The Four Tops were such a standout and unique group even for Motown. Their tunes had a kind of a Phil Spector “Wall of Sound” vibe to them compared to the “cleaner” but grittier sounding hits of the other big Motown artists. In contrast to the other groups there, none really took the spotlight or top billing like Diana Ross, Smokey Robinson, Martha Reeves, or Michael Jackson did (though lead singer Levi Stubbs was the acknowledged and featured lead). In this they were similar to another big act, the Temptations. </i>
Rest in peace, Mr. Duke Fakir, and thanks for all the memories.
The above should say “LESS grittier.”