Gary Grier obit

Gary Grier, long time member of Motown’s The Contours, dies

 

He was not on the list.

(January 27, 2025) We are sad to report the passing of Gary Grier, a three decade member of the legendary Motown act The Contours.  A seasoned performer with a commanding stage presence, Grier played a vital role in preserving and rejuvenating the legacy of The Contours. Known for his smooth, magnetic energy, Grier joined the legendary Motown group in 1993.

Detroit vocalist Joan Belgrave posted about Grier, “Being silly was just Gary Grier. Always a smile. Always a kind word, always a big hug. He was not only a member of the Legendary Motown group The Contours, he was the sweetest person on earth.”

The Contours first captured the hearts of music lovers in the early 1960s as part of the Motown stable. Their breakout hit, “Do You Love Me“, written by Berry Gordy, became an enduring classic, soaring to No. 3 on the Billboard Hot 100 in 1962 and solidifying their place in music history. With its infectious beat and soulful energy, the track became a dancefloor anthem and has remained a cultural touchstone, famously featured in the 1987 film Dirty Dancing. Beyond “Do You Love Me”, The Contours released other favorites like “Shake Sherry” and “Can You Do It”, showcasing their raw energy and knack for irresistible grooves.

Gary Grier embraced the responsibility of carrying the Contours’ legacy forward, bringing his distinctive flair to the group’s timeless catalog, and charming audiences with energetic renditions of classic hits in the group’s many live performances.

Fans around the world are mourning Grier’s passing, and so will we. Rest in peace.