Podcast appearances and mentions of duke fakir

acast four tops james watt watty duke fakir

Play Episode Listen Later Mar 12, 2024 18:38

The remaining original Four Top Duke Fakir chats with James Watt about his life in music Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

1967 - September: The Four Tops "Reach Out"

What the Riff?!?

Play Episode Listen Later Jan 15, 2024 31:44

One of the groups that defined the Motown sound was the Detroit Quartet known as The Four Tops. The group originally called themselves the Four Aims, but changed the name to avoid confusion with the Ames Brothers. The group was composed of Abdul "Duke" Fakir, Renaldo "Obie" Benson, Lawrence Payton, and lead singer Levi Stubbs, four boys who met at Pershing High School and would remain in the same lineup as the Four Tops from 1953 through 1997.The quartet signed to Chess Records in 1956, but did not experience success with that label. In fact they would not find significant success with multiple records including Red Top, Riverside Records, and Columbia Records for the next seven years. What they would gain is a lot of opportunities to polish their act and stage presence with extensive touring. Berry Gordy Jr. convinced them to move to Motown in 1963, initially to record jazz standards and sing backup. At Motown they experienced success in their own right.Reach Out is their fourth studio album, and their biggest selling album. The Four Tops had multiple hits, primarily through the writing of the Motown team known as Holland-Dozier-Holland. Reach Out would be their last album with that songwriting team, as Holland-Dozier-Holland left Motown shortly after this album was recorded. It went to number 11 on the Billboard Top LP's chart.The Four Tops were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1990, and still perform today, with Duke Fakir as the sole original member.Bruce presents this soulful album in this week's podcast. BernadetteThis song was released in February of 1967 and reached number 4 on the Billboard Hot 100. It would be the final top 10 hit for the Four Tops in the 1960's. The song is a plea from the boy to Bernadette to stick with him. Standing In the Shadows of LoveThis single is a heartbreak song about sleepless nights and soul searching for what went wrong. It hit number 2 on the soul charts and number 6 on the Billboard Hot 100 in 1967. It is a bit of a reworked song, as the Supremes had a B-side in 1963 called "Standing at the Crossroads of Love."Last Train to ClarksvilleReach Out was a mixture of original songs and covers, and this song made famous by the Monkees is one of the covers. They also included "If I Were a Carpenter," "Walk Away Renee," and "I'm A Believer" on this album. Reach Out I'll Be ThereHere is the signature song of the Four Tops. It was released in 1966 and spent two weeks at the top of the Billboard Hot 100. It alternates between a minor and major key, giving it a Russian feel in the verse and a gospel feel in the chorus according to Lamont Dozier. The writers intentionally put Levi Stubbs at the top of his vocal range to make sure there was a hunger and wailing in his voice. ENTERTAINMENT TRACK:Light My Fire by The DoorsThe Doors appearance on The Ed Sullivan Show was their first and last when they promised to change the lyrics "girl we couldn't get much higher," only to leave them unedited in the live performance. STAFF PICKS:Brown Eyed Girl by Van MorrisonLynch launches the staff picks with this hit single off Morrison's debut album, which peaked at number 10 on the Billboard Hot 100. The nostalgic lyrics which seem tame today were considered too suggestive for the time and were banned by some radio stations. However, it remains popular today, and as of 2015 was the most downloaded and played song of the entire 60's decade.The Letter by The Box TopsRob features a short song with a blue-eyed soul feel. The Box Tops took this song to number 1 on the charts, making it The Box Tops best seller. Joe Coker would cover this in 1970, and take it to number 7 on the charts. The producer overdubbed the song with an airplane sound he located at a local library.Testify by ParliamentWayne brings us an early hit from George Clinton and Parliament before their Funkadelic days. Actually, George Clinton is the only member of Parliament who is recorded on this song. The group was based in New Jersey and the other members were not able to travel to Detroit for the recording. As a result, Clinton is joined by local session musicians and singers to complete the song.Funky Broadway by Wilson PickettBruce closes out the staff picks with a song that Pickett picked up from Arlester “Dyke” Christian. Dyke Christian was living in Phoenix and playing with a group called Dyke & the Blazers. Unfortunatley in 1971 Dyke Christian was shot to death at the age of 27. This is the first charting single with the word "funk" in the title. INSTRUMENTAL TRACK:Groovin' by Booker T. & the M.G.'sWe finish off with an instrumental cover of the ballad made famous by The Rascals. Thanks for listening to “What the Riff?!?” Please follow us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/whattheriffpodcast/, and message or email us with what you'd like to hear, what you think of the show, and any rock worthy memes we can share.Of course we'd love for you to rate the show in your podcast platform!**NOTE: What the Riff?!? does not own the rights to any of these songs and we neither sell, nor profit from them. We share them so you can learn about them and purchase them for your own collections.

Duke Fakir, The Last Remaining Member of The Four Tops.

The Bobby Bones Show

Play Episode Listen Later Oct 10, 2023 44:36 Transcription Available

On this episode of Takin' A Walk Buzz Knight talks to Duke Fakir, The last remaining member of The Four Tops. *****Thank you so much for listening to the TAKIN’ A WALK PODCAST SHOW hosted by Buzz Knight! Listen to more honest conversations with a compelling mix of guests ranging from musicians, authors, and insiders with their own stories. Get inspired, get motivated, and gain insights from honest conversations every week that can help you with your own journey. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram, and be part of this blessed family. Website: https://takinawalk.com/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/thebuzzknight LinkedIn: http://linkedin.com/in/buzzknight Linkfire: https://lnk.to/takinawalk Please consider subscribing, leaving a review, and sharing it with your friends and family!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

member remaining four tops duke fakir linkfire buzz knight

Duke Fakir, The Last Remaining Member of The Four Tops.

Takin A Walk

Play Episode Listen Later Oct 10, 2023 44:36 Transcription Available

On this episode of Takin' A Walk Buzz Knight talks to Duke Fakir, The last remaining member of The Four Tops. *****Thank you so much for listening to the TAKIN’ A WALK PODCAST SHOW hosted by Buzz Knight! Listen to more honest conversations with a compelling mix of guests ranging from musicians, authors, and insiders with their own stories. Get inspired, get motivated, and gain insights from honest conversations every week that can help you with your own journey. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram, and be part of this blessed family. Website: https://takinawalk.com/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/thebuzzknight LinkedIn: http://linkedin.com/in/buzzknight Linkfire: https://lnk.to/takinawalk Please consider subscribing, leaving a review, and sharing it with your friends and family!Support the show: https://takinawalk.com/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

member remaining four tops duke fakir linkfire buzz knight

Next on Takin' A Walk, Duke Fakir, The Last Remaining Member of The Four Tops.

The Bobby Bones Show

Play Episode Listen Later Oct 8, 2023 0:36 Transcription Available

On this week's episode of Takin' A Walk Buzz Knight talks to Duke Fakir, The last remaining member of The Four Tops. *****Thank you so much for listening to the TAKIN’ A WALK PODCAST SHOW hosted by Buzz Knight! Listen to more honest conversations with a compelling mix of guests ranging from musicians, authors, and insiders with their own stories. Get inspired, get motivated, and gain insights from honest conversations every week that can help you with your own journey. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram, and be part of this blessed family. Website: https://takinawalk.com/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/thebuzzknight LinkedIn: http://linkedin.com/in/buzzknight Linkfire: https://lnk.to/takinawalk Please consider subscribing, leaving a review, and sharing it with your friends and family! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

walk member remaining four tops duke fakir linkfire buzz knight

Next on Takin' A Walk, Duke Fakir, The Last Remaining Member of The Four Tops.

Takin A Walk

Play Episode Listen Later Oct 8, 2023 0:36 Transcription Available

On this week's episode of Takin' A Walk Buzz Knight talks to Duke Fakir, The last remaining member of The Four Tops. *****Thank you so much for listening to the TAKIN’ A WALK PODCAST SHOW hosted by Buzz Knight! Listen to more honest conversations with a compelling mix of guests ranging from musicians, authors, and insiders with their own stories. Get inspired, get motivated, and gain insights from honest conversations every week that can help you with your own journey. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram, and be part of this blessed family. Website: https://takinawalk.com/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/thebuzzknight LinkedIn: http://linkedin.com/in/buzzknight Linkfire: https://lnk.to/takinawalk Please consider subscribing, leaving a review, and sharing it with your friends and family! Support the show: https://takinawalk.com/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

walk member remaining four tops duke fakir linkfire buzz knight

NBC Universal Studio Exec. Shares How To Build Professional Relationships

The Debbie Nigro Show

Play Episode Listen Later Aug 10, 2023 13:42

Michael Swanson Sr. VP Production NBC Universal Studio Group, was just featured in the Forbes Magazine article called, ‘How To Build Your Network” by Maya Richard-Craven. Michael who's a giver by nature, was called on for his expert advice. He shared that ‘helping other people is a great way to form long- term relationships”. When it comes to creating professional relationships, Michael says, “Go out of your way to be of service with a genuine motive and an earnest heart”. “Then over time, someone may ask if there is anything you need." Since 85% of jobs are filled through networking rather than traditional hiring, (yes, it's true), then Michael's advice should help lead you in the right direction to build your career. Michael's own professional journey has been one of working his way up through hard work, and is filled with many accomplishments. Being of service to many along his jounrey has surely led to the many professional relationships he has come to enjoy. Besides being an Emmy Award winner, and a Hollywood TV studio executive, film producer and theatre producer, Michael is also a visionary entrepreneur and President and CEO of the entertainment company, Faith Filmworks. At NBC Universal, he's the studio executive responsible for the production of Universal Television's Parks and Recreation, Hacks, The Good Place, Brooklyn Nine-Nine, Good Girls, Never Have I Ever, Community and Master of None. And throughout his distinguished career in entertainment, Michael has produced movies to critical and audience acclaim including All About You, All About Us, For the Love of Ruth, To Hell and Back, Andraé Crouch: Making The Journey, Two Seasons, Notre Dame First Time Fans: Legacy, The Wayman Tisdale Story and Fannie. He's a guy many in the professional entertinament business aspire to meet, but if you do meet him, please don't ask if he has a card! Or a QR Code! LOL Michael said, " I find that a little off-putting. I think it's more important to really engage a person and get to know him or her, ask questions, but in a very genuine and authentic way as opposed to kind of bouncing around collecting information and calculating in your head what's the best way he or she can help boost my career or advance my career so I can climb the ladder. Frankly in my opinion it's just the opposite. How can we be of service to others? I find that when you are in service to others in a genuine way, with an authentic heart and no ulterior motives, but really just want to help and learn, then I think there comes an opportunity where that executive or that person can eventually reach back out to you and say, you know what, you're doing such a great job. Is there anything I can do for you? How can I help? And then it becomes a more authentic relationship and it can even perhaps turn into a long-term mentoring relationship. And I think that's the best way to navigate a career because it's a little bit more personal. It's not about just taking from someone but learning how to be of service to others." I'm personally aware that networking is challenging for people who don't have ‘connections or ‘experience' in their fields yet, but I always champion the idea of finding ways to meet the people you want to meet, especially in your desired industry, ‘in person'. I think ‘in person' matters for connecting genuinely with people. For getting them to ‘see' who you really are. How do you think I got Michael Swanson on my show today right after Forbes got him? I had the good fortune to meet Michael ‘in person' when he was in NY from LA when The Temptations and The Four Tops performed at the Westbury Music Fair in Long Island NY. Michael, is involved with the Tony Award Winning Broadway smash hit musical ‘Ain't Too Proud: The Life and Times of The Temptations' and is also co-producing the upcoming Four Tops Musical, ‘I'll Be There' with my buddy Paul Lambert and Duke Fakir. Duke is the only surviving member of the group. Michael is a beautiful human with a beautiful family. He serves on the board of directors for Wedgwood Circle, Notre Dame's Performing Arts Advisory Council, Success Through Education Program, FEAST and is a member of the Academy of Television Arts & Sciences. A South Side of Chicago native, Michael resides in Los Angeles with his wife of 29 years, filmmaker and screenwriter Christine Swanson, and their four children. Michael Swanson joined me live from LA on The Debbie Nigro Show to share much more of his warm advice about how to build your professional ‘relationships'. Enjoy the podcast of our conversation. If you prefer to read, the Audio Transcript is below. ************************************************************************ AUDIO TRANSCRIPT 0:00:00 And now, back to the Debbie Nigro Show! 2 0:00:24 Okay, life is all about relationships. Let me explain, okay? Actually, I'll let somebody else explain. Hi everybody, I'm Debbie Nigro. I am so excited to introduce you to my next guest. You know, I always say meeting people in person matters, right? I really do think it totally matters, especially in this virtual world we live in. I met Michael the night I went to see The Four Tops and also the Temptations at Westbury Music Fair in Long Island back when. It was a wildly fabulous night. I met Michael and met his lovely son. What a gentleman. There was something very special about him and there's something very special about him that you guys are going to sense and find out about right now. Michael is a giver by nature. He's not only some big wig Hollywood TV studio executive and film producer and theater producer, which he is all those things, but he is a guy who's created relationships over time that have been really heartfelt and he's spending some time right now educating others on how to do it. Forbes just did a story on how to build a network of professional relationships. He was their first person. They went to interview him as an expert. What Michael said that really just needs to be shared because he's a giver by nature, I mentioned that, is that helping other people is a great way to form long-term relationships. So more about that, but first, welcome Michael and thanks for helping me out by coming on my show today. 1 0:02:10 Good morning, Debbie. It's so wonderful to be with you. Thanks for having me. 2 0:02:13 You're welcome. So you, being the first guy that Forbes called about relationships, probably took a moment, sat back and thought, wow, all my life's work has mattered because I know this matters to you. You have incredibly important advice to people about giving before taking. 1 0:02:31 Yes, yes. I think we are all called to be of service. One thing about networking and mentoring which Forbes wanted to focus on is how do you do it? What's the best way for someone who has had a long career and they wanted me to give advice and some tips. My whole thing is not about going to networking events and some of the less savvy networkers may their first question may become, �Do you have a card? 2 0:03:01 Does anybody have a card anymore? 1 0:03:04 Yeah, I know, right? QR codes. Can I scan your QR codes? I found that a little off-putting. I think it's more important to really engage a person and get to know him or her, ask questions, but in a very genuine and authentic way as opposed to kind of bouncing around collecting information and calculating in your head what's the best way he or she can help boost my career or advance my career so I can climb the ladder. Frankly in my opinion it's just the opposite. How can we be of service to others? I find that when you are in service to others in a genuine way, with an authentic heart and no ulterior motives, but really just want to help and learn, then I think there comes an opportunity where that executive or that person can eventually reach back out to you and say, you know what, you're doing such a great job. Is there anything I can do for you? How can I help? And then it becomes a more authentic relationship and it can even perhaps turn into a long-term mentoring relationship. And I think that's the best way to navigate a career because it's a little bit more personal. It's not about just taking from someone but learning how to be of service to others. 2 0:04:23 If somebody didn't know you and know that you are this heartfelt guy that you are and just saw your title, Hollywood TV studio executive, film producer, theater producer, and they were a young person trying to get into the business. They might be very intimidated by approaching a gentleman like yourself. You're giving some good advice, but how would you like someone to approach you if they were trying to get to know you? 1 0:04:48 My advice would be to simply be yourself. When I meet with a lot of especially recent college graduates or young professionals, that's my advice. There is only one you in this entire world who God has created. So be yourself because no one can be better at you being yourself than you. And then I find that you will relax, you will get centered, you can be yourself and communicate without trying to morph into someone else who you think you're supposed to be to move ahead. 