By Ralph (209.240.198.62) on Monday, November 25, 2002 - 07:40 pm:

I'm sure this thread will fill quickly also. A fitting tribute to a true superstar.

By Lucy (152.163.188.68) on Tuesday, November 26, 2002 - 08:54 pm:

THE MAN IS LOVED BEYOND WORDS.
AMEN.

By Aljaydu (68.18.97.43) on Wednesday, November 27, 2002 - 07:28 am:

Does anyone have any clue about the unreleased material that the Tops recorded with Norm Whitfield????
and...
where can I get a copy of "Hot Nights" from (also unreleased but some cuts were 'merged' into 'Indestructible').
I never knew how to spell that word 'til the Tops came out with the song.

Deborah, can you help out with the info?

I also have a copy of the song called "Sexy Lady" that the Tops did in about 1989, written by Gabriel J. Maciocia, Executive Producer: Robert J. DiMaggio. The song is on RJR Records out of Vegas.

Once again, Deborah...your Dad is Great. He is in my prayers. If you don't mind, tell him "Hello" for me. It'll mean a lot to me since I've never met him in person.
Thanks

God Bless...

Alan

By Deborah (63.77.247.13) on Wednesday, November 27, 2002 - 02:40 pm:

Hello Alan,

Thank you for taking time out to say those nice
things about my Dad, and please continue to keep
him in your prayers.

I will see what I can find out about the material
recorded with Norman Whitfield, and the other
two songs you inquired about.

God Bless You...

Deborah

By Lucy (64.12.97.7) on Wednesday, November 27, 2002 - 09:12 pm:

Dear Deborah,
I wish you and your family a Happy and Blessed Thanksgiving.I continue to keep your Dad in my prayers,cause as everyone on this site who knows me from the yahoo site....I ALWAYS END BY SAYING...I LOVE THE MAN.

BLESSINGS TO YOU AND YOURS,
LUCY

By Nina (204.31.237.61) on Friday, November 29, 2002 - 06:43 pm:

To one and all, especially my son who turned me on to this site. I love Levi almost as my very own. He and the Tops have knocked me out of many depressed days just by listening to the Tops on and on. Right now I am listening to their one and only Christmas. I made copies so I can listen at home and while I am out driving. My prayers will always be with "Lord Levi's" his family as well as the other Tops and there families. Be strong Deborah there are millions of prayers being offered for all involved.
Nina

By Aljaydu (68.18.113.172) on Friday, November 29, 2002 - 09:00 pm:

Lucy, Nina...how are you all?

"Creole"
Aljaydu
Alan

By Lucy (64.12.97.7) on Friday, November 29, 2002 - 09:10 pm:

Hey Creole,
GREAT TO HEAR FROM YOU....MANY OF US HAVE FOUND EACH OTHER AGAIN...THANKS TO YOU.
I TRIED TO SEND YOU AN EMAIL BUT IT CAME BACK TO ME....I WANT YOU TO KNOW THAT MY HEARTFELT SYMPATHY IS WITH YOU AND YOUR FAMILY.
GOD BLESS

LUCY

By Aljaydu/Creole (68.18.97.123) on Saturday, November 30, 2002 - 09:12 am:

Thank you, Lucy. My Family and I appreciate the kindness and prayers expressed.

God Bless

Always...

Alan

PS: Hi Deborah

Lucy, my e-mail address is : aljaydu@yahoo.com
or alnro@hotmail.com
I've got 3 other e-mail address and I'm learning a valuable lesson....can't runaway from spam...

By DEBORAH (63.77.247.13) on Saturday, November 30, 2002 - 11:06 am:

Hi Alan (and everyone),

Hope you all had a wonderful Thanksgiving!!!

Our family sat around the TV Thanksgiving evening
and looked at the Four Tops 40th Anniversary
recorded at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas. It was
really great and brought back a lot of good
memories for all of us, including my Dad.

If you guys don't already have it, pick it up on
DVD, and I'm sure you will enjoy it. I was told
it was Lawrence's last performance in Vegas (1996)
so that makes it extra special.

Love ya,

Deborah

By Aljaydu/Creole (68.18.97.123) on Saturday, November 30, 2002 - 11:46 am:

Hi Deborah,

How are you and the Family? Though I'm just another face in the crowd", tell all "hello" for me, ok?
I don't have the DVD yet, but I do have the cd of the Tops at the MGM Grand and let me tell ya...WOW!!!! It's like being there."Jumpin' Jack Flash" and "Satisfaction"...Mick, hang it up!! The Tops (with Lawrence on lead) tears it up. They (in my opinion) did a better job than the Stones. The Tops will take n anyone's song and turn it into theirs BUT very few folks will take on a Tops' song and try to make it theirs. Johnny Rivers (or was it Taylor??) tried it (Baby, I need Your Loving)...Kashif tried it (Ain't No Woman)...I even heard a rap group's song that used "Ain't No Woman" (I'm not a rap fan, Deborah...my stereo & my pc has a feature called "ARR" - "Automatic Rap Reject"...both of them spits out cd's with rap on them...it's best that one doesn't stand in front of it and press "play")
Your Family, Levi, Duke, Obie and Theo will continue to be in my prayers. Lawrence's Family will continue to be in my prayers, Deborah.

May God Bless...

Always,

Alan

PS: If you'd like, send me an e-mail at:
aljaydu@yahoo.com
There's something that I want to tell you...

