Henry Fambrough, last surviving original member of The Spinners, dies at 85:
1. Henry Fambrough obituary
2. The Spinners original member Henry Fambrough passes away.
Henry Fambrough, the last surviving original member of the iconic R&B group The Spinners, passed away at the age of 85. The news of his death was confirmed by a spokesperson for the group. Fambrough, whose soulful voice captivated audiences for decades, was known for his contributions to hit songs such as “It’s a Shame,” “Could It Be I’m Falling in Love,” and “The Rubberband Man.”
According to spokesperson Tanisha Jackson, Fambrough died peacefully of natural causes in his home in northern Virginia. His passing marks the end of an era for The Spinners, who were inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame just last November. Alongside Fambrough, the group’s other original members, including Billy Henderson, Pervis Jackson, Bobby Smith, Philippé Wynne, and John Edwards, were also honored with this prestigious recognition.
Last May, Fambrough was given the opportunity to tour Motown’s Studio A in Detroit. This special occasion included the donation of 375 outfits worn by The Spinners during their performances to the Motown Museum. Reflecting on his visit to the studio, Fambrough reminisced about the 1960s when he first stepped foot into the iconic space, remarking, “I used to dream about this place.” He shared anecdotes about trying to convince his wife that he was attending 3 a.m. rehearsals and recording sessions at the studio.
The Spinners’ breakthrough hit, “It’s A Shame,” released under Motown Records, reached No. 14 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in 1970. Their success continued when they signed with Atlantic Records, producing a string of hits, including the chart-topping “Then Came You,” featuring singer Dionne Warwick, in 1974. The group’s talent was recognized with six Grammy Award nominations, and they achieved 18 platinum and gold albums throughout their career.
Originally known as The Domingoes, The Spinners formed in 1954 in Ferndale, just north of Detroit. Ten years later, they joined Motown Records, which propelled them to national and international fame. Fambrough’s contributions to the group’s success will forever be remembered by fans and fellow musicians alike.
Henry Fambrough is survived by his wife of 52 years, Norma, and daughter Heather Williams. The news of his passing has left a profound impact on the music industry and fans around the world. His legacy as a member of The Spinners will continue to inspire and resonate with future generations of music lovers.
In conclusion, the passing of Henry Fambrough, the last original member of The Spinners, has left a void in the music world. His soulful voice and contributions to the group’s success will be remembered for years to come. As we mourn the loss of this talented artist, we celebrate his life and the impact he had on the R&B genre. May his family find comfort in the memories they shared with him, and may his music continue to bring joy to listeners around the world..
1. Henry Fambrough, last surviving original member of The Spinners, dies at 85
2. Henry Fambrough, the only original member left of The Spinners, passes away at age 85.
