If you're a fan of classic Motown music, then you've surely heard of Smokey Robinson. He's one of the most iconic figures of the genre, with a career that has spanned several decades. So, come take a journey with me through the musical biography of Smokey Robinson, and explore his beginnings, most famous albums and songs, and his musical style and influences.
Smokey Robinson was born in Detroit, Michigan in 1940 and grew up singing in church and on street corners, where he met future bandmates. He founded The Miracles, which became one of Motown Records' biggest acts in the 1960s. The group performed hits such as Shop Around and You've Really Got a Hold on Me. Robinson also wrote many of the songs for other Motown artists, including Marvin Gaye's Ain't That Peculiar and I'll Be Doggone.
Moving forward in time, Smokey Robinson gained much success with his solo career, working with other Motown artists like Stevie Wonder and Marvin Gaye. One of his most famous albums, A Quiet Storm, released in 1975, overturned the sound of Motown and was the blueprint for quiet storm radio format. This album gave us the classic hit, Baby Come Close. He continued his solo career with hits like Cruisin' and Being With You, throughout the ‘80s.
Some of Robinson's most famous songs include Tears of a Clown, which he wrote and performed with The Miracles, I Second That Emotion, Tracks of My Tears, and The Way You Do The Things You Do, which he wrote for The Temptations. One of his most notable appearances came in 1985 when he reunited with The Miracles for their first album in several years and performed with them at the Live Aid benefit concert in Philadelphia.
Robinson's musical style, can be described as a soulful singer with a smooth voice with a touch of grit, and much of his work draws on the influence of gospel music, from his childhood in the church. He also allowed other genres to meld and influence his sound. As a songwriter, Robinson often explored themes of love, heartache, and social issues. He received the 2016 Library of Congress Gershwin Prize for Popular Song for his lifetime achievement in songwriting.
Smokey Robinson's music has touched many generations with his relatable lyrics and soulful sound. His ability to write hit songs, to sing them and influence other artists was and still is remarkable. His music legacy will not be forgotten anytime soon, multiple generations will continue grooving and dancing to his beats.
