The esteemed baritone of The Spinners, Henry Fambrough, passed away at 85 due to natural causes. This was confirmed by the group’s spokesperson, Tanisha Jackson, who stated that Fambrough died at his home in Northern Virginia on Wednesday, February 7.
The Spinners, known for timeless classics like “It’s a Shame,” “Could It Be I’m Falling in Love,” and “The Rubberband Man,” were inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame recently in November 2023. This honor recognized not only Fambrough but also the other members of the group – Billy Henderson, Pervis Jackson, Bobby Smith, Philippé Wynne, and John Edwards – for their significant contribution to the music industry.
In May 2023, Fambrough visited Motown’s Studio A in Detroit, Michigan. Along with reminiscing about the old days, he donated 375 outfits and shoes worn by The Spinners to the Motown Museum. This act served to memorialize both the visual and musical legacy of the group. Fambrough spoke fondly of his early career, highlighting his deep connection to the place where The Spinners started their musical journey.
The Spinners’ rise to fame began with their 1970 hit “It’s A Shame,” which made it to No. 14 on Billboard’s Hot 100. Their successful partnership with Atlantic Records ushered in a period of great success, yielding numerous hits such as “Then Came You,” a collaboration with Dionne Warwick in 1974. The Spinners’ achievement is further emphasized by their 18 platinum and gold albums and six Grammy nominations, underlining their profound influence on the R&B and soul music genres.
The Spinners were formed in 1954 in Ferndale, Michigan, and were originally known as The Domingoes. Their move to Motown Records a decade later marked the beginning of a new era that significantly influenced American music. Their story is not only of musical evolution but also of the cultural impact they made through their soulful tunes and harmonious storytelling.
Fambrough’s steadfast dedication to The Spinners and their music was apparent throughout his nearly seven-decade-long career. Despite numerous changes in the lineup, his baritone voice and leadership ensured the group’s lasting legacy. Current Spinners singer Jessie Peck commented on Fambrough’s commitment stating, “He had a desire above all else to keep this going no matter what… He set the standard for the rest of us about how the Spinners should be: always on point, with every step.”
Even with the inevitable changes over the years, Fambrough’s presence remained a constant, symbolizing the heart and soul of The Spinners until his retirement in April 2023.
Fambrough is survived by his wife, Norma, to whom he was married for 52 years, and his daughter Heather. He leaves behind not only a personal legacy but also a substantial cultural heritage.
Fambrough’s contributions to The Spinners’ music will continue to echo, inspiring future generations to appreciate the power of harmony and the elegance of shared melodies.