2 0:05:21 Has anybody ever tried to impress you by doing something really out of the box to get your 6 0:05:26 attention? 4 0:05:29 Probably Debbie. But I don't know. 1 0:05:33 I can't think of anything right now. 2 0:05:36 I guess I'm thinking of something funny and I'll share it with you because you did you know one of the key points that was Made in the article and that you know I made Promoting your being on the show today It says that 85% of jobs are filled through networking rather than traditional hiring which is very loud It's a big number and what came to mind is you know a father Always tries to help a daughter or a son and my father God rest his soul He's dead 40 years now once went and repaved some guy's driveway and put in all new shrubs for a guy who wasn't in the TV business because he wanted to make sure he knew who I was by the time I called him. The guy woke up like, what? He didn't even know who I was. So I'm just saying that's funny but people do crazy things to try and get attention to create a relationship and that's the only reason I brought it up. But if in fact 85% right of all the jobs are filled through networking rather than traditional hiring. Like why do people even bother with these, you know, sending resumes into a virtual, you know, hole, a black hole? 1 0:06:36 Yeah, it can become very, rejection is hard for any of us, right? And so when you apply for a job, and even repeatedly sometimes, and you get that rejection or that disappointment, it can be deflating, it can be discouraging, it can even sometimes become depressing because it's like, I've done everything, what can I do? But I have hope in that 15%. You didn't say 100%, you said 85%. So stay positive, is my advice. Stay encouraged and keep submitting. Also, this is one thing that I like to say, which has been true in my life, God will take you to where He needs you to be when He needs you to be there. Sometimes we get rejections or we don't get that job or we don't get that meeting or we don't get that promotion. Sometimes perhaps it's for our own protection. We just may not know that. I'm a big believer, believe it or not, in failure. I think failure is your friend. The key is to learn from your failures, learn from your mistakes, learn from the setbacks, because all of those things are equipping you and preparing you for where you ultimately will end up. So it's not always a bad thing. You know, it's like adding tools to your toolbox that informs how you proceed. So life is hard, right? There are challenges, there are ups and downs, but stay encouraged is the advice that I always get. And importantly, you have to know that things take time. Things take time. Hang in there. Don't get discouraged. Most overnight successes are about ten years. It takes about ten years. 2 0:08:25 At least. Right? 9 0:08:27 I think I'm just peaking, Michael. 4 0:08:28 I love that. 8 0:08:29 That's okay because you know what, Debbie? 2 0:08:30 All of the experience and all of the knowledge and all of the things that you've learned 4 0:08:31 and now you've continued to hone your craft all of these years, it just makes you even 5 0:08:32 more prepared for where you are now. 7 0:08:33 Yes. 1 0:08:34 And have an even bigger platform. So I'm okay with that. I think we live in a microwave society now. Yep. And I think we live in a microwave society now. And I think we live in a microwave society now. And I think we live in a microwave society now. And I think we live in a microwave society now. And I think we live in a microwave society now. And I think we live in a microwave society now. And I think we live in a microwave society now. And I think we live in a microwave society now. 5 0:08:46 And I think we live in a microwave society now. 1 0:08:47 And I think we live in a microwave society now. And I think we live in a microwave society now. And I think we live in a microwave society now. And I think we live in a microwave society now. And I think we live in a microwave society now. And I think we live in a microwave society now. It's okay to put things in the crockpot. Let things simmer. I like that. Let things simmer. 6 0:08:59 Let things simmer. 2 0:09:00 I like that. Let things simmer. Let things simmer. Let things simmer. Let things simmer. Let things simmer. Let things simmer. Let things simmer. Let things simmer. Let things simmer. Let things simmer. Let things simmer. Let things simmer. Let things simmer. Let things simmer. Let things simmer. Let things simmer. works, your celebrated entertainment production company. But you're also the production executive on so many shows that we all love and know, Parks and Recreation, The Good Plays, Brooklyn Nine-Nine, Master of None, Good Girls, Never Have I Ever, you've been out there in the movie world, Oh My Gosh, All About You, All About Us, For the Love of Ruth, it goes on, Broadway, Ain't Too Proud, The Life and Times of the Temptations, and then of course the upcoming Four Tops musical with Duke Fakir, the only living member producer and your co-producer. I'm excited to know you. I have to think that as you look back at your life and you are having this conversation with me about how important relationships are to going forward in a career, who is loud in your head right now that helped you along the way? Somebody that did something nice for you in your business? 1 0:10:02 Oh yeah, well you know so many people, Jerry D'Acanio, Clay Mattel, Adrian Backus, there are so many people who have impacted my life, my career. Mentors who I've had, Erwin McManus, pastors along the way like Charles Stanley. You don't always have to know. I know all those folks or know of them, but most of them I've had personal relationships with. But I also want to share, you don't have to know them personally. You can have a mentor or someone who can be very influential in your life or your career by reading his or her book, by listening to their podcast, their interviews, by kind of studying their business decisions, if they are entrepreneurs, kind of seeing what pivots they made when the landscape was changing. So you can learn from everyone, even if you've never met him or her along the way. Excellent. That has really impacted my career and my life as a husband, father, friend, executive and entrepreneur. 2 0:11:12 Excellent advice. And we do live in a world where there is an exorbitant amount of information for everybody to tap into free of charge if they have the energy and the desire, right? Absolutely. Let's talk about your family real quick. I know you have a beautiful wife you married to a long time who's also a great talent, Christine Swanson, and then you have four kids. This is a beautiful life you're living. And I've met one of your sons who was adorable. Which one was that? 1 0:11:35 That was Cole. That was our oldest son, Cole Swanson, who recently graduated from college and now he is doing his thing. He is also in the entertainment industry. He graduated from NYU Tisch School of the Art and focused on directing. So we have another filmmaker in the family. 2 0:11:50 Awesome. And the other kids, are they in the business? Are they coming up behind you? 1 0:11:55 I think they are, Debbie. You know, I have a rising sophomore at Stanford University who will probably major in filmmaking and business. I think he has a great producer's mind. My third son, Luke, that was Kenji who is at Stanford, my third son Luke recently completed the acting and theater workshop this summer at USC. Although he is a rising senior in high school, he wants to study acting and he would say be an on-screen actor to make it clear. I said, well you have to start in theater, that's where you really get your training. And then my daughter Julia is entering high school and she is just as smart as anyone. I think it would be great to have an entertainment attorney in the family, so who knows what her career path would be. But Christine, my wife, and I are blessed to have wonderful children. We've been married 29 years, about a week ago. I'm really grateful and just trying to raise some grounded children in Hollywood. 2 0:12:52 Wow, that is a huge accomplishment. So Michael Swanson, you're doing great. Thank you so much for being my guest today. I remembered your good energy when I met you in person. I knew that you would be accommodating and love to share your information about what you said in Forbes, which is how to build a network of professional relationships. Remember, helping other people is a great way to form long-term relationships. Go out of your way to be of service with a genuine motive and an earnest heart. Michael Swanson, NBCUniversal Senior VP of Production, you have a terrific day. Thank you, Debbie. 1 0:13:24 You too. Thanks for having me. 6 0:13:26 See you again soon, I hope. 2 0:13:27 Okay, real soon. 1 0:13:28 Bye-bye. 5 0:13:29 Bye-bye. Bye-bye.