By Stranger56 (165.155.160.135) on Wednesday, December 04, 2002 - 08:30 am:

Alan (Creole),

I'm sure I know what it is you want to tell Deborah, but she can't marry you and make you Levi's Son in Law.
Not happening.
LOL
Deborah, for the longest time, Alan has been trying to figure out a way to be part of the Stubbs family. Son-in-Law always seemed to be the easiest route.
Alan, how about the "long lost nephew" angle? That may work.
LOL

E-mail me, pal, I have something for you.

Stranger (Jim)

By Jack Ashford (209.100.86.4) on Wednesday, December 04, 2002 - 02:21 pm:

Hi Deborah my name is jack ashford of the funk brothers . I just want to say that 3or4 years ago Norman Whitfield flew me to La to over dub percussion on a album of the four tops and It was a great album I don't know when Norman plans to do anything with it , but the guy's sounded great. Jack.ps. tell Levi hello for me. We go back a long way.

By DEBORAH (63.77.247.13) on Wednesday, December 04, 2002 - 03:23 pm:

Hey Jim,

Well, I'll let Alan tell you what he wanted to
tell me....but I think you're right on target !!

I was able to talk with him, and he is truly a
comedian.

Maybe the "long lost nephew" angle might work!
Many, many, years ago (seriously) there was a guy
that wanted to take me out, and he tried to impress me by telling me Smokey was his uncle.

Well, he didn't know that Levi was my Dad, and
after we started talking to each other, and he
found out from someone else that my dad sang with
the Tops, he kind of disappeared for a while.

When he finally re-surfaced, he told me that when
he found out that Levi was my dad, he was afraid
I would find out that Smokey wasn't his uncle and
he would never be able to show his face again!!!

Maybe Alan isn't the only comedian among us!!

By Aljaydu (68.18.96.118) on Wednesday, December 04, 2002 - 09:11 pm:

"Better wait a minute...
You better hold the phone...
Better mind your manners...
Better change your tone..."
Sorry 'bout that...I was looking at "Little Shop of Horrors"...

Deborah, JIm,
how are you all???

"Long Lost Nephew"? I've seen "Six Degrees of Seperation" before. Ain't gonna happen, Cap'n.
How's Mr. Stubbs today? Deb (whoa...look at me...I'm on an abbreviated first named basis, now), tell your Dad that the whole world is praying for him.
Now....let's see...Deb, has that guy showed his face EVER again?? Probably not, huh? Po' Dude.

Jim, I did try to suggest other things like Shoeshine, Carrying bags, Limo Driver, Valet, uh...let's see...Naw, that one's not gonna work.
I did try, though, but like I told Deborah, it was all in fun. Just a little humor to sorta lighten things up (now where did I hear that from before?).
Mr. Ashford, how are you? Thank you for the information on the Norman Whitfield/Four Tops material. All we have to do now is track down Mr. Whitfield...

(Jim, noticed what Deborah said in her post "Maybe
the "long lost nephew" might work. But Jim, how do a nephew...I'll e-mail ya.)

Hi Deb :o)

I'm listening to The Tops Live At The MGM Grand right now...

By Ralph (209.240.198.62) on Wednesday, December 04, 2002 - 09:58 pm:

Aljaydu,
I have to watch Little Shop Of Horrors every once in a whle just to hear Levi's superb performane . The " Suddenly Seymour " duet is killer also.

By Lucy (205.188.209.38) on Wednesday, December 04, 2002 - 10:33 pm:

Hi Deborah,
As I recall,Alan wanted to marry your Sister,Kelly.He even called your Dad "POPS IN LAW".
Not nice,my friend!!!!!!!
I always told you,(I hope you remember)that you should do stand-up!!!!
He would have me laughing so hard,I would cry!!!!!!
ALAN....YOU ARE TOOOO FUNNY!!

By Aljaydu/Creole/Alan (68.18.112.227) on Wednesday, December 04, 2002 - 11:41 pm:

Come on........
It's reasonable...
Right?????
Ri...?????

Er....Um...next subject...

Hi Deb...
Hi Lucy...
Hi Jim...
Hi Ralph...I also dig "Mean Green Mother" and the duet between Audrey II and Audrey.
Mr. Ashford...how are you?
Bayou...

By DntBThtGrl (204.58.233.6) on Thursday, December 05, 2002 - 08:44 am:

Hi Deborah!! It's Tisha! How was your and the family's holiday?? I hope it went well. Tell uncle Levi I said hello, and we are thinking about him!!

By Deborah (63.77.247.13) on Thursday, December 05, 2002 - 11:04 am:

Hi Tisha !!!!

It's good to hear from you !!! I was beginning to
wonder why you weren't posting.....after all you
started all of this !!!! (smile)

Thanksgiving was fine and Dad really enjoyed it!
How's your mom and the family ? I am really
hoping to get out that way soon !! I simply love
Las Vegas !!! So much excitement !!!

Well, keep in touch, and I am going to send you
and your mom some info about the family reunion
coming up next year. It was in Detroit last year
and moves across the country year after year.

As soon as I get information from the host city
for next year I will let you know.

Take care and keep in touch !!! Say "hi" to Pat.

Deborah

By DntBThtGrl (68.99.25.49) on Saturday, December 07, 2002 - 12:13 pm:

Yes, I will definitely tell my mom you said hello, and I for sure want to make the reunion, and hopefully I can get little Darcel to go and my grandma and mom. That would be nice. Can't wait to see all of you. I talked to my dad last week, he said he was going to New York, so when he gets back I will mention the reunion to him. If you need my mom's info for when you go to Vegads, jus e-mail me and I will send you her numbers!! Nice to hear from you!! Be good!!

Tisha

By Lucy (152.163.188.68) on Monday, December 09, 2002 - 09:42 pm:

Good Evening,Deborah,
Just checking in to see how my BELOVED LEVI IS DOING?
I saw The Tops on the PBS special....NOT THE SAME WITHOUT YOUR BELOVED DAD.
I CONTINUE TO PRAY FOR HIM....I LOVE THE MAN.

BEST REGARDS,ALWAYS

By DEBORAH (63.77.247.13) on Tuesday, December 10, 2002 - 09:42 am:

Hi Lucy,

Dad is doing well. Thank you for asking, and
thank you for your continued prayers and support.

Let's just pray that things will turn around real
soon and he will be able to go back to doing
what he loves to do best !!!

Love ya,

Deborah

By ALJAYDU (68.18.113.50) on Sunday, December 15, 2002 - 10:51 am:

Hello Deborah,
How are you and the rest of the family? I pray that all is good. Amen.
I have a question for you that's been eating away at me since 1973 (actually, I was going through my Parents old "albums" and ran across this album that was dated 1973...Nice try, huh?).
The lp..."Main Street People"...who are the four little ones on the front cover?

By ALJAYDU/Creole (68.18.113.50) on Sunday, December 15, 2002 - 11:02 am:

BTW...I could probably put a photo of the lp (Main Street People) on this thread if I can finger out how to do it. :o)

By DEBORAH (63.77.247.13) on Monday, December 16, 2002 - 10:56 am:

Hey Creole,

I honestly don't know right off the top of my head
but I will make an effort to find out.

I'll let you know as soon as I can !!!!

Deborah

By ALJAYDU/Creole (68.18.97.97) on Tuesday, December 17, 2002 - 12:42 pm:

I'm gonna try and post the lp cover, Deb...wish me luck...

By ALJAYDU/Creole (68.18.97.97) on Tuesday, December 17, 2002 - 12:44 pm:

Oops...didn't work...


***************HELP*************

HHAHAHAHAHAHahahahahHA

By Lucy (64.12.97.7) on Tuesday, December 17, 2002 - 09:35 pm:

Hey Creole,
How are you????
Hi Deborah....Hate to be a pain....But,HOW IS YOUR BELOVED DAD TODAY??????
TELL HIM I WILL NEVER STOP PRAYING FOR HIM....AND OF COURSE I LOVE HIM.
DOES YOU'RE FAMILY ENJOY AND LOVE THE XMAS CD AS MUCH AS ALL OF US DO??????

BEST REGARDS,
LUCY

By ALJAYDU/Creole (68.18.96.132) on Wednesday, December 18, 2002 - 07:29 am:

I'm gonna try again, Deborah.
Wish me luck...
here goes...

By ALJAYDU/Creole (68.18.114.230) on Wednesday, December 18, 2002 - 08:54 pm:

By ALJAYDU/Creole (68.18.114.230) on Wednesday, December 18, 2002 - 08:58 pm:

By Aljaydu/Creole (68.18.114.230) on Wednesday, December 18, 2002 - 09:00 pm:

OK...Ok...Ok...
I give up !!!
Anyone out there in CyberWorld knows how to pictures on this forum????

By Pal (213.123.49.36) on Thursday, December 19, 2002 - 03:55 am:

I'm sure David would help.

E-MAIL the photographs to him at the address on the left.

david@soulfuldetroit.com

By Aljaydu/Creole (68.18.112.117) on Thursday, December 19, 2002 - 06:23 am:

Thanks Pat. Dave has just been e-mailed.

By David Meikle (62.252.128.6) on Thursday, December 19, 2002 - 01:03 pm:

Thanks for you noter Aljaydu. The question is who are the 4 little ones on the front of this album cover? Hope you can help.

By jarpea (216.163.246.73) on Thursday, December 19, 2002 - 02:44 pm:

Hi! I just stumbled on this while looking for info on Levi. I have been a fan for years and years. I first saw the Tops at the Howard Theater in the mid 60's and have followed them ever since. I have never had the pleasure of meeting them but that is a dream of mine. I did see them last year (your Dad wasn't there)and it was not the same. I must say that their 1994 T & T concert was the best I had ever seen them. Tell your Dad he is in my prayers and in my heart.

By Nancy (24.101.72.243) on Monday, December 23, 2002 - 12:15 am:

Dear Deborah:

I just wanted to wish you and your family well during this holiday season, I never had the pleasure seeing the four tops live but I just wanted to let you know tha I have been a fan of their music for years.
Again all the best
Nancy

By SisDetroit (68.42.209.170) on Monday, December 23, 2002 - 12:12 pm:

Deborah - Wishing you and your family a happy holiday, and all best in the coming year. Give your Dad a hug for me, and tell him we love him. Let him know he has given me so much enjoyment with his beautiful voice. Thank God for him.

By Dixon (63.101.17.207) on Monday, December 23, 2002 - 12:22 pm:

There was some English band, I believe, that had a single out during the 80's called "Levi Stubbs' Tears". I never heard the song and am not really curious to hear it because it would probably diminish an absolutely perfect song title. If you know and love the Tops' music, "Levi Stubbs' Tears" says all you need to know, right?

By Sue (64.12.97.7) on Monday, December 23, 2002 - 12:57 pm:

That would be Billy Bragg who did "Levi Stubbs' Tears"! Billy is a huge Motown fan, and in fact when he was in Detroit doing a newspaper strike benefit, I had a friend bring Bobby Rogers of the Miracles to meet him at rehearsal. Billy pulled out of his wallet an ancient, folded-over "Smokey Robinson and the Miracles Fan Club" card, and showed it to Bobby ...

