Smokey Robinson is an iconic American singer, songwriter, record producer, and former frontman of the legendary vocal group, The Miracles. Born William Robinson Jr. on February 19, 1940, in Detroit, Michigan, Smokey Robinson’s smooth tenor voice, poetic lyrics, and innovative musical arrangements have made him a revered figure in the realm of soul, R&B, and pop music.
Robinson’s career began in the late 1950s as a member of The Miracles, where he served as the group’s lead vocalist and primary songwriter. With hits like “Shop Around,” “The Tracks of My Tears,” and “Tears of a Clown,” Robinson and The Miracles established themselves as one of the most successful and influential acts of the Motown era. His soulful voice and heartfelt performances resonated with audiences worldwide, earning him the nickname “America’s poet laureate of love.”
As a solo artist, Smokey Robinson continued to captivate listeners with his romantic ballads and infectious melodies. Hits like “Being with You,” “Cruisin’,” and “Just to See Her” showcased his continued mastery of creating timeless, heartfelt music that crossed generations.
Robinson’s contributions to popular music extend beyond his own recordings. As a prolific songwriter and producer, he penned hits for numerous artists, including Mary Wells, The Temptations, and Marvin Gaye. His songwriting skills and ability to craft melodies that tug at the heartstrings have solidified him as one of the greatest songwriters in the history of popular music.
Throughout his career, Smokey Robinson has been recognized with numerous awards and accolades, including inductions into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, the Songwriters Hall of Fame, and the Kennedy Center Honors. His influence on the music industry and his enduring legacy as a soulful crooner and gifted songwriter continue to inspire and delight music lovers around the world. Smokey Robinson’s smooth voice and heartfelt lyrics have left an indelible mark on the fabric of soul and R&B music, making him an enduring icon.
1. The Tears of a Clown
Robinson's hit song about a clown who hides his sadness behind a smile is one of his most iconic tracks. The catchy melody and upbeat tempo belie the underlying emotional depth of the lyrics. With its blend of Motown soul and pop sensibility, "The Tears of a Clown" has stood the test of time and remains a beloved classic to this day.
The song was co-written by Robinson, Stevie Wonder, and Hank Cosby, and was first released in 1970. It quickly became an international success, reaching number one on the UK charts and peaking at number seven in the US. The distinctive circus-inspired intro, complete with calliope music, sets the mood for the playful yet poignant lyrics that follow.
Robinson's smooth vocals perfectly capture the bittersweet emotions of the song's protagonist as he struggles to hide his pain from those around him. The juxtaposition of melancholy lyrics with an upbeat melody makes for a powerful combination that continues to resonate with listeners today.
Behind the scenes, "The Tears of a Clown" had an interesting backstory: it was actually originally released as a B-side to another single but gained popularity as DJs began playing it more frequently than the A-side. This led to its official release as a single and ultimately its status as one of Robinson's biggest hits.
Smokey's crooning on this track is enough to make even a stone-faced statue shed a tear.
2. Tracks Of My Tears
This classic song captures the essence of heartbreak with its haunting melodies and melancholic lyrics. Smokey Robinson's soulful vocals tell a story of a failed relationship that left him broken and lost. "Tracks Of My Tears" showcases Robinson's ability to combine his unique voice with intricate arrangements that strike a chord with the listener. The song has been covered by numerous artists over time, but Robinson's original version remains timeless and legendary.
As one of Robinson's most celebrated tracks, "Tracks Of My Tears" is an epitome of 60s Motown sound, combining smooth harmonies with crooning falsettos. It features a dynamic horn section and vibrant percussion that elevate the wistful melody to new heights. Robinson's lyrics are poetic yet heartfelt, expressing raw emotions of love lost and pain endured. The song skillfully blends vulnerability and strength, creating an unforgettable listening experience.
In addition to its musical prowess, "Tracks Of My Tears" also had significant social relevance when it was released in 1965 in the midst of the civil rights movement. The song demonstrated not only Robinson's mastery as an artist but also highlighted his commitment to bringing issues of racial inequality and injustice into the mainstream consciousness through his music.
If you haven't already listened to "Tracks Of My Tears," you're missing out on one of the greatest songs in soul history. Its mesmerizing melodies and poignant lyrics will leave you captivated and moved for ages to come.
Listening to "You've Really Got A Hold On Me" is like being trapped in a frustratingly romantic spiderweb, but in a good way.
3. You’ve Really Got A Hold On Me
This timeless classic by Smokey Robinson is an embodiment of soulful harmony and emotive lyrics. It captures the essence of love's grip on our hearts, resonating with audiences for decades. The soothing melody and heartfelt delivery give 'You've Really Got a Hold on Me' an everlasting quality that speaks to the heartstrings of listeners.
