Smokey Robinson is an American singer, songwriter, record producer, and former frontman of the legendary Motown group, The Miracles. He is known for his smooth tenor voice and his ability to write and produce soulful hits that have captivated audiences for generations.
Robinson’s songwriting is often characterized by his poignant lyrics and ability to capture the emotions of love and heartbreak. He has written and produced numerous hits for The Miracles, as well as for other Motown artists such as The Temptations and Mary Wells. Some of his most famous compositions include “My Girl,” “The Tracks of My Tears,” and “I Second That Emotion.”
As a solo artist, Robinson continued to produce hit after hit, including “Being with You” and “Cruisin’.” He has won numerous awards throughout his career, including multiple Grammys and the prestigious Kennedy Center Honors.
Robinson’s impact on the music industry cannot be overstated, and his influence can be heard in the works of countless artists who have followed in his footsteps. He has earned a reputation as one of the greatest songwriters and performers of his generation, and his contributions to the world of soul and R&B music will undoubtedly continue to be celebrated for years to come.
1. The Tracks of My Tears
“The Tracks of My Tears” is a classic soul ballad by Smokey Robinson & The Miracles. It features Robinson’s emotive vocals over a lush arrangement of strings and horns. The lyrics tell the story of a man hiding his sadness and heartbreak behind a mask of happiness, and the melody perfectly captures the bittersweet nature of the song’s theme. With its poignant lyrics and Robinson’s soulful delivery, “The Tracks of My Tears” became one of the most beloved and enduring hits of the Motown era, and has since been covered by countless artists in various genres.
2. Shop Around
“Shop Around” is a classic Motown hit by Smokey Robinson and The Miracles, released in 1960. The song features a catchy and upbeat melody, with Robinson’s smooth vocals and the Miracles’ harmonies bringing the track to life. Its lyrics offer advice on love and relationships, with the refrain “You better shop around” urging listeners to explore their options and not settle for less. “Shop Around” is a timeless classic that helped to define the Motown sound and remains a beloved favorite of fans and music lovers alike. Its influence on popular music is immeasurable and it stands as a testament to Smokey Robinson’s enduring legacy as a singer, songwriter, and producer.
3. My Girl
“My Girl” is a classic soul song by Smokey Robinson and The Miracles, released in 1965. The song features a memorable bassline and Smokey Robinson’s smooth vocals, which express the joy and affection of being in love. The lyrics celebrate the beauty and charm of the singer’s girlfriend, and convey a sense of pride and commitment to their relationship. “My Girl” became a massive hit for The Miracles, topping the charts and becoming one of the most beloved songs of the Motown era. The song remains a timeless classic and a testament to Smokey Robinson’s talent as a songwriter and performer.
4. Tears of a Clown
“Tears of a Clown” is a poignant and soulful hit by Smokey Robinson and The Miracles, released in 1970. The song features a catchy and upbeat melody, with Robinson’s smooth vocals and the Miracles’ harmonies masking the sadness and pain of the lyrics. Its lyrics speak of a clown who hides behind a smile, unable to show the world his true emotions. “Tears of a Clown” is a powerful reminder of the importance of emotional honesty and vulnerability, and Robinson’s masterful songwriting and performance make it one of the most memorable and impactful tracks in Motown history.
5. You Really Got a Hold on Me
“You Really Got a Hold on Me” is a classic R&B and soul song by Smokey Robinson and The Miracles, released in 1962. The song features Robinson’s signature silky-smooth vocals and memorable harmonies, accompanied by a catchy, upbeat melody. The song’s lyrics describe a love that has taken hold of the singer, leaving him powerless and completely consumed. “You Really Got a Hold on Me” has been covered by numerous artists over the years, including The Beatles, who included their version on their second album “With The Beatles” in 1963. The song has been widely recognized as one of the greatest R&B and soul tracks of all time and remains a beloved classic today.
6. Cruisin’
“Cruisin'” is a smooth and soulful R&B song by Smokey Robinson, released in 1979 as part of his album “Where There’s Smoke…”. The song features a laid-back groove and Smokey Robinson’s trademark falsetto vocals, which express the joy and contentment of being in love. The lyrics celebrate the simple pleasures of cruising with one’s partner, enjoying the moment and each other’s company. “Cruisin'” became a hit for Smokey Robinson, earning critical acclaim for its infectious melody and romantic lyrics. The song remains a fan favorite and a testament to Smokey Robinson’s enduring influence on the R&B genre.
7. Being with You
“Being with You” is a romantic and soulful ballad by Smokey Robinson, released in 1981. The song features Robinson’s smooth and emotive vocals, accompanied by a simple but effective melody that highlights the song’s intimacy and tenderness. Its lyrics speak of the joy and contentment of being in love, with the refrain “Being with you is easy, I don’t need to try” capturing the simplicity and ease of a loving relationship. “Being with You” is a timeless classic that showcases Robinson’s vocal and songwriting talents, and it remains a beloved favorite of fans and music lovers around the world.
8. Ooo Baby Baby
“Ooo Baby Baby” is a classic soul ballad by Smokey Robinson and The Miracles, released in 1965. The song features a beautiful melody and Smokey Robinson’s emotive vocals, which express the pain and heartbreak of a failed relationship. The lyrics convey a sense of regret and longing, as the singer reflects on the mistakes he made and the love he lost. “Ooo Baby Baby” became a fan favorite for The Miracles, showcasing their ability to convey complex emotions in their music and earning critical acclaim for its haunting melody and raw power. The song remains a timeless classic and a testament to Smokey Robinson’s enduring influence on the soul and R&B genres.
9. I Second That Emotion
“I Second That Emotion” is a classic Motown song by Smokey Robinson and the Miracles, released in 1967. The song features Robinson’s smooth vocals over a lively, upbeat rhythm, with a catchy melody that is instantly recognizable. The lyrics describe the narrator’s feelings of love and devotion, expressing the idea that his feelings are genuine and not just a passing fancy. The song’s title is a play on words, as “emotion” is used in place of “motion” to emphasize the emotional impact of the narrator’s feelings. With its infectious groove and memorable hook, “I Second That Emotion” has become a beloved classic of the Motown era and a testament to Robinson’s enduring talent as a songwriter and performer.
10. Just to See Her
“Just to See Her” is a soulful and emotive ballad by Smokey Robinson, released in 1987. The song features Robinson’s smooth and tender vocals, accompanied by a lush arrangement of strings and synthesizers that captures the song’s romantic and nostalgic mood. Its lyrics speak of the longing and desire to be reunited with a lost love, with the refrain “Just to see her, just to touch her, just to hold her in my arms again” expressing the depth of emotion and yearning. “Just to See Her” is a beautiful and timeless love song that showcases Robinson’s vocal and songwriting talents, and it remains a beloved classic of his discography.
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.