By Aljaydu/Creole (68.18.97.229) on Monday, December 23, 2002 - 01:52 pm:

Dixon, "Levi Stubbs Tears" is a beautiful song. You've gotta hear it !!!! If you want it, I (hopefully) can send it to you. E-mail me at: aljaydu@yahoo.com

By DEBORAH (63.77.247.13) on Monday, December 23, 2002 - 02:15 pm:

MERRY CHRISTMAS EVERYONE!!!!!!!

I'D LIKE TO PERSONALLY THANK EACH AND EVERYONE OF
YOU FOR YOUR CONTINUED PRAYERS AND SUPPORT FOR
MY DAD, LEVI STUBBS.

OUR FAMILY HAS TRULY BEEN TOUCHED BY YOUR CONCERN
AND WELL WISHES. I CAME ONTO THE FORUM ABOUT SIX
MONTHS AGO, AND SINCE THEN I HAVE BEEN ABLE TO
TALK TO ALL OF YOU WONDERFUL PEOPLE THAT HAVE
WORKED WITH MY DAD, OR BEEN A FAN OF THE "TOPS"
AND BELIEVE ME IT HAS REALLY BEEN AN UPLIFTING
EXPERIENCE.

PLEASE CONTINUE TO KEEP MY DAD, DUKE, OBIE, AND
THEO IN YOUR PRAYERS !!!

MAY GOD BLESS YOU ALL...MUSICIANS, PRODUCERS,
ENGINEERS, FANS....AND YOUR EXTENDED FAMILIES.

MAY YOU A BLESSED AND JOYOUS CHRISTMAS SEASON
AND A HAPPY AND PROSPEROUS NEW YEAR!!!!

LOVE,

DEBORAH STUBBS AND FAMILY

By Ralph (209.240.198.62) on Monday, December 23, 2002 - 03:03 pm:

Deborah,
The best Christmas to you and your family. What a blessing for this forum to have you keeping us informed on the good progress of your beloved father. May everything good come your way in the new year.
Ralph

By Sam Papa (64.12.97.7) on Monday, December 23, 2002 - 05:19 pm:

Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year to Ralph, Deborah,Levi and Family and Obie, Duke, Theo, Ronnie and their Families as well, and last but not least the Family of the late, great Lawrence Payton. You will be forever in my thoughts and prayers.

Sam Papa

By stranger56 (24.47.62.28) on Monday, December 23, 2002 - 11:56 pm:

Deborah,

It's no surprise that Levi would have a daughter as wonderful as you are. You are a shining reflection of your father.
God bless you and the entire Stubbs family.
Merry Christmas to you all, and a very Merry Christmas, not only to the Tops and their families, but to all of you on this board who keep the music playing with your wonderful memories and posts.
A Happy, Happy New Year to all of you!

Jim

By Brian (207.254.198.232) on Tuesday, December 24, 2002 - 08:11 pm:

Deborah,

Hope the holidays are great for you and your family as well at the entire Tops family tree. You all are in my prayers.

Soon I will begin writing my thesis for my master's degree. The topic is the versatility and broad acceptance of Motown music and how it crossed all barriers: race, age, sex, you name it. What has put the subject so heavily on my heart has been the friendship and closeness of the Four Tops, and how you're father was quoted as saying about his parents that they lived and died in Detroit and he plans on staying where his roots are as well. The closeness he potrays in his family life and everlasting friendship with the Tops inspired me. Not only has your your father's music inspired me to spread the word about it and how it has affected society as a whole over the years, but it has touched my soul and heart. I thank you for that and many other memories. I am 23 and do plan to cherish the music and man forever.

Hope to interview Duke or Obie or SOMEBODY maybe the end of next year. Do I get in contact with a manager or so?? How would I do that? Thanks for everything..in my prayers.

Brian Sherman

By DELPHINA 1@AOL.COM (216.148.246.134) on Wednesday, December 25, 2002 - 01:43 pm:

DO U REMBER WHO WAS THE BOUNCER AT THE 20 GRAND &NAME.LATTER CALLED MR 20 GRAND?

By Lucy (205.188.209.38) on Wednesday, December 25, 2002 - 09:18 pm:

Dear Deborah,
Merry Christmas to you and your family!
May all of you be blessed with good health and happiness always.I continue to pray for your BELOVED DAD.
Many of us know each other on this board,and I am extremely happy to have met you.
You are a CLASS ACT.

BEST REGARDS ALWAYS,
LUCY

By Aljaydu/Creole (68.18.113.249) on Thursday, December 26, 2002 - 04:10 pm:

Whoa !!!! Lucy, you met Deborah???? That's deep !!! Too deep (Creole's sitting in his chair...scratching his head. Not because he's trying to figure out why he hadn't met Levi or Deborah, yet, but because his head itches).
How was everyone's Christmas? Best wishes for the New Year to everyone.

Stranger...where you at???

Take Care,
God Bless,

Love,
Alan

By Lucy (205.188.209.38) on Thursday, December 26, 2002 - 09:32 pm:

Creole,
NO,my dear I haven't met Deborah in person,I met her through this forum...which thanks to you I would have not found.
BUT,I HAVE MET THE MAN HIMSELF....MY BELOVED LEVI!!!!

YOU KNEW THAT DIDN'T YOU??????

LUCY

By medusa9e (66.73.11.56) on Sunday, December 29, 2002 - 06:44 pm:

Hello,
I went to Pershing HIgh School N Detroit and i remember Deborah, Gary Boatner, and Danny Boatner. If this is the same Deb i knew then, her last name began with a C. Hi Deb., i hope your Dad is much better and i hope u have a happy New Year. I think u also went to Farwell Jr. High, am i right? If so, then i do remember u. reach out and touch me at my e-mail address. Yes, i still live in the Motorcity.
Take Care Deb.

