When it comes to soul music royalty, few names shine as brightly as Smokey Robinson. As the silken voice behind The Miracles and a groundbreaking solo artist, Smokey didn’t just sing hits—he wrote the blueprint for Motown’s golden era. His lyrics drip with poetry, his melodies melt hearts, and his voice? Timeless. From the smoky clubs of Detroit to stages around the world, Robinson’s music has soundtracked generations of love, heartbreak, and everything in between. With a career spanning over six decades, he’s penned and performed some of the most unforgettable songs in R&B history—each one a masterclass in emotion, storytelling, and soul-soaked elegance.
In this countdown, we dive deep into the top 10 most popular Smokey Robinson songs of all time—tracks that not only climbed the charts but also carved their place in the hearts of millions. Whether you’re a lifelong fan or discovering his magic for the first time, this list is a journey through the rich, romantic, and revolutionary soundscape of one of music’s greatest legends. Get ready to revisit classics that made Motown move and the world swoon. These are the songs that defined an era—and an icon.
1. “The Tracks of My Tears” (1965)
Released in 1965, “The Tracks of My Tears” is often hailed as Smokey Robinson’s lyrical masterpiece. Performed with The Miracles, the song blends heartache with poetic elegance, capturing the pain of hiding sorrow behind a smile. Its signature guitar intro and lush harmonies set the stage for Robinson’s emotive falsetto, which delivers lines that feel both personal and universally relatable. The song became an anthem for anyone masking heartbreak, and its raw honesty helped elevate Motown’s artistic credibility. “The Tracks of My Tears” remains a pillar of soul music, frequently cited among the greatest songs ever recorded.
2. “Cruisin’” (1979)
“Cruisin’” marked a smooth and sultry turn in Smokey Robinson’s solo career. Released in 1979, the track is a slow-burning romantic groove that invites listeners into an intimate ride of love and connection. With its mellow instrumentation and seductive vocal delivery, the song captured a new generation of fans while maintaining Robinson’s signature lyrical charm. The chorus—gentle and catchy—became instantly memorable, and its relaxed vibe made it a staple on late-night playlists. “Cruisin’” proved that Smokey could reinvent himself without losing the tenderness that defined his early work.
3. “Tears of a Clown” (1970)
Originally recorded in 1967 and released as a single in 1970, “The Tears of a Clown” became a surprise chart-topper for Smokey Robinson & The Miracles. Co-written with Stevie Wonder and Hank Cosby, the song pairs a buoyant, almost circus-like melody with deeply melancholy lyrics about emotional isolation. This brilliant contrast between sound and sentiment created a compelling paradox that listeners found irresistible. Smokey’s expressive voice brought vulnerability to the fore, making the song a standout hit that not only topped the Billboard Hot 100 but also cemented his legacy as a master of complex emotional storytelling.
4. “You’ve Really Got a Hold on Me” (1962)
Released in 1962, “You’ve Really Got a Hold on Me” was a breakthrough moment for Smokey Robinson & The Miracles, showcasing Smokey’s ability to channel emotional conflict into soul perfection. The song explores the push and pull of a toxic relationship with aching sincerity, wrapped in a simple yet powerful melody. Its influence was so profound that The Beatles famously covered it just a year later. The rawness of the lyrics, paired with Robinson’s pleading vocals, made it one of the defining tracks of early Motown and a cornerstone of 1960s R&B.
5. “Being with You” (1981)
With “Being with You,” released in 1981, Smokey Robinson delivered one of his most commercially successful solo hits. The song’s smooth production and heartfelt lyrics struck a chord with audiences worldwide, peaking at #2 on the Billboard Hot 100. Unlike some of his earlier, more metaphorical work, this track is direct and earnest, celebrating love with a sense of maturity and devotion. Its polished pop-soul sound made it a favorite for radio and romantic dedications, proving that Smokey’s voice and songwriting had only grown richer with time.
6. “Ooo Baby Baby” (1965)
“Ooo Baby Baby” is a slow, aching ballad that showcases the full emotional range of Smokey Robinson’s voice. Released in 1965, this track became one of The Miracles’ most beloved songs, revered for its delicate harmonies and pleading sincerity. The melody is minimal but deeply affecting, allowing Smokey’s falsetto to shine as he sings of regret and longing. It’s a song that speaks directly to the heart, and its timeless quality has led to countless covers by artists across genres. Few ballads manage to sound this vulnerable and refined at the same time.
7. “I Second That Emotion” (1967)
Released in 1967, “I Second That Emotion” blends clever wordplay with irresistible Motown rhythm. The title itself is a playful twist on a common phrase, and the song’s lyrics explore cautious love with wit and charm. Backed by The Miracles’ tight harmonies and a vibrant instrumental arrangement, Robinson delivers the verses with a mix of warmth and self-assuredness. It’s a song that balances fun and sophistication, making it a standout in the Motown catalog and a favorite among fans who appreciate Smokey’s more upbeat, tongue-in-cheek side.
8. “Shop Around” (1960)
“Shop Around” was released in 1960 and became Motown’s first million-selling single, signaling the label’s arrival on the national stage. Written by Smokey Robinson and Berry Gordy, this track is a clever piece of advice from a mother to her son, warning him not to settle too quickly in love. Its bouncy rhythm and conversational tone made it instantly engaging, while Robinson’s smooth vocal delivery kept it soulful. As The Miracles’ first major hit, “Shop Around” laid the foundation for Smokey’s career and helped shape the sound of early Motown.
9. “Baby That’s Backatcha” (1975)
A funky, confident departure from his earlier romantic ballads, “Baby That’s Backatcha” marked Smokey Robinson’s first solo #1 on the Billboard R&B chart in 1975. The song pulses with a modern groove and a playful tone, reflecting the evolving sound of mid-’70s soul. Smokey’s lyrics are flirtatious and full of swagger, and the production leans into funk influences without abandoning his smooth vocal style. It was an important moment that proved he could thrive as a solo artist in a rapidly changing musical landscape.
10. “Just to See Her” (1987)
“Just to See Her,” released in 1987, was a triumphant moment in Smokey Robinson’s later career. With its elegant arrangement and heartfelt lyrics, the song radiates longing and romantic devotion. Smokey’s voice, slightly aged but still golden, adds authenticity to the song’s message of enduring love. The track earned him a Grammy Award for Best Male R&B Vocal Performance and reintroduced him to a new generation of listeners. “Just to See Her” is the sound of a seasoned artist still in command of his gift, delivering soul music with grace and emotional resonance.
Samuel Moore is a frequent contributor to Singers Room. Since 2005, Singersroom has been the voice of R&B around the world. Connect with us via social media below.