Robinson's flawless vocals uplift the lyrics, making it one of his most cherished songs. With its catchy chorus, it immediately embeds itself in the listener's mind. The song has been covered by various artists over the years and remains an endearing anthem for love-filled hearts across generations.
The romantic nuances weaved into the smooth instrumentation and harmonious back-up vocals illustrate Smokey Robinson's genius as a songwriter. 'You've Really Got a Hold On Me' continues to evoke nostalgia for those who first fell in love listening to this classic hit.
As you delve into other songs from Smokey Robinson's discography, you may find some hidden gems that further showcase his artistry. However, make sure not to miss out on this masterpiece that continues to stand the test of time.
So if you haven't yet had the chance to experience this fantastic musical journey, be sure not to miss out—take a moment to indulge yourself in one of the best soulful ballads of all time.
Listening to 'Ooo Baby Baby' is like being wrapped in a cozy blanket of soulful nostalgia – the kind that can only be made by a legend like Smokey Robinson.
4. Ooo Baby Baby
Robinson's soulful classic "Ooo Baby Baby" showcases his immense vocal range, making it one of his most recognizable tracks. Combining a catchy melody with silky smooth vocals, Robinson delivers an emotionally-charged performance that still resonates today. The song's simple yet effective lyrical composition and exceptional musical arrangement have cemented its place in the pantheon of great R&B ballads. Its timeless qualities continue to captivate audiences around the world, enhancing Robinson's already formidable reputation as one of the greatest singers of all time.
In this mesmerizing ballad, Robinson pours out his heartbreak over lost love with raw emotional intensity, while the harmony and instrumentation complement his powerful vocals to form a perfect sonic backdrop. Through its universal themes of heartache and longing, "Ooo Baby Baby" has touched countless listeners since its original release in 1965.
Despite being recorded over five decades ago, the track has aged like fine wine – maintaining a sense of timelessness that few songs can boast. Whether you're discovering it for the first time or re-experiencing this iconic track once again, "Ooo Baby Baby" is sure to leave a lasting impression on your heart and ears.
Behind every great song lies an equally fascinating story. As it turns out, Smokey Robinson wrote "Ooo Baby Baby" about a former girlfriend who left him heartbroken – dredging up strong emotions that he poured into the songwriting process. The end result was a masterclass in soulful musicianship that transcends both genre boundaries and time itself.
Listening to 'I Second That Emotion' is like having a flirtatious conversation with Smokey Robinson himself.
5. I Second That Emotion
This iconic love song, with a catchy melody and poetic lyrics, is undoubtedly one of Smokey Robinson’s greatest compositions. ‘I Second That Emotion’ speaks to the universal feeling of uncertainty in a relationship, where commitment can seem daunting. Robinson’s smooth falsetto intertwined with the Miracles' harmonies maintains a dreamy mood throughout.
In addition to being a classic soul track, ‘I Second That Emotion’ has been praised for its innovative use of language and wordplay. It features Robinson's signature writing style that plays with idioms and expressions, incorporating them into unexpected lyrical combinations.
Listeners have adored this song since its release in 1967 and it continues to be a fan favorite that showcases Robinson at his best.
To experience the brimming emotions of 'I Second That Emotion', listen to this timeless piece today.
Smokey's groove is so contagious, even Mickey’s monkey can't resist dancing to it.
6. Mickey’s Monkey
This particular entry in the list celebrates Smokey Robinson's classic hit, featuring Mickey's Monkey. This funk and soul track is a milestone in the artist's repertoire, with an outright infectious hook and a rocking horn section that add depth to the groove.
The song was initially released as part of his time with The Miracles but later became renowned as it was included in his eponymous solo album, which cemented him as one of the most influential musicians of all time. This upbeat track showcases Smokey's versatility and highlights how he made his mark on different genres throughout his career.
It's important to remember that Smokey Robinson had written this song for The Miracles as part of their dance-centered lineup at Motown Records during the early 1960s, taking on an innovative approach with every release. It was a defining moment in music history when Mickey's Monkey revolutionized R&B soundscape into upbeat party jams that would go on to be cherished by decades to come.
This song is a perfect example of how Smokey Robinson wanted to produce 'feel-good' music while capturing significant moments in human life through lyrics and rhythm. With this tune, Robinson created an encouraging vision where people can get together and dance their blues away without any worries or troubles affecting them.
There are many other songs performed by Smokey Robinson throughout his career, but none has ever achieved the popularity level or overall impact that Mickey’s Monkey holds in American popular culture today.
