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Harvey Fuqua Obituary
Ron Brewington of the Motown Alumni Association says Fuqua died of a heart attack Tuesday at a Detroit hospital.
The Louisville, Ky., native founded the R&B-doo-wop group the Moonglows, which signed with DJ Alan Freed. The group's first single was the 1954 hit "Sincerely."
Fuqua added Gaye and others in 1958 to a reconstituted group Fuqua called Harvey and the Moonglows. It had the 1958 hit "Ten Commandments of Love."
He started Tri-Phi and Harvey Records in 1961, recording the Spinners, Junior Walker & the All Stars, and Shorty Long.
Motown Records founder Berry Gordy later hired Fuqua to develop recording talent.
Copyright © 2010 The Associated Press
311 Entries
Ronnie DeFino
June 2, 2025
Growing up in the 50´s I listened to his music on a little radio in bed at night. "Sincerely" miss him and his music. He was a pioneer and a great person.
July 26, 2017
WHAT A WONDERFUL MAN!!
Lois Weiss
July 16, 2017
you were a great inspiration to what good enjoyable music was like in the early decades. Much gratitude for your expectations. & hard work. RIP!
How you can show support
May 28, 2015
To one of the true pioneers of today's modern sound. Mr. Harvey Fuqua may you find eternal music and love.
Janet Wachter
September 22, 2014
I am listening to you sing with Etta James as I am writing this and want to say RIP Mr. Fuqua. thanks for the great music...Janet Wachter Arizona
Shirley Thomas
April 20, 2012
Some great artists would have gone unnoticed if it were not for great artists and business-minded people such as Harvey Fuqua. "Sincerely" was one of my favs as was Fuqua and every teenage-under-the-street-light-on-the-corner wannabes crooned "Ten Commandements."
My condolence to the Fuqua family. May your wonderful memories forever help you to endure and your love of Christ will see you through. God Bless each and every loved one of Mr. Harvey Fuqua.
Lenny Thomas
June 18, 2011
Harvey, you were a great teacher and friend. I will always treasure the time I spent working and learning from you in the 70's, God Bless You. Lenny Thomas (Toronto, Ca.)
February 6, 2011
what a unique voice and a real showman, I will forever cherish your style of singing and enjoy the songs for many years, thanks harvey fuqua for the memories, Herb Urlahs, Joppa Md.
C M
January 31, 2011
Psalm 90:10 states, "In themselves the days of our years are seventy years, And if because of special mightiness they are eighty years..." Although he lived a long life this does not relieve the pain that is felt by his loved ones. May our Heavenly Father give these ones strength and comfort through the Scriptures. Please accept my sincere condolences during this time of your loss. May the God of all comfort, bring comfort to the family and friends of Mr Harvey Fuqua. We look forward to the time when sickness and death is a thing of the past.
Diane Rouse
January 29, 2011
ONE OF THE BEST ! Thanks Harvey for the memories. You & music like this is MISSED!
Charles Jones
January 28, 2011
He will be dearly missed and (God Bles).
ODELL JONES
January 11, 2011
MAY GOD REST YOUR SOUL HARVEY FUQUA...YOU WILL ALWAYS BE THE BEST!.....THE MOTOWN FAMILY WILL ALWAYS LOVE YOU
Anita Lambert
October 31, 2010
Another great loss from the music world
has gone on to the Big Beat in Heaven.
After seeing all the shows we could get to, to see the Moonglows and hear our favorite songs left a lot of good memories.
When I saw Harvey and the Moonglows on the PBS Special and they did Ten Comandments of Love, not only did it bring back the best memories ever, it brought real tears to my eyes.
We will miss you Harvey ..
Stanley Flemmings
October 6, 2010
"You taught me, immensely, about music theory and appreciation while attending seminars at Honey Records. Maybe one day we will be able to continue creativity."
