Just one day after we posted that the iconic ABDUL “DUKE” FAKIR, the last surviving member of THE FOUR TOPS was retiring, we have to post the sad, sad news that Duke has died. US reports suggest that the genial Duke died on Monday 22nd July, aged 88. It seems that he died at his home in Detroit from heart failure.
This is neither the time or place to retell the history of the Tops nor list their achievements. They speak for themselves! Arguably, the quartet were the greatest soul group of all time. Yes, many will claim that that accolade falls to the Temptations, but the Tops enjoyed as many hits – hits that are all classics – and continued to score hits after leaving Motown – something the Tempts never managed! Equally the Four Tops – with a stable line up – created their own unique, instantly recognizable sound. Whatever, Duke’s passing, sadly, marks the end of an era… a golden era!
I’ve been lucky to see the Four Tops live on numerous occasions and I’ve interviewed Duke many times (he was the group’s official spokesman). He was always courteous and warm; generous with his time and, something many stars I’ve interviewed rarely did, remembered me from previous encounters. One time he even rang me at home to give me the number of his optician! My glasses-wearing wife always loved his distinctive eye wear and asked me to ask him where he got his from! At the time, he couldn’t remember, but, like I said, two hours later he rang me back with the info! A gentleman in every respect!
Plenty more people knew him better than me. Smokey Robinson, for instance, has today posted “My brother, I really hate to have to say goodbye, but you’ve been called home by the Father to once again join Lawrence, Obie and Levi and make more of the heavenly music you guys made while here. I’m going to miss you, my brother.” We will all miss him!
