Smokey Robinson, born William Robinson Jr. on February 19, 1940, is an iconic American singer, songwriter, and record producer who played a pivotal role in shaping the Motown sound. As a founding member of The Miracles, Robinson became not only a dynamic performer but also a prolific songwriter, contributing to the success of Motown Records in the 1960s.
Known for his smooth tenor voice and poignant songwriting, