Four Tops Singer Abdul ‘Duke’ Fakir Dies at 88

Abdul ‘Duke’ Fakir, a beloved member of the Motown group the Four Tops, passed away on Monday in Detroit, Michigan. His son confirmed his death to Fox News Digital. Fakir was 88 years old and succumbed to heart failure. At the time of his passing, he was surrounded by his wife Piper and other close family members.

Fakir, the last surviving original member of the Four Tops, was instrumental in making the Motown label a hallmark of ’60s pop music success. Known for his exceptional voice, Fakir and his group gained immense popularity during their era.

“We are deeply saddened to announce the passing of our loving husband of 50 years, beloved father, grandfather, great-grandfather, friend, and forever Four Tops member, Abdul Kareem Fakir, better known as Duke,” his family stated. “As the last living founding member of the iconic The Four Tops music group, we find solace in Duke’s legacy living on through his music for generations to come.”

Fakir’s 70-year music career was filled with significant milestones, including his ongoing tours until the end of 2023. His family stated, “Our hearts are heavy as we mourn the loss of a trailblazer, icon, and music legend.”

Smokey Robinson also shared his sentiments, “My brother, I really hate to have to say goodbye, but you’ve been called home by The Father to once again join Lawrence, Obey, and Levi and make more of the heavenly music you guys made while here. I’m gonna miss you, my brother. Have the most wonderful eternity. Your Brother, Smokey.”

The Four Tops are remembered for their timeless hits such as “Baby I Need Your Loving,” “I Can’t Help Myself (Sugar Pie Honey Bunch),” and “Reach Out I’ll Be There.” Fakir co-founded the group in the ’50s alongside Levi Stubbs, Renaldo “Obie” Benson, and Lawrence Payton. Initially, the group was known as the “Four Aims” before changing their name to the Four Tops after signing with Chess Records in 1956.

Between 1964 and 1967, they amassed 11 Top 20 hits and two No. 1 singles. The group performed together for more than four decades without a change in personnel and was inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame in 1998. Fakir was the last surviving original member of the Four Tops.

During the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame induction, Stevie Wonder praised the group saying, “The things I love about them the most — they are very professional, they have fun with what they do, they are very loving, they have always been gentlemen.”

Fakir’s legacy doesn’t end with his music. He was reportedly in the process of working on a Broadway musical based on the lives of the Four Tops. He completed his memoir, “I’ll Be There,” in 2022, which detailed his life as a member of the Four Tops and his journey through stardom and fame.

Abdul ‘Duke’ Fakir is survived by his wife of 50 years, Piper Gibson, and their six surviving children. He was married twice and fathered seven children in total.

Abdul ‘Duke’ Fakir’s contributions to the music world and his monumental influence on the Motown sound will be remembered for years to come. His music continues to inspire new generations, ensuring his legacy lives on.

Source: Fox News, Getty Images