Levi Stubbs: The Voice of the Four Tops
Levi Stubbs, the renowned lead singer of The Four Tops, was born on June 6, 1936 in Detroit, Michigan. He was best known as the voice of the legendary Motown group, The Four Tops. His powerful and soulful voice captivated audiences around the world and solidified his place in music history.
Levi’s singing career spanned over five decades. His deep distinctive gravelly tone and emotive delivery set him miles apart from other vocalists of the 1960s, 70s, 80s and 90s. Stubbs’ vocal range was truly impressive. Without a pause, he could effortlessly transition from smooth crooning to powerful belting. Many enthusiasts and critics agreed that his dynamic performances, charismatic stage presence and raw emotion endeared him worldwide to fans of all ages.
Hit tunes reigned like national anthems
There’s little to question whether Levi Stubbs vocal skills propelled The Four Tops to iconic stardom. Their hit songs “Reach Out I’ll Be There” and “I Can’t Help Myself (Sugar Pie Honey Bunch)” reigned, during the R&B era like national anthems. It didn’t matter whether Levi was delivering heart-wrenching ballads or energetic dance tracks, his vocal cleverness never failed to leave a lasting impression.
In addition to his work with The Four Tops, Levi Stubbs also pursued a successful solo career. His solo recordings showcased his versatility as an artist. This allowed him to explore different musical styles and genres beyond the confines of traditional R&B.
Health Issues Arose
In later years, Stubbs suffered from various health issues. These included diabetes and a stroke in the late 1990s. The stroke left him partially paralyzed.
Despite those challenges, he continued to perform with The Four Tops until his declining health forced him to retire in 2000.
Levi Stubbs passed away in 2008. But Stubbs’ marvelous performance career stands out as a testament to the power of raw talent and unwavering dedication. That incredible voice still inspires generations of musicians and fans alike. He’ll forever be remembered in the annals of music history. (June 6, 1936 – Oktober 17, 2008) The Four Tops – Live ’96 At The MGM Grand Las Vegas