September 2, 2010
As the days and weeks pass, and as you return to life's routine, may you continue to feel comforted by the love and support of family and friends.
johnny ace
August 16, 2010
R.I.P. Harvey...You, your songs, & your beautiful "blow harmony" will NEVER be forgotten!!!
Vicki Daniels
August 10, 2010
How Great Thou Art-all ways.
HARVEY-- JANICE BARNETT
Janice Barnett
August 9, 2010
HARVEY -- JANICE BARNETT --WILLIAM GUEST
Janice Barnett
August 9, 2010
Todd Blatti
August 5, 2010
What a contribution Harvey has been - upbeat, positive, and light-filled! I am very thankful to have known him and his music.
Debbie/Mike Onwuegbuna
August 5, 2010
May your hearts soon be filled with wonderful memories of joyful times together as you celebrate a life well lived.
Michael DeArmey
August 5, 2010
Vocal group harmony is an art-form, like cubism or Frank Lloyd Wright houses. Mr. Fuqua was a leader in creating this art form. The Moonglows' "Baby Please" is the finest R & B recordng ever made. Long live Harvey Fuqua in the memories of his fans. Michael DeArmey.
Ruby Woods
August 4, 2010
Harvey's music touched me years before I encountered COLM. I did not meet Harvey personally but the love and light of COLM makes me feel connected. Peace be unto you all.
James White Jr
August 4, 2010
Our thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.
Shaun brown
August 4, 2010
Love and Miss Harvey Will be a General in the Army of Light.
Noni
August 4, 2010
What a player! What a game! Harvey you played the game of life like the master that you are. Thank you for sharing your gifts with the world.
Stanley Robinson
August 3, 2010
Happy to have had you in my life. You will be missed knowing your spirit lives on.
Love you
Stanley Eugene
Jack & Marilyn
August 3, 2010
Dear Family of Harvey: We are honored to have known Harvey in our lifetime! There is no doubt that Harvey will be leading many heavenly beings in classic DooWop as beautiful angels sing Sincerely in the celebration of his life on earth. We think of him with Love!
Glyndora
August 3, 2010
Harvey, A Kind and Gentle man.
Thanks for sharing your Wonderful Music
with the world.
Patrick Murray
August 3, 2010
I myself am in mourning for a fellow Louisville native who made music history. In tribute to this great man's cultural contributions, I have been diligently playing some of his finest recordings as leader of the legendary doo-wop group The Moonglows. His record "Sincerely" helped lift the curtain on the Rock Era, but that does not even scratch the surface when it comes to great tunes from that decade. Some of my personal favorites include "I Just Can't Tell No Lie," "219 Train," "See-Saw," "Most of All," "Secret Love," and "I Knew From the Start." Those and so many other reasons add up to explain why Harvey, to me and countless others, shall forever be of blessed memory.
anonymous
August 3, 2010
I was fortunate enough to have been able to know him as "Granddaddy". I attended the service for the family tonight and it coul not have flowed more perfectly. Of course bsedies the family, many of the Mo Town family was present. IT was a true celebration of a great man who's contributions have reverberated his influence among many. I know that now he is playing the piano and singing his deep soulful voice, in an eternally peaceful place...in between playing golf! ???
Richard Phillips
July 30, 2010
I interviewed Harvey Fuqua at the R&B Awards in NYC and he was a wonderful and friendly person. I have played Moonglows recordings on my radio shows for over 40 years. He was a giant in the business. His legacy of music will endure forever. DJ Rockin' Richard Phillips www.wnhu.net
Tia Geanette
July 29, 2010
Mr. Fuqua was a very pleasant person and easy to talk to. The family is in my prayers...
Clara Ruffin
July 27, 2010
Celebrating a life well lived. We will cherish the memories forever.
HANK DIXON & HARVEY @ THE HOUSE OF BLUES
HANK DIXON
July 27, 2010
Harvey, we love you, you'll be missed.
Rebecca & George Davidson
July 27, 2010
Mark Gornstein
July 27, 2010
We will miss Harvey "Most Of All".
One of the true giants of Doo Wop has left us.
Eternal peace to you Harvey.
Annette Helton
July 27, 2010
You are truly going to be missed Harvey. May you forever "Rest In Peace"
Annette-"Original" Vandella"
hank dixon
July 26, 2010
harvy was a great mentor to my brother george duke dixon of the spinners an myself hank dixon of the originals he will surely be missed i love you
Bucky Smith
July 26, 2010
To Harvey: I was a little older than you, and you and I (among some others in our age group), provided guidance and protection to some of the younger Motown artists. At one time, I was Marvin Gaye's bodyguard, valet, and driver. Later, I became the same for the Temptations. I just wanted your family to know that indirectly you and I were on the same team, and we did our part. My granddaughter is an actress. Her name is Tasha Smith (one of the twins). Thank you for the wonderful things you did for the Motown "heyday" era!
"Bucky" Roosevelt Smith
rosalind holmes
July 26, 2010
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
Susaye Greene, Songwriter
Susaye Greene
July 26, 2010
Harvey was a gentleman creator, whose wisdom and grace charmed all who met him. I will never forget recording the lead for "Until It's Time For You To Go", and writing other songs with Harvey. He was the great teacher, musician personified and fun loving friend who was always generous with his talent, his time and his knowledge. Bravo, Harvey: You were the Man!
Love from Susaye Greene
Sonja Allison
July 26, 2010
Mr. Harvey was one of my bank customers. From the first day I met him he told me he was "My Daddy". Each time we talked he always put a smile on my face. Even through his travels, he would make sure to contact me. He was a wonderful person. I will truly miss "My Daddy" but I know he is in heaven making those around him smile.
Clancy Seaford
July 26, 2010
Harvey...aka Harv
We miss you so much and your ditto's..Cay Mae tells us alot that you are in her heart and that you talk to her all the time, she is so sweet...and of course Carsen misses you dearly with her "love you too"...You have been a great friend to my mom and a great person toward me and Luke and my kids...They are happy that they will see you again in Heaven...Carsen and Caylee thinks its funny because you are having a singing party in heaven...They got there jackets you bought them from the rock n roll hall of fame and even though its 100 degrees they wear them around the house...they miss you so much and they just want to talk to you but at night when they say there prayers I am sure you hear the conversation they have about you...You are one of the most forgiving humans I know and the most generous humans I know...God Bless you and we will see you in Heaven one day...
Sandy Fleming
July 25, 2010
Harvey...A Great Man, A Wonderful Friend...Thanks for loving me and my family and being an important part of our lives. We Love You and Miss You so much. Thanks for talking to Cay Mae through her heart. She tells me that you are in heaven with your mom, Blue and Kibbles, and hopes that you got a room close to ours so we can see you again when we get to heaven. I hope so too.....Ditto, Ditto, Ditto. Sandy
Caylee Mae Fleming
July 25, 2010
Harvey, I Love You and I really miss you. God is taking care of you. We say our prayers every night for you and your family. You named me "SweetFace". I Love so much, Caylee Mae, your God-Daughter
Carsen Fleming
July 25, 2010
Harvey has always loved me. He named me "Cuteface". I know Blue is happy to see you. Harvey will be in our hearts and we will always love you. Love, Carsen, your God-Daughter.
Rose
July 25, 2010
RIP Harvey you were a terrific guy. When I was very ill in the hospital Harvey called my home and left a voicemail singing "Sincerely" to me I will always cherish that memory.
Rose Las Vegas
Cyndy Russell
July 25, 2010
You will be missed by all who love you.
Thank you.
R.I.P
Harvey the singer, the producer and the sweet human being will be missed.
Mary Wilson
July 24, 2010
Harvey the tall handsome gentleman always greeted you with a smile. He was a very uncomplicated man who seemed to always smile. He was a hero and contributed so much to the world of music, surely he is conducting the musical choir in heaven with all of the other musical greats.