By SisDetroit (68.42.209.170) on Thursday, January 02, 2003 - 05:15 pm:

(((DEBORAH))) (((LEVI)))
"Happy New Year!"

By Russ Terrana (198.178.8.81) on Thursday, January 02, 2003 - 05:47 pm:

Deborah, I had the pleasure of working with your dad for many years at Motown. If anyone asked me what my favorate mixing project in the 22 years I was with Motown, I would say the 4 Tops "Still Waters" Alblum. Frank Wilson was the producer and he and I had a great time mixing that album. I was always a big fan of your dads, I would say that Levi could sing anything and make it real! His talents are only equaled by the great guy he is.

By CHUCK (207.175.231.246) on Sunday, January 05, 2003 - 12:01 am:

HELLO DEBORAH,HELLO MR LEVI STUBBS JR, I HOPE THIS MESSAGE GETS TO YOU MY NAME IS CHUCK GRAY, I LIVE AT 2221 "BERNADETTE" ST OXNARD CA 93030, IF YOU WERE HERE, AS ASKED ANYONE WHO KNOWS ME WHO THE FIFTH"S TOP IS THEY WOULD SAY CHUCK. BOY HOW I MISS ALL THE TOPS TOGETHER. FIRST SAW THEM IN 1967 AT WHISKY A GO GO HOLLYWOOD. FIRST HEARD THEM ON THE RADIO IN 1964 IN LAS VEGAS, AND I REALLY FELL IN LOVE WITH SOME GREAT, I MEAN GREAT VOICES NEVER IN A LIFE TIME AND A DAY WILL THEIR BE ANOTHER LAWRENCE, OBIE, DUKE AND LEVI STUBBS PLEASE, REALLY PLEASE GIVE HIM OUR LOVE FROM ME MY WIFE AND MY GIRLS WHO ALSO CAME TO FALL IN LOVE WITH MEN WHO SING FOR A LIVING AND ENJOYED DOING IT. BY THE WAY YOUR FATHER MIGHT KNOW ME AS THE ONE ON THE WEST COAST AND LAS VEGAS WITH ALL THE ALBUM COVERS AND THE BANNERS. BY THE WAY I DO HAVE EVERY ALBUM THEY PUT OUT INCLUDING "HOT NIGHTS" ON A ALBUM. BOY I HAVE A LOT TO SAY AND I WISH I COULD SAY IT TO HIM. PERHAPS SOMEDAY/SOMEWAY TO LEVI AND THE FOUR TOPS "WE LOVE YA"

By John Lester (217.41.77.67) on Sunday, January 05, 2003 - 03:15 am:

A question to Russ (the man who put the beep in "Reflections") Terrana

When you mixed "Still Waters", did you leave the Andantes vocals in the final mix? Were there other vocals from another group...people talk about the Delicates featuring later Undisputed Truth members?

Shake those brain cells for me PLEASE!!!

By Clay (66.73.180.243) on Sunday, January 05, 2003 - 04:06 am:

Delphina1
One of the Bouncers at the Twenty Grand name was HENRY and the other bouncers name was DON. They were both really nice guys who did'nt have to show force to people,because all the folk that came in the Club had
a lot of Class and came there to have a good time and enjoy the show. In all the years I went to the 20 Grand I don't ever remember any Bouncer/Patron duels
and in most cases conversation always cooled out any problems. Peace

By John Lester (217.41.77.67) on Sunday, January 05, 2003 - 08:31 am:

You know, I have always found that music has a calming influence on people. Not only that, it breaks down barriers....sometimes I meet people that are from such totally different backgrounds that I marvel at how lucky I am.

By Nancy (66.185.85.72) on Monday, January 06, 2003 - 07:30 pm:

John: I could not agree with you more. music really brings people together, I have found it to be very successful in the classroom, I teach pre-school up here In Toronto normally just childrens music is played but when I started I decided why not introduce different types of music to children so I started bringing in everything from motown to jazz to classical, the kids really get into motown, The group I have now ,I can put on Junior Walker or the temps or the tops and they grab each other and start dancing it is really something to see.

By Sue (64.12.97.7) on Monday, January 06, 2003 - 07:35 pm:

Nancy --

That's adorable. I wish you had video of that so we could see. R&B greats are going to teach music to children at the Stax Soulsville museum in Memphis, by April, they're opening a music academy -- hopefully we'll have the Funk Brothers doing that soon here in Detroit ...

By john Lester (217.40.207.114) on Monday, January 06, 2003 - 07:42 pm:

Nancy .

I went to a typical East End of London school (read that as full of boys that were really not interested in learning). They used to shout and scream in class and generally cause a disturbance. Out of the blue, the head teacher subjected the whole school to a performance of music by REAL musicians. I always recall the chattering before it started and then immediately after the first song finished, you could hear a pin drop.

Whereas football and other competitive sports can create a negative atmosphere as rivals try to diss each other, music doesn't seem to have the same effect. I mean, did you ever hear about Beatles fans fighting with Stones fans. So I was smart as a kid, I got into music instead of football!! Nevertheless I still got my lights put out a few times!!