1965 - August: The Spencer Davis Group “Their First LP”

What the Riff?!?

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 26, 2023 28:38

Before his solo work, before Blind Faith, before Traffic, a 14-year old known then as Stevie Winwood joined The Spencer Davis Group as a guitarist and lead singer. This blues-oriented British band released their first LP, conveniently called Their First LP in June of 1965 to British and European audiences. We are covering it in August 1965, but the album itself was not released in the United States at the time. Most of the songs would make it to the US market in compilation albums released years later.The Spencer Davis Group was Spencer Davis on vocals, guitar, and harmonica; Steve Winwood on lead vocals, harmonica, guitar, and piano; Muff Winwood (Steve's older brother) on vocals and bass; and Pete York on drums. Additional personnel included Kenny Salmon on organ for a couple of tracks, and one track found Peter Asher on piano and Millie Small on vocals.The album didn't enter the UK albums chart until January 1966, but it would reach number 6 on that chart after a single entitled "Keep On Running" from their second album entered the UK singles charts. "Their First LP" is blues driven, and much of the album consists of covers from blues artists. However, there are also some original pieces composed by Spencer Davis and by Steve Winwood. Spencer Davis went on to solo and collaborative work after The Spencer Davis Group, eventually becoming an executive for Island Records. Steve Winwood would of course move on to a storied career as a rock musician.Bruce brings this blues-laced proto-rock album to the podcast. My BabeThis track leads off the album. While the Spencer Davis Group did not release this as a single, it reached number 75 on the Billboard Hot 100 in October 1963 when it was originally released by its writers, Bobby Hatfield and Bill Medley. Hatfield and Medley are better known as The Righteous Brothers.DimplesThis cover was the first single released from the album, preceding the album by almost a year. The original was written and recorded by blues artist John Lee Hooker in 1956 as an ensemble piece. It was the first Hooker record to appear on the British record charts, though it would take until 1964 to reach the charts. While the Hooker single charted, the Spencer Davis Group cover did not chart.Sittin' and Thinkin'Here is an original song amongst an album dominated by covers. Spencer Davis wrote this song. It was released as a single, the fourth from the album, but only in the Netherlands.It Hurts Me SoThe closing track to the album was written by Steve Winwood. It was not released as a single, but it is an example of Winwood's early blues-influenced work. ENTERTAINMENT TRACK:The Night Before by the Beatles (from the motion picture "Help!" )This film showcased the Beatles in a comedy adventure as the group tries to protect Ringo from an eastern cult. STAFF PICKS:Agent Double-O-Soul by Edwin StarrJames Bond is the obvious inspiration for Wayne's staff pick. Edwin Starr was singing with The Bill Dogett Combo when he went to the cinema to watch the Bond feature, "Thunderball." He wound up watching it 3 times before going back to his hotel room to write this song. Bill Dogett rejected his pitch to sing solo on this tune, so Starr left the group to become a solo act.I Want Candy by The StrangelovesRob brings us a tune by songwriters Bob Feldman, Jerry Goldstein, and Richard Gottehrer. They took on the persona of Australian sheep farmer brothers turned band members Giles, Miles, and Niles Strangelove for this group. This song with a Bo Diddley beat was inspired by dancer Candy Johnson who was seen at the 1964 Worlds Fair. Bow Wow Wow would have a hit with a cover of this song in the 80's.Since I Lost My Baby by The Temptations Lynch's staff pick comes from Motown in the form of a lover's lament written by Smokey Robinson and Warren Moore. It hit number 17 on the US charts. The Temptations would be a huge hitmaker in the 60's both with David Ruffin and Dennis Edwards on lead vocals.Same Old Song by The Four TopsBruce's staff pick features an American vocal quartet from Detroit who helped to define the Motown sound. This Holland-Dozier-Holland song hit number 5 on the Billboard Hot 100, and number 2 on the Billboard R&B chart. Lead singer Levi Stubbs was joined by Duke Fakir, Obie Benson, and Lawrence Payton to form the quartet, and they would remain together from 1953 until 1997 without a change in personnel. INSTRUMENTAL TRACK:The "In" Crowd by The Ramsey Lewis TrioThis jazz single hit number 2 on the R&B chart and number 5 on the Billboard Hot 100. The Ramsey Lewis Trio would receive a Grammy Award for the album of the same name in 1966.

Episode 504 - Interview With Paul Lambert!

Breakthrough Walls

Play Episode Listen Later May 29, 2023 60:38

Such an incredible interview with Paul Lambert! Paul Lambert is an Entertainment Executive and Producer with a strong Digital Marketing background. He has been quoted as saying, "I love to be in positions that require a consensus and team effort to move things forward. One of my greatest thrills is to find ways to bring out the best in others. Most companies and entertainment projects have a lot of moving parts and this ability is critical to their ultimate success”. Paul is a graduate of Moody Bible Institute (Theology major) and then continued his education at Wheaton College (economics). He was a Harvard Prize book Award winner, recipient of a Bank of America Scholarship in the field of fine arts. While a young marketing executive, Paul helped Bob Pitman (MTV) and Bob Geremia (ESPN) experiment and develop the appeal of their pioneering brands for traditional Ad agency business. At the time, these unique networks were unorganized, spontaneous, and enthusiastic but not always the best fit for big traditional Ad Agencies. Paul went on to be President of a NY Advertising Agency for 12 years before turning to entrepreneurial projects and full time Producing. Paul is part pioneer and part enthusiast in everything he does. He was a member of the executive team who closed the first US automotive import deal with China, he convinced both Betty White and Shirley Jones to do regional commercials (unheard of with their status) while in the advertising business, completed a deal with Sherry Lansing (Paramount Pictures) that gave him the rights to adapt the movie "The First Wives Club" as a Musical and worked with Hollywood producing “royalty” -- Suzanne de Passe —in developing a new project, "Driving While Black in Beverly Hills". Mr Lambert has produced theatrical projects in Los Angeles, NY, San Diego, Chicago, Toronto, and Melbourne, Australia. He is currently the lead producer of the NEW Four Tops Musical — "I'll Be There" - with fellow Producers, Duke Fakir (original Four Tops member), and Michael Swanson, Sr VP NBC / Universal Television. He also has attracted Eddie and Brian Holland (of the legendary Motown composing team Holland Dozier Holland) and HB Barnum (Aretha Franklin's music supervisor for 30 years) as the project's arranger and orchestrator; and, Tim Sabean as a key executive in the shows marketing, audience platform development, and IP expansion. "I'll Be There" is slated for an opening in the Fall of 2024. Paul's full-time focus is now creating and producing "branded" entertainment that has both entertainment value and social significance.