Touch
Mary Wilson of the Supremes
Tiny
July 23, 2010
Harvey I'm going to miss you. You,Prentiss and Marvin were like big brothers to me. I'll never forget the good times we had.
R.I.P
Harvey, Reggie, Smokey
Reggie Adams
July 23, 2010
July 23, 2010
Dear Sweet Carolyne,
I will miss watching you and Mr. Quaz singing, dancing and laughing together!! You made a great team in life and now you have a very special guardian angel watching over you. He was truly loved and admired by all. He will be greatly missed. All my love to you and your entire family as the world celebrates and remembers the life of a talented and beautiful soul.
~~Peace & Blessing Always~~
Questlove of The Roots
Questlove
July 23, 2010
On Wednesday 7th July 2010, Questlove Twittered:
(Hug)to my manager @ Tina Farris Tours. Her grandfather, the awesome Harvey Fuqua passed away today. Personal hero of mine. In the 50's he was a pioneering doo wop artist on Chess Records (Harvey & The Moonglows). In the 60s he introduced fellow Moonglower Marvin Gay to his pal's sister Anna Gordy who in turn turned him into "MARVIN GAYE". Fuqua also brought The Spinners to Motown as well, in addition to serving as Marvin's faux father figure and producer for his Tami Terrell duet period. Although never credited I do know that he was the guiding force that held Marv's hand as Marv embarked on what would be his most controversial move (at least for a pop artist in 1971) which was the political "What's Going On?" (Berry was very much against the idea of the creator of the most popular song in Motown's history (at that point) to ruin it all with a protest song.Fuqua had life after Motown as producer of 70s funk outfit New Birth and of the disco gospel pioneer Sylvester.
For those who've read Gaye's Divided Soul biography pretty much know that whilst Gaye was in exile in belgium "Father Fuqua" once again assisted in helping Marvin get back on track recording the demos that would eventually turn into the biggest feat of Marvin's career: the Midnight Love album.
Fuqua (who often ran with my pop in doo wop circles) had high praise for us whenever the Roots were in whatever town he was visiting (sometimes NC sometimes in L.A.)- never once hesitating to answer any of my many questions about his journey from his 5 decades in music. We lost a great one today, but his work ethic and tireless spirit is something I'll hold on to and utilize until its my time to go.
Rest in Power Harvey Fuqua!
Reggie Gordon
July 22, 2010
Harvey, thank you for allowing me to sing with the last shows as a moonglows in 2010. I know you appreciated me singing the Bobby Lester part, I enjoyed singing with the greatest. A great memory for me. God Bless
God Bless Us All!
Larry Buford
July 22, 2010
To the family: I met Mr. Fuqua for the first time several years ago at Janie Bradford's Heroes and Legends Awards, but it seemed like I had known him all my life. His name was on so many of my favorite Motown songs whether as writer or producer. I also learned about his history with the Moonglows, and was presently surprised to hear him singing "If I Can't Have You" with Etta James. I will never forget his stature, his friendly smile, and gentleman's handshake. The world is a brighter place for his lifelong contributions! As Gwen Gordy-Fuqua would say, "God bless us all."
Harvey Fuqua Carolyne johns-Fuqua Janice Barnett - Reggie Adams ( S.T.A.R.S.)
Janice Barnett
July 22, 2010
Janice Barnett
July 22, 2010
Errol Aubry
July 22, 2010
Harvey, I will miss you very much. You always had me cracking up when you called me "Erow" instead of Errol. Nobody else could get away with that but you. I love you man and will miss you very much! Errol
Min. Derron Jenkins
July 22, 2010
Everything in life is built on a foundation. From this foundation we build up, onto, and around. Some people in our lives represent the foundation of who we are today because their love, advise and care has helped some to keep standing, keep moving, and keep striving.