By Nancy (24.101.72.243) on Monday, January 06, 2003 - 10:07 pm:

Sue:
I have lots of pictures I will post when I get them developed, can you tell me more about the program at the museum in Memphis

John :
I can relate to your story, you introduce any kind of music and the noise just dies in the room it is as you mentioned before a very calming influence, one other story that I would like to tell you guys about is at my first job. I had a little boy with global developmental disorder, he could not speak, I began experimenting with introducing alot of musical games and activities into the class, he would always become very calm and it seemed to be the one thing that he could participate in , well his first words were sung not spoken, it happens apparently with 1 child in a 100 who does not have the ability to talk, that is the power of music

By Sue (152.163.188.68) on Tuesday, January 07, 2003 - 12:47 am:

Nancy --
A former songwriter at Stax, Deanie Taylor, is the director of the opening-in-April Stax Museum of American Soul Music. There's also a Music Academy attached to the museum. It's on the site where Stax Records once stood, in Memphis.

They were lucky enough to get an infusion of cash from private investors -- $5 million -- and broke ground last year. The museum will document soul music from all areas, not just Memphis -- Philly, Chicago, Detroit, etc. And musical greats will be tapped to come lecture to the students. The idea isn't necessarily to produce the next Carla Thomas or Smokey Robinson, but also to help kids learn things like math, teamwork, social skills etc. through learning music.

The Motown Museum people are watching closely and want to do similar programs; their problem is getting the cash to do it.

By Nancy (24.101.72.243) on Wednesday, January 08, 2003 - 03:06 pm:

Thanks for the info Sue I have emailed them asking whether I can come down to observe once they get things started
Nancy

By RTA5225 (64.12.97.7) on Tuesday, January 21, 2003 - 06:28 pm:

Hi Deborah and Other Tops Fans!

Wow! What a God send that someone on the Motown Message Board at AOL would send me this. I posted a message asking if anyone knew any updated info. about Levi and how he's doing and I got this! Thanks Deborah for keeping us updated on your dad and how he's doing. I have been a 4 Tops fan since 6th or 7th grade (which was a long, long time ago)! Your dad and the guys couldn't have been out there too long! Anyway, I've also been lucky enough to meet him and the guys on several occasions. All of them are so nice! I remember the first time I saw your dad walking toward a group of us after a concert to give autographs and take pictures, I was intimidated 'cos I was wondering if he was gonna be snotty, nice, moody or what? Deborah, he was SO nice. He's SO down to earth and all of the guys are very fan friendly! I am so fortunate that God allowed me to meet them. And now there's this forum...another gift. Please know that you, your dad, family and the guys are in my prayers and I am hoping that he will be able to do what he loves best tooand more importantly that he is healthy and happy!!!! Take care! Renee'(Cleveland, Ohio)

By ALJAYDU/Creole (172.129.171.184) on Thursday, January 30, 2003 - 10:00 pm:

Deborah, how are you? Looong time, no hear from.
How's your family? How's your Dad? How's Duke's, Obie's, Theo's and Lawrence's Family?
There's this guy, Chuck, who wrote above that he has "hot Nights" on album.
HEY CHUCK, THIS IS ALJAYDU FROM NEW ROADS, LA. DO YOU REALLY HAVE THE "HOT NIGHTS" LP? IF IT'S REALLY THE ALBUM, WHAT WILL IT TAKE TO GET A COPY?
TELL ME. AS LEVI SANG IN "MIDNIGHT FLOWER", "NO PRICE IS TOO HIGH." E-MAIL ME AT:
aljaydu@yahoo.com

Anyhoo...
Stranger, where you at? Lucy??? Anybody....

By DEBORAH (63.77.247.130) on Friday, January 31, 2003 - 02:52 pm:

Hello Everyone !!!!

Happy New Year !!! (Better late than never I guess)!!! I have been thinking about you all and
intending to write, but life has been a little
on the busy side lately so please forgive me !!!

My Dad is doing wonderful and sends you all his
love and gratitude. Please continue to keep him
and the Tops in your prayers.


Love you all,

Deborah

By stephanie (205.187.255.146) on Friday, January 31, 2003 - 10:19 pm:

Deborah
Tell Levi he is in our prayers and we are ready to hear him get on stage (when he is ready) to shout
Bernadette
and Just Ask the Lonely!!!! Im glad he is doing better and he should take it slow and take all of the time he needs. We miss seeing him but his health is more important. Until then we can always break out the Four Tops records and continue to support the legacy by going to see the other guys with Obie and Duke.
Stephanie

By Carl Dixon London (62.31.40.155) on Friday, January 31, 2003 - 10:58 pm:

Hi Deborah, we've missed you. Please give your dad our 'sweet understanding love'. I got a DVD for Christmas of The Four Tops in Vegas, plus countless CD's. He is never far from our thoughts or prayers.

By Vonnie (205.188.199.53) on Friday, January 31, 2003 - 11:04 pm:

Deborah,

Your dad is in our prayers, we are very happy he is progressing.

Vonnie

By PhilH (203.221.53.118) on Saturday, February 01, 2003 - 08:03 am:

Hello Deborah,

I'm going to steal one of Smokey's lyrics and send you and your Dad "more love and more joy than age or time can ever destroy".

All the best,

Phil

By Lucy (64.12.102.152) on Saturday, February 01, 2003 - 05:30 pm:

Dear Deborah,
How wonderful to hear from you!!!
THANK GOD FOR THE NEWS ON "MY BELOVED LEVI".
PLEASE TELL HIM HE IS LOVED BEYOND WORDS.
I MEAN LOOK AT THIS FORUM!!!!!!!!!!

BEST TO YOU AND YOURS,
LUCY

By Lucy (64.12.102.152) on Saturday, February 01, 2003 - 05:32 pm:

Hey Creole,
Here I am!!!! How are you?????
Hope all is well.

