Levi Stubbs, RIP

Levi Stubbs, the lead voice of the Four Tops died at home in Detroit today. Stubbs was technically a baritone but it seems that their arrangements always had him singing slightly out of his range for an extra sense of desperation...The Four Tops had a ton of hits for Motown in the 60's and 70's, some of which were truly heavy -- "Standing in the Shadow of Love" comes to mind -- and their version of "Walk Away Renee" is incredible.

here's the obit from the LA Times and Pitchfork has an obit with video clips as well...

and then there's this song from Billy Bragg, one of his best...

VOTE EARLY VOTE EARLY VOTE EARLY VOTE EARLY!