"Going to a Go-Go? More like going to a why-did-I-ever-leave-my-couch situation, but Smokey's smooth vocals make it worth it."
7. Going To A Go-Go
This track is a classic example of Smokey Robinson's influence on the Motown sound. Its upbeat rhythm and catchy lyrics make it a timeless hit. Incorporating pop, funk and soul elements, 'Going To A Go-Go' showcases Smokey’s versatility as a songwriter and performer. The use of horns in the arrangement adds to the lively atmosphere of the song, perfect for getting people dancing. It's no surprise that this song has stood the test of time and remains a go-to party anthem for generations.
In addition to its infectious beat, 'Going To A Go-Go' also features Robinson's signature silky smooth vocals that complement the grooves perfectly. The song was written by Smokey along with fellow Miracles members Marvin Tarplin, Bobby Rogers, and Warren Moore.
Interestingly, despite being credited to both Smokey Robinson & The Miracles and just The Miracles, this song was one of their biggest crossover hits. It reached No. 11 on Billboard’s Hot 100 chart in 1965 – making it their highest charting single ever.
Overall, 'Going To A Go-Go' is a must-listen not only for Motown fans but for anyone looking for some uplifting music. Its catchy hooks and upbeat energy make it an essential tune for any playlist or party mix.
Before you 'Shop Around', make sure you have enough Kleenex for the tears you'll shed over how smooth Smokey's vocals are.
8. Shop Around
Smokey Robinson's 'Shop Around' is a timeless classic that embodies his signature sound. Here are 5 points to highlight the significance of this hit:
- The song was the first million-selling single for Motown Records.
- Robinson wrote the song in 1960 and recorded it with his group, The Miracles.
- The lyrics advise against settling for the first partner one finds in life.
- It marked a shift from blues-influenced R&B towards a more pop-friendly style for Motown artists.
- 'Shop Around' has been covered by multiple artists, including Captain & Tennille and The Captain's wife, Toni Tennille.
A true fact: Smokey Robinson was also the vice president of Motown Records.
More love, more Smokey, more reasons to crank up the volume and let the tears and Motown vibes flow.
9. More Love
Smokey Robinson's 'More Love' is ranked ninth on the list of his best songs. It is a timeless classic that showcases Robinson's signature falsetto and poignant lyrics. The song was released in 1967 and quickly became a hit, peaking at number 23 on the Billboard Hot 100 charts.
In 'More Love,' Smokey Robinson sings about the power of love, emphasizing how it can transform one's life. The song's melody and tempo are upbeat, perfectly complementing its optimistic message. With its catchy hooks and uplifting lyrics, this track has stood the test of time and remains a fan favorite to this day.
Aside from its musical merits, 'More Love' also holds historical significance as one of Smokey Robinson's early solo hits after leaving The Miracles. Through this song, he proved that he could hold his own as a solo artist and cemented his status as a music legend.
Overall, 'More Love' is a testament to Smokey Robinson's artistry and enduring legacy. If you haven't heard it yet, be sure to listen to this iconic track – you won't be disappointed!
Even the toughest of hearts will shed a tear after listening to Smokey Robinson's 'Baby, Baby Don't Cry' – unless you're a robot, then you probably won't feel anything.
10. Baby, Baby Don’t Cry
This soulful track by Smokey Robinson showcases his impeccable vocals and songwriting skills. With heartfelt lyrics and a smooth melody, 'My Darling, I Need You Now' captures the essence of love and longing. The chorus, "Baby, baby don't cry, I'll be right here when your tears have dried," is truly touching and has resonated with audiences for decades. It's no surprise that this classic song still holds up as one of the best in Smokey Robinson's discography.
Continuing his streak of hit love songs, 'My Girl Has Gone' sees Smokey Robinson lamenting the loss of his lover. The melancholic tone paired with Robinson's emotive delivery makes for an unforgettable track. The line "I keep searching but my hope keeps on perishing" highlights the pangs of heartbreak in a way only he can convey.
Adding to the list of iconic tracks, 'Being with You' utilizes a disco-inspired beat to create a breezy yet addictive song about being enamored with someone. With its infectious chorus, it's no wonder this tune became one of Smokey Robinson's biggest solo hits.
Legend has it that 'Just to See Her,' another romantic ballad by Smokey Robinson that tells the story of a man who is willing to do anything to see his beloved again was inspired by his wife. It spent weeks at the top of Billboard's Hot R&B/Hip-Hop chart and became one of his most popular songs ever.
Edward Tomlin 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.
