Smokey Robinson is an American singer, songwriter, and record producer, widely regarded as one of the most influential figures in the history of Motown. Known for his smooth tenor voice and lyrical genius, Robinson played a pivotal role in shaping the sound of Motown through his work with The Miracles and as a solo artist. His contributions to music have earned him numerous awards and accolades, making him a living legend of soul and R&B.
Smokey Robinson Career Highlights
1955 Forms The Miracles, a vocal group that would later be signed to Motown, marking the beginning of a long and fruitful relationship with the label.
1960 The Miracles release "Shop Around," which becomes Motown’s first million-selling hit and establishes Robinson as a successful songwriter and performer.
1965 Writes and produces hits for other Motown artists, including "My Girl" for The Temptations and "Ain't That Peculiar" for Marvin Gaye, solidifying his reputation as a top songwriter.
1972 Leaves The Miracles to pursue a solo career, releasing the album Smokey, which showcases his ability to remain relevant in a changing music industry.
1979 Releases Where There’s Smoke…, featuring the hit "Cruisin’," which revitalizes his career and becomes one of his signature songs.
1981 Releases Being with You, with the title track reaching No. 2 on the Billboard Hot 100 and proving his lasting appeal as a solo artist.
1987 Inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, recognizing his impact on popular music and his contributions to Motown.
2006 Receives the Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award, honoring his legacy as a songwriter, singer, and producer.
Smokey Robinson Band - Collaborations
The Miracles Co-founder and lead singer, performing hits like "The Tracks of My Tears" and "You’ve Really Got a Hold on Me."
Worked closely with other Motown artists like The Temptations, Marvin Gaye, and Diana Ross, contributing to their success through his songwriting and production.
Smokey Robinson Grammy Awards
1988 Best R&B Vocal Performance, Male for "Just to See Her"
2006 Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award
3 Most Famous Smokey Robinson Songs
- The Tracks of My Tears (with The Miracles)
- Cruisin’
- Being with You
Smokey Robinson Scandal/Gossip/Trivia
1970s Struggles with addiction, which he later overcomes, becoming a vocal advocate for sobriety and health in his later years.
1980s Transition from The Miracles to a solo career is initially challenging, but he manages to reinvent himself and achieve solo success.
2000s Continues to perform and record, showing remarkable longevity in the music industry and remaining a beloved figure in R&B and soul.
Smokey Robinson ratings
Songs: 150