three years ago, is a testament to perseverance, friendship, and the power of music to connect people.

In the words of one of their most famous songs, “Reach Out, I’ll Be There,” we can find comfort in knowing that Duke Fakir will always be there in the music he leaves behind. His voice and spirit will live on in the timeless melodies of the Four Tops. The famous singer passed away at home from heart failure, two days after announcing his retirement. Duke Fakir was 88 years old.