Lucy

By Aljaydu/Creole (172.148.42.109) on Saturday, February 01, 2003 - 05:52 pm:

Lucy, there you are. I'm great. Everything's beautiful. Life's grand.

I'm in deep sorrow about the Shuttle accident today. My prayers are sent out to the fathers, mothers, sisters, brothers, cousins, wives, husbands, cousins, sons, daughters of those that lost a Loved one.
May God bless...

Alan

PS: Hi ya, Deborah!

By Lucy (205.188.192.33) on Sunday, February 02, 2003 - 03:14 pm:

Creole,
I agree...ANOTHER TRAGEDY FOR THIS BELOVED COUNTRY OF OURS.MY THOUGHTS AND PRAYERS ARE WITH THE FAMILIES.MAY GOD BLESS THEM AND MAY THE VICTIMS REST IN GOD'S CARE.

By MightyMite (172.129.156.38) on Wednesday, February 05, 2003 - 10:32 am:

Hello All. I see some familiar faces in here: LUCY, CREOLE, STRANGER. Good seeing you. Thanks for the invite, (((((CREOLE)))))

By ALJAYDU/Creole (68.18.96.126) on Wednesday, February 05, 2003 - 02:02 pm:

Mighty Mite...how are you? Glad to see that you could make it. Deborah, Mighty wants to know if you can contact Theo and ask him to call her.
The Tops are going to be at the Virginia Beach Pavillion on July 18th. Tell him to give her a "Shout Out" on stage when they perform.

(See, Mighty, I'll look out for ya!)

By Lucy (152.163.204.69) on Friday, February 07, 2003 - 10:15 pm:

Hey Mighty.....How nice to hear from you again!!!
Hope all is well.

Lucy

By John Barry Sheffield (195.92.168.168) on Monday, February 24, 2003 - 09:20 am:

Monday Breakfast 24th February 2003 England

Dearest Deborah

That is such GOOD NEWS about your Father LEVI, I have only just read it about his return to the stage, a big large smile appeared on my face and tears rolled down my face!

LEVI is always here in my Prayers in England, LEVI and The TOPS have been such an inspiration to my life, the first single I bought at 12 was THE FOUR TOPS, the first ever concert I went to in Liverpool, was THE FOUR TOPS at 14, told School I had a dentist appointment and Mom I was playing Rugby, I had never been to Liverpool on my own before, a 25 mile train Journey, this was while all my pals where into Punk & Rock Music here in the UK. I then never missed one TOPS TOUR!

At 18 I became a Radio DJ and it was my joy to play FOUR TOPS old songs and THE NEW RELEASES, LEVI and The Guys came into The Radio Station many times, and we promoted their Concerts at THE LIVERPOOL EMPIRE.

Sadly Lawrence died the same month as I lost my Mom and only Brother to leave me with no Family, LEVI I have alwayy looked on as a FATHER I feel such a warmth from Him, when he took sick I missed HIM, but I continued to Pray for LEVI and always will do. I have every album released on CD in my collection and quite a few signed including the Box Set (John Lester in London - Thanks John, gave me one of he's CD NOW to complete my collection)

I am on Long Term sickness at present but THE FOUR TOPS still meam THE WORLD to me, I made it last year to the UK Tour in Manchester, but sadly it was not the same without my Dad LEVI on stage, but I knew and know His Health comes first.

Now I have quite a collection of Video footage of LEVI and The Four Tops, "ASK THE LONELY" is still my favourite and I cry so much hearing that the soulful voice of LEVI, watching him on screen just brings tears to my eyes, but that is for all THE ENJOYMENT - INSPRIATION and ENCORAGE,ENT he has given me now for 35 Years!

DEBORAH thanks for all the information I have only just found the Soulful Detrout Forum, in the last hour I have read all your posts this morning, please give Your FATHER my LOVE, I still long to get a nice photo signed to JOHN by my Father LEVI to get framed and hang on my wall.

What a community FOUR TOPS FANS are, the have also been a strength to me but Your Father LEVI is SPECIAL and always will be, GOD BLESS HIM, I know he will return !!! with strength!

Yours with Love To YOU and all The Family - John

John Barry Sheffield

P.S. DEBORAH, when is someone going to sit down and write THE FOUR TOPS AUTOBIOGRAPHY/STORY it will be so sad if this is not put down on words for music lover of The Future!

By John Barry Sheffield (195.92.168.168) on Monday, February 24, 2003 - 09:26 am:

Monday Afternoon 24th Feb

Hi Deborah, just been able to look at a picutre of "Dad" LEVI on stage on Theo's site! it brought more tears of JOY! to see Him he looks so well.

Love Him So Much - John

By Margie (130.76.64.15) on Monday, February 24, 2003 - 04:05 pm:

All,

Lucy, thanks for the pointer to this Forum. I've read thru all the messages and I just want to add my voice. Levi is in my prayers every night!! I pray he returns to health and lives a long and happy life with family and friends around him. In my minds eye I can see him bouncing great grand babies on his knee, singing a sweet lullaby!!

Margie

By DEBORAH (63.77.247.130) on Tuesday, February 25, 2003 - 09:49 am:

Hi Margie,

It's funny you would mention great-grand babies!!!
The latest edition to our family was born on
Feb 4,2003!! This is my dad's 6th great-grandchild
so you are right....he is surrounded by quite a
large happy family!!

Deborah Stubbs-Boatner

By MargieYa (130.76.64.16) on Tuesday, February 25, 2003 - 02:33 pm:

Hi Deborah,

Thank you for sharing that wonderful information! As much as I regret never seeing your dad perform in person, I am even more delighted to know that my prayers are being answered by regaining his health and being surrounded by friends and family. Just knowing that washes away any regret or disappointment.