Thank you Mr. Fuqua for your guidance and instruction to the many, and for your wittiness and your love that will be missed, but never forgotten!
My sympathy to you all...my heart to the family, my heart to Marilyn Freeman.
July 22, 2010
I met Harvey 1 week after the death of Marvin Gaye his kindness and his sense of humor always had something to say to keep a smile on your face.
We have lost another legend; they don't make them like that anymore.
My sincerest condolence to the family and to Marilyn Freeman.
Prophet Tommy Thomas
Cindy Frederick
July 22, 2010
Though I have only met you for a short time, you will be truly missed. May your soul continue throughout the universe continuously watching over your loved ones.
Staci Thornton
July 22, 2010
It is unbelievable to think my Uncle is gone. Although I know you are still right her with me asking me "Well can you get anymore beautiful" or seeing Chad and sayin "Heeeey Baby Brother" I LOVE YOU MUCH MISS YOU MORE. LOVE YOU TOOOOOO MUCH for this here cyber space LOL. And so it is FUQ :)
JT Warren
July 21, 2010
I shall always remember the first time I met Harvey and how he filled my car not only with his size but with his smile and laughter. I feel honered to have known him and shall always be greatful for the time spent with him. A perfect gentleman in every way, We have lost another great one.
Sylvia Aubry
July 21, 2010
Harvey
My Dear sweet Brother Inlaw I will truly miss seeing that beautiful smile. Everytime I saw you you would sing to me "A pretty girl is like a melody" And you always made me feel I was a pretty girl. We had a lot of wonderful times together. I'm so thankful you were part of our wonderful family. I love you.
Sylvia
Margo Lovett
July 20, 2010
When we pour libation, we must call your name!
Diane DeJong
July 20, 2010
Great person the industry will miss!!!
Sonny Sanders
July 19, 2010
To you Harvey....
One of the ultimate gentlemen in the world of music. What a blessing to
have known you.
July 19, 2010
to my friend always . had laughs and good times as working and being creatvie I will miss him. don boss foss foster
Betty Kelley
July 18, 2010
Some People Come Into Our Lives And Quietly Go,Some Stay For Awhile And Leave Footprints In Our Hearts.You Harvey were One Of Those People.
1st album on the Queen of Beach Music -- Janice -- produced by Harvey Fuqua 1970's
Janice Barnett -Adams
July 18, 2010
New release Xmas CD ) produced by Harvey Fuqua/Reginald Adams/ Janice Barnett-Adams
Janice Barnett -Adams
July 18, 2010
William Quest of Glady's Knight & The Pips -- produced by Harvey Fuqua, Carolyn Johns-Fuqua & Reggie Adams
July 18, 2010
Harvey Fuqua - Janice Barnett -- Rocking Ray - Maurice Williams - Rocking Ray at BIig Boppa's
July 18, 2010
Gospel produce By Harvey Fuqua - Carolyn Johns- Fuqua & Reginald Adams
Janice Barnett
July 18, 2010
Picture of Janice and Harvey for press release for new joint label N-fligIht Records. First gospel CD was Just As We Are (Various Artists)
Janice Barnett
July 18, 2010
Mary Herndon
July 17, 2010
To the family: I will never forget the first time I saw Harvey with the Moonglows at Carrs & Sparrows Beaches in Annapolis, MD and they did "The Ten Commandments and I Only Have Eyes for you." They were the greatest. Please know that I share your loss and pray God's richest blessings upon you that you will haved the strength needed at this critical time in your lives. God Bless you all... Mary Herndon, Clinton, North Carolina
David Dingus
July 17, 2010
Thank you Harvey for all you did for the Music Industry and for being a great friend....Rest in peace my friend. You will be missed and loved forever....
