Smokey Robinson is only second to Berry Gordy in terms of Motown’s founding. He wrote over 4,000 songs and had 37 Top 40 hits, including “Tears of a Clown,” “Tracks of My Tears,” and “Love Machine.” Robinson was also the vice president of Motown Records, where he wrote and produced hits for groups like The Temptations (“My Girl”) and Mary Wells (“My Guy”).
Early Career: The Miracles
Smokey Robinson, a singer, songwriter, and record producer, was born William Robinson Jr. on February 19, 1940, in Detroit, Michigan. Robinson began singing in local groups as a child growing up in a rough neighborhood. He founded the Matadors in the early 1950s, which later became the world-famous group The Miracles. A chance meeting with record producer Berry Gordy Jr. resulted in a contract with Motown Records and a valuable working relationship.
The Miracles’ first big hit was “Shop Around” (1960), and they quickly gained a following with their upbeat R&B sound. “You Really Got a Hold on Me” (1962) and “I Second That Emotion” (1967) were two of the group’s many hits. Robinson also worked behind the scenes for The Miracles and other Motown artists such as Mary Wells and The Temptations, composing and producing. His work aided Motown Records’ success and increased the popularity of soul music.
Solo Career
Robinson went solo in 1972, developing a more laid-back sound for himself. He was often associated with romantic soul music, releasing albums such as A Quiet Storm (1974) and Touch the Sky (1983). He was struggling with a drug addiction during the mid-1980s. In his 1989 autobiography, Smokey: Inside My Life, Robinson openly discussed his cocaine addiction as well as many other personal issues. His religious faith has been credited with his recovery from substance abuse.
Robinson went on to win his first Grammy Award as a solo artist in 1987, for the song “Just To See Her” from the album One Heartbeat. His subsequent solo releases included Double Good Everything (1991) and Intimate (1999). In 2004, he took his work in a new direction, releasing Food for the Spirit, a collection of music reflecting his spiritual beliefs.
In Recent Years
Robinson, who is still a popular entertainer, continues to perform live. He has also been active as a public speaker, giving talks to groups about his personal experiences. In order to explore new business opportunities, Robinson founded Smokey Robinson Foods, which includes a line of ready-to-eat meals.
Robinson was named a Kennedy Center Honoree in 2006 for his contributions to the arts and American culture, and he was awarded an honorary degree from Howard University. That same year, he released Timeless Love, an album that featured Robinson’s take on several classic songs, including Cole Porter’s “Night and Day” and the Gershwin brothers’ “Our Love Is Here to Stay.”
Robinson, a dedicated entertainer, continues to record new music and maintain a busy touring schedule. He released his studio album Time Flies When You’re Having Fun in 2009. Robinson made an impression on the television show Dancing with the Stars in 2012. The Miracles were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame around the same time.
Smokey & Friends (2014), a duets collection, and Christmas Everyday (2017) are two more albums by the legendary singer.