The Four Tops formed in Detroit in 1953, originally named The Four Aims. They’re a cornerstone of American pop music and helped propel the Motown label to international recognition. Although ostensibly a soul vocal group, I find the band interesting in how broad they were stylistically and in the variety of material they adopted. The current incarnation of The Four Tops are touring this year with The Temptations. They’re hitting the UK this summer, with a run that includes a date at the Royal Albert Hall.

I’m joined this episode by Lawrence Payton Jr. from the current line-up, the son of founding member Lawrence Payton who passed away in 1997.

Lawrence had a lot to say about growing up around his dad’s band, and why the Tops should still be on the road in 2026. He was great company.

Please leave a nice review or star rating with your podcast provider.

You can find me on Instagram @sendingsignalspodcast