Janice Barnett- Adams
July 17, 2010
Harvey-- My life will never be the same without you in it. You are my mentor, my dad, my only producer-partner. You are god father to my children, trained my husband to produce. My very best friend. Who will I call now when I need a real friend? I love you. I never could have made my dreams come true without you. I am the Queen of Beach Music because God chose you - A King - to birth me out. I thank god for the last 5 years that you spent with us in Shelby.N.C. with your wife Carolyn sharing your gifts of music and the love of our Lord Jesus Christ. Oh how you would weep under the annointing. You touched so many lives. I couldn't stop crying when Carolyn asked me to preach your eulogy. First beause it is a great honor and second -- how can I do it without falling apart? I thought we had more time. I must make it to heaven -I can not imagine living my life forever without you in it again. Carolyn I love you and thank you for sharing Harvey with us all. We will forever be changed. Heaven is happy now! Harvey has come home. He always cried at the mention of Marvin Gaye. Now he can rejoice and hurt no more. Jesus help us be as kind as he was. I miss my friend. Janice Barnett- Adams (The Queen of Beach Music)
J.J. Johnson
July 16, 2010
I never had the pleasure of meeting you and only recently found out how extensive was your influence on my favorite music. The above notwithstanding, yours was a ubiquitous presence in my universe even way back when I was totally unaware of you as a person. I feel fortunate to have been here at the same time as you. Perhaps we'll yet get to meet. I can hope.
Ludie Montgomery
July 16, 2010
Dear Harvey; If I could talk to you at this very moment I would tell you what a phenomenal legacy you are leaving us. May God welcome you with open arms into his Heavenly Abode. Thank you so much for your gifts and talents! Ludie Montgomery
Ron Brewington
July 16, 2010
Rest well, Brother Harvey...You will be missed!!!
P.S. Please give our best to Marvin, Tammi, David and the rest of the folks!!
Spookey Esparza
July 16, 2010
Harvey you were always so so good with all your fans. I just want to thank you. May you rest in peace.
Spookey Esparza
Orange, CA
www.chicano-magazine.com
Mable John
July 15, 2010
Harvey, we will miss you, thank you for
sharing you gift.
dr. mable john
Reggie Adams
July 15, 2010
Harvey you're a real Man I will miss you. I will always remember the times when you would pray and then start crying, never afraid to show your emotions. You've been a greeeeeeeeeeat DAD to me. BLESSINGS
July 15, 2010
ah-ah-ah.. woop woop woop.. harvey told us about the ten commandments of love. and many of us are still thanking him for that.. smile.. charmaine kennedy\boston ma
Scherrie Payne
July 15, 2010
Another legend gone on. It's a loss for us but a gain for the choirs in Heaven.
It's never "Goodbye", only, "I'll see you later".
Maggie Thomas
July 15, 2010
We will always be THANKFUL for Mr. Fuqua's gift and his contributions.
Michael McGill
July 15, 2010
Harvey Fuqua, wii never be forgotten,
and was the major influence in the career
of The Mighty Dells. Harvey, Bobby Lester,
Prentiss Barnes, & Pete Graves P.K.A.
The Moonglows, were responsible for molding The Dells in their image in the 50's.
Without Harvey Fuqua, there would be NO
Marvin Gaye, No Spinners, and NO Dells.
"Rest In Peace" Harvey
Janie Bradford
July 15, 2010
Harvey
I will miss you not returning my phone calls. Just showing up when you have not sent in your RSVP... But the Glory is..that you were always there for 50 years... and most of all I WILL MISS. YOU.
Gloria Taylor
July 15, 2010
Your spirit lives forever.
Kitty Sears
July 15, 2010
Another great loss. Rest in peace "Harvey
Conrad H & Delores Bullard
July 15, 2010
Our 50 years together are cherished! A wonderful pioneer and role model for all dedicated to quality music in the Entertainment Industry. Deep love, compassion and comfort to the Harvey Fuqua Family...
Kitty Sears
July 15, 2010
Celebrating a life well lived. We will cherish the memories forever.
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