The Four Tops Duke Fakir talks about a life of music

music acast four tops duke fakir

Play Episode Listen Later Mar 28, 2023 18:05

Today James Watt catches up with an original Four Tops member and still there Duke Fakir. How did it all start lets find out Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ep 73: Duke Fakir (The Four Tops) on The Temptations | Accolades

Accolades

Play Episode Listen Later Jan 23, 2023 12:24

In episode 73 I talk to Duke Fakir from The Four Tops about The Temptations, an American vocal group from Detroit, Michigan, who released a series of successful singles and albums with Motown Records during the 1960s and 1970s. The group's work with producer Norman Whitfield, beginning with the Top 10 hit single "Cloud Nine" in October 1968, pioneered psychedelic soul, and was significant in the evolution of R&B and soul music. The band members are known for their choreography, distinct harmonies, and dress style. Having sold tens of millions of albums, the Temptations are among the most successful groups in popular music.

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Ranking The Greatest Singers Of All Time

Joe Madison the Black Eagle

Play Episode Listen Later Jan 5, 2023 29:53

Motown legend Duke Fakir of the Four Tops joins Madison to break down what they think of Rolling Stone Magazine's rankings of the 200 Greatest Singers of All Time.Read the list here: https://www.rollingstone.com/music/music-lists/best-singers-all-time-1234642307/

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RIP Lamont Dozier, 81, penned “You Can't Hurry Love," “Heat Wave,” and dozens of others ... and helped put Motown on the map

Off-Ramp with John Rabe

Play Episode Listen Later Aug 12, 2022 9:21

Lamont Dozier, the middle of the celebrated Holland-Dozier-Holland team that wrote and produced “You Can't Hurry Love,” “Heat Wave,” and dozens of other hits and helped make Motown an essential record company of the 1960s and beyond, died Monday at age 81.Duke Fakir, a close friend and the last surviving member of the original Four Tops, said, “I like to call Holland-Dozier-Holland ‘tailors of music.' They could take any artist, call them into their office, talk to them, listen to them, and write them a Top Ten song.”From 1963-1967, Dozier and brothers Brian and Eddie Holland crafted more than 25 Top Ten songs and mastered the blend of pop and rhythm and blues that allowed the Detroit label, and founder Berry Gordy, to defy boundaries between Black and white music and rival the Beatles on the airwaves. For Off-Ramp, we're listening back to his appearance at the kickoff of the Songwriters Hall of Fame at the Grammy Museum at LA Live in 2010. Songwriter Paul Williams was the emcee for the event. And I have lots more tape from that event, featuring Williams, Ashford and Simpson, Mac Davis, and Hal David. We'll listen to that in coming weeks. Support for this podcast is made possible by Gordon and Dona Crawford, who believe that quality journalism makes Los Angeles a better place to live; and by the Corporation for Public Broadcasting, a private corporation funded by the American people. Off-Ramp theme music by Fesliyan Studios.

FBI search the home of Donald Trump

Newshour

Play Episode Listen Later Aug 9, 2022 49:07

Mr Trump, who was not at Mar-a-Lago at the time, said a large number of agents had entered the estate unannounced on Monday night and broken into his safe. Also on the programme, we go to Basra in Iraq where recent temperatures have exceeded 50 degrees Celsius, which is around 122 degrees in Fahrenheit. And we are also joined by Duke Fakir, one of the Four Tops, to remember the life of Lamont Dozier, who wrote countless hits for the Motown record label in the 1960s. (Picture: A police car outside Mar-a-Lago, home of former president Donald Trump. Credit: EPA)

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The Four Tops Duke Fakir

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 21, 2022 18:05

James Watt chats to Duke Fakir of the Four Tops

Duke Fakir The Four Tops with James Watt

Play Episode Listen Later Oct 2, 2021 18:05

James Watt chats to Duke Fakir from the Four Tops. A real legend of music and still performing. Hear some great stories of how it all started!

Duke Fakir from the Four Tops chats with Watty

four tops james watt watty duke fakir

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 16, 2021 18:05

James Watt chats with the Four Tops legend

The Four Tops

Beyond The Fame with Jason Fraley

Play Episode Listen Later May 26, 2021 11:15

WTOP Entertainment Editor Jason Fraley chats with Duke Fakir of The Four Tops, who perform their classic Motown hits this weekend at the National Memorial Day Concert.

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Hard To Top or Stop 'The Four Tops' Living Legend Duke Fakir!