Please know that not only the people here, but the fans who frequent the MSN Four Tops sight are praying for him and we love him. Your dad and Duke and Obie (and Lawrence, God rest his soul) are the very best of mankind.

Thanks again.

Margie

By Aba (208.191.122.205) on Wednesday, February 26, 2003 - 02:04 pm:

I also saw Levi and the Tops at the Howard theatre i DC. I don't know if it is known on this site but Levi performed with the Tops and Temps recently in Philly. They had to carry him on the satage but he did sing I Can't Help Myself. Let's Hope he is on the road to recovery. He is one of the great voices of our time.

By Lucy (64.12.97.7) on Wednesday, February 26, 2003 - 04:11 pm:

Dear Deborah,
I just saw the pictures of you BELOVED DAD ON THEO'S SITE.HE LOOKS WELL,AND TEARS ARE RUNNING DOWN MY FACE.
CONGRATULATIONS ON THE NEW GREAT GRANDBABY.
BUT,ALL OF US SHOULD THANK GOD FOR BRINGING THIS BELOVED MAN AND THIS VOICE FROM GOD BACK TO US.
I BELIEVE WE WOULD ALL AGREE THAT WE DON'T CARE IF HE CAN ONLY SING 1 SONG.

GOD BLESS

LUCY

By MargieYa (130.76.64.16) on Wednesday, February 26, 2003 - 10:30 pm:

Lucy,

Can you send me the a link to Theo's site? I can't for love nor money find out where you saw the picture you're talking about.

And I wholeheartedly agree - is he sings just one song, and is wheeled out in a wheel chair - just seeing him alive and well - that's so heartwarming.

If Norman Whitefield would only release the new album we keep hearing about!!!

By John Barry Sheffield (195.92.168.169) on Thursday, February 27, 2003 - 03:48 am:

Thursday Morning - England


Hi Margie

Here is the site address for Theo and the Pohotos of LEVI!

http://photos.groups.yahoo.com/group/theopeoples/lst?.dir=/Ytown+Show&.src=gr&.order=&.view=t&.done=http%3a//briefcase.yahoo.com/


Thanks John

By SisDetroit (68.42.209.170) on Thursday, February 27, 2003 - 10:36 am:

Some Yahoo Clubs do not share their pictures unless you are a member of the club. Some of them will not share their postings either.

I think anything great should be shared.

By DEBORAH (63.77.247.130) on Thursday, February 27, 2003 - 10:42 am:

Hi Aba,

Glad you were able to see the show with the Tops
and my Dad Levi. One minor correction.....
he performed with the group in Youngstown, Ohio.
It is my understanding that he was not carried
onto the stage, but helped on by Obie and Ronnie.

He really enjoyed being out there with them to say
the least and is really looking forward to going back out again real soon !!!


Deborah Stubbs-Boatner

By Aba (208.191.122.205) on Thursday, February 27, 2003 - 12:40 pm:

Main Street People, Still Waters and What Is a Man are three of my favorite lps by the Tops. From Main Street i really like ONE WOMAN MAN and on What Is A Man I like Don't Bring Back the Memories and Do What You Gotta Do. It goes without saying that Macarthur Park is one of the best Tops tunes ever.

By MargieYa (130.76.64.16) on Thursday, February 27, 2003 - 02:29 pm:

Deborah,

Is your dad planning to go back out on tour? While this would be fantastic for the fans, and in the 40th Anniversary DVD, you can just see how much he enjoys entertaining, I wouldn't want anything to happen to him!!! And I don't think the fans want anything to happen to him either. I get worn out driving 40 miles one way to work in rush hour traffic in LA - so I can only imagine what a toll touring takes on someone.

If he does return to touring - great. But if it any way could (even remotely) jeopardize his health in the slightest, would you please ask him to reconsider? From some of the things that have been said about what a wonderful man he is, I would much prefer he live a long happy life with you and the rest of his family.

Thats my prayer for him.

Margie

By Creole (68.18.112.166) on Monday, March 03, 2003 - 10:36 am:

Hi Deborah...In the words of AOL..."you got mail".

How are you and the family? I pray that all is well.
Congrats on the new addition to the family.

Any new info on your Dad and the TOPS on general?

Stay in touch...

Creole

By LUCY (64.12.97.7) on Monday, March 03, 2003 - 12:56 pm:

HELLO THERE CREOLE!!!!!
HOW ARE YOU????
KEEP IN TOUCH.

By LUCY (64.12.97.7) on Monday, March 03, 2003 - 01:09 pm:

GOOD AFTERNOON,DEBORAH,
HOW IS MY BELOVED LEVI,TODAY?
TELL HIM I'M PRAYING FOR HIM,AS I ALWAYS DO,AND THAT......WELL YOU KNOW....I LOVE THE MAN.
I AM LISTENING TO "THE MAN'S" VOICE AS I'M WRITING.

HAVE A GOOD DAY.

By LUCY (205.188.209.38) on Wednesday, March 12, 2003 - 01:14 pm:

Hi Deborah,
How is my "BELOVED LEVI?"
DID HE HAPPEN TO SEE AMERICAN IDOL LAST NITE?????
TRIBUTE TO MOTOWN,WITH MR. LAMONT DOZIER AS A JUDGE!!!!!
DOESN'T GET ANY BETTER THAN THAT.

PLEASE TELL YOUR DAD "I LOVE HIM"
I CONTINUE TO PRAY FOR HIM.

GOD BLESS