The Debbie Nigro Show

Play Episode Listen Later Apr 1, 2021 15:00

I Cant Help Myself! I'm playing all my favorite 4 Tops Hits and bopping around dancing today with a smile on my face as I welcome Duke Fakir, the only living member of the original legendary Motown quartet The Four Tops. Duke Fakir is the ultimate ageless entertainer. Imagine 67 years on the road performing and still loving every minute? And he sees absolutely no reason to stop. In fact he's picking up speed! Duke and The Four Tops produced million-selling hits that sound just as good today as they did back when. “Reach Out I'll Be There,” “Ain't No Woman,” “I Can't Help Myself (Sugar Pie Honey Bunch)," Baby I Need your Lovin', all which now have millions of views on You Tube. Duke Fakir was a founding member of the group originally called the Four Aims, which included lead singer Levi Stubbs, Renaldo "Obie" Benson and Lawrence Payton. The four remained together for over four decades, performing from 1953 until 1997 without a change in personnel. You'll love the story Duke tells of how it all started with those four young men. Girls! All four guys hustled to a High School Prom where they heard there were going to be a LOT of girls and not so many guys. LOL A gal asked Duke to sing and he grabbed the other guys and said let's all sing...and the magic happened and the rest is history. No one could top the four of them collaborating together. With three of his original fellow Four Tops gone now, Duke Fakir continues the magical musical tours with three talented younger vocalists, but shares a touching mention of how sometimes when he's performing he can still feel the presence of his late performing buddies and it brings a tear. Now that The Four Tops have been inducted into the Rock 'n Roll Hall of Fame, have received the Grammy's Lifetime achievement award, and have been named by Billboard Magazine as one of the greatest groups of all time, what could possibly be next? A Dazzling Stage Musical? A 'Jersey Boys kinda hit'? Well since some of the very same guys who wrote the original hits for him are back doing it again I wouldn't be surprised at all. Tune in to this sweet upbeat conversation with Duke Fakir fresh off his first gig in nearly a year because of Covid. He was excited to travel to Washington, D.C. where he taped an upcoming PBS Memorial Day Special. He's even more excited about the upcoming Four Tops Musical.

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Black History Month & The Power of Music To Bring Us Together

The Debbie Nigro Show

Play Episode Listen Later Feb 28, 2021 29:01

Did You Catch 'Hitsville' on Showtime? Wow. Talk about the power of music to bring people together! Maybe it's what the world needs more of now to bring us all together. Hitsville is a documentary film about the birth of Motown in Detroit in 1958 through it's relocation to LA in the early 1970s. Dynamo Berry Gordy created a unique system that enabled Motown to become the most successful record label of all time. Much of that had to do with the non stop hits that were being pumped out by genius songwriters (HDH) Holland-Dozier-Holland. As Showtime points out, "The creation and initial success of Motown was achieved during a period of significant racial tensions in America and amid the burgeoning civil rights movement." Listening to Eddie Holland (HDH) tell the back stories in the film on Showtime inspired me to invite him to join me for this feature interview on The Debbie Nigro Show - in honor of Black History Month. I'm honored I get to call him friend. Motown wasn't just a business it was a family so it's no surprise you can 'feel' Eddie's heart breaking out of the gate as he speaks of the shocking unexpected passing of his bubbly beautiful friend and 'sister' Mary Wilson (Supremes) who passed just 2 weeks ago. Eddie said, Smokey Robinson called him and broke the news. He's candid he's been in deep pain ever since. One because her death was out of nowhere as Mary wasn't sick so he couldn't prepare for it, and two because Mary left him a phone message that week and Eddie kept meaning to call her back but he got busy. That he didn't call her back right away he says, has compounded the anxiety and pain of her loss. Especially since she was really excited about Black History Month and had planned on doing so many things to celebrate it. (We all have those phone calls we wish we had made.) 'Mortality' came up too as Eddie said while talking about Mary's passing with Duke Fakir of The 4 Tops, who was also very close to her, they talked about how 'most of us are gone now' and how very very sad it is. On an upbeat note, you'll get a kick out of Eddie Holland the hit machine wordsmith talk about choosing the 'words' to the hit songs we still react to today. He continuously asked for feedback on his work until he was sure knew exactly 'which' words would make you feel something and make a song a hit. On the subject of writing sooo many hit songs: His genius he said, was talking to A LOT of females to understand their feelings. When I asked Eddie Holland if he was an expert on love: He said, "I don't care whose listening I'm better at it that most men” LOL On the subject of whether he still beats himself up for putting 'one' wrong word in the hit 'Stop In the Name Of Love': YES he still can't take it. This has gone on for many many many years. LOL On the subject of his experience with Racism: He tells of that 'one time' while on a record hop stop in a St Louis restaurant... that left him with a very empty cold feeling. On the subject of Creativity : He said, "It's very hard for a creative person to also be a disciplinarian. " On the subject of Women: He said, he learned so much talking and listening to women that it's clear that women have the power at every juncture, they sometimes forget that. They are great game players. Teenage girls in love act maternal he says, and women truly develop their craft at 30 years old. "Men cannot compete with a 30 year old smart female." On the subject of whether there's another hit song in him? Eddie Holland is mostly talking to Duke Fakir these days about the upcoming '4 Tops Musical' in the works. Duke wants Eddie to come up with a main theme for all their hit songs and wants him to take look at the story and if he sees a song in there - give it to his brother to write. Oh and Eddie's happy he just got his second Covid shot. In closing, because I always liked Eddies 'ponytail swagger' I asked about his hair. Said he just cut it a little ...himself. He started laughing explaining that ever since he was a little boy and his Grandma let a neighbor Barber cut it too short and he ran home crying... he's always cut his own hair. (Fun to know some guys cry about a bad hair situation too) I hope you enjoy this warm interview. In the photo below that's Eddie Holland on the left and his terrific brother Brian Holland on the right with my late Mom Eileen and me. My music lovin' Mom loved this moment and it's one of my favorite photo memories of a happy day. 'Hitsville' is On Demand On Showtime. Check the schedule at Showtime.com If you love backstories, and want to understand more about 'The Genius Of Holland-Dozier-Holland Motown's Incomparable Songwriters' check out The HDH audiobook "Come and Get These Memories" it's just out on audible.com

From the archives: Mary Wilson

Bob Sirott

Play Episode Listen Later Feb 9, 2021

Reports surfaced late last night that Vocalist Mary Wilson, who co-founded the Supremes as a 15-year-old in a Detroit, died yesterday at her home in Las Vegas. She was 76. Bob Sirott paid tribute by playing parts of a 2013 interview he and Marianne Murciano did with Wilson and Duke Fakir of the Four Tops. […]

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The Four Tops Duke Fakir in conversation

Play Episode Listen Later Jul 14, 2020 18:05

Another chance to hear Duke Fakir talking about his life in the Four Tops with James Watt

Four Tops - Duke Fakir in conversation

Play Episode Listen Later May 25, 2020 18:05

A great chat with the Four Tops legend Duke Fakir with James Watt

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#364 - Abdul "Duke" Fakir of the Four Tops

The Paul Leslie Hour

Play Episode Listen Later Feb 3, 2020 24:30

364 - Abdul "Duke" Fakir of The Four Tops Abdul "Duke" Fakir is a founding member of The Four Tops, one of the most successful vocal groups of all time who defined the "Motown Sound" of the 1960s. They will forever be known for such evergreen songs as "I Can't Help Myself (Sugar Pie, Honeybunch)" and "It's the Same Old Song" among many others. The Four Tops have been an active musical group since 1953. In this exciting, reflective interview, Duke Fakir reminisces about being there during the creation of some of the greatest music America has ever known.

Duke Fakir and Mary Wilson (Ep. 42, 2019)

KUT » In Black America

Play Episode Listen Later Sep 22, 2019 29:39

On this week’s edition of In Black America, John L. Hanson, Jr. speaks with Motown legends Abdul “Duke” Fakir, a founding member of The Four Tops, and Mary Wilson, a founding member of the Supremes. Both were participants in The Summit on Race in America this Spring, at the University of Texas at Austin.

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Duke Fakir and Mary Wilson (Ep. 42, 2019)

KUT » In Black America

Play Episode Listen Later Sep 22, 2019 29:39

On this week’s edition of In Black America, John L. Hanson, Jr. speaks with Motown legends Abdul “Duke” Fakir, a founding member of The Four Tops, and Mary Wilson, a founding member of the Supremes. Both were participants in The Summit on Race in America this Spring, at the University of Texas at Austin.

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Duke Fakir and Mary Wilson (Ep. 42, 2019)

KUT » In Black America

Play Episode Listen Later Sep 22, 2019 29:39

On this week’s edition of In Black America, John L. Hanson, Jr. speaks with Motown legends Abdul “Duke” Fakir, a founding member of The Four Tops, and Mary Wilson, a founding member of the Supremes. Both were participants in The Summit on Race in America this Spring, at the University of Texas at Austin.

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Tinder Becomes Political Player, Bill Cosby to Host Town Halls, Beyonce's Babies

Doug Stephan presents the DJV Show

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 27, 2017 96:56

Doug, Jen, and Cara explore a wide range of topics today. They kick off the day by explaining how in the world Tinder has become a player in the political spectrum. Then, they dive into the depressing but inevitable news of Seattle employers cutting hours because of the minimum wage increase. They also give the run down on Bill Cosby's decision to host some upcoming town halls. In addition, Beyonce gives them reason to celebrate as she brings home her twins. And they also have a special interview with Duke Fakir of the Four Tops.

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Declarations: Four Tops

Created Equal

Play Episode Listen Later Jan 5, 2017 14:26

Four Tops founding member Duke Fakir talks about capturing lightning in a bottle with Motown in the 1960s.

motown declarations four tops duke fakir

#72 Happy New Year! Gretchen Vogelzang & me: What's NEXT?

The Not Old - Better Show

Play Episode Listen Later Jan 1, 2017 30:45

Happy New Year! Gretchen Vogelzang & me: What's NEXT? The Not Old Better Show, Art of Living Series This is episode 70+ and the 6-month anniversary of The Not Old Better Show. I felt like doing something special to celebrate with you all, and since it's New Years, it makes sense. It just so happens that the anniversary was around the same time as my own anniversary… so I had a special guest interview me. My wife, Gretchen Vogelzang, has joined me, and we've turned the microphones around to talk about some things, give you a nice, nostalgic interview with Duke Fakir, of the Four Tops, and answer some questions about what's next for The Not Old Better Show. Enjoy!

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Duke Fakir (Four Tops)-The Jim Parisi Show

Jim Parisi Show

Play Episode Listen Later Feb 26, 2015 9:07

Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Inductee and Original Four Tops Member Duke Fakir talks to Jim Parisi about MOTOWN 25, their First TV Broadcast in 30 Years

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The Tops in Music at Duke's Place

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Play Episode Listen Later Nov 14, 2012 60:05

In the comfort of his own home, Duke Fakir tells the Four Tops story through music.

The Tops in Music at Duke's Place

music tops motown four tops duke fakir

Play Episode Listen Later Nov 14, 2012 60:05

In the comfort of his own home, Duke Fakir tells the Four Tops story through music.

Love Music

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Play Episode Listen Later Oct 16, 2012 28:10

Duke will discuss the power of love in music with some very special guest.

Love Music

motown lead singer four tops love music duke fakir

Play Episode Listen Later Oct 16, 2012 28:10

Duke will discuss the power of love in music with some very special guest.

Duke Fakir preparing for the fall season 2012

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Play Episode Listen Later Sep 25, 2012 28:58

Duke Fakir of the Four Tops talks about the beauty of music in the fall season.

Duke Fakir preparing for the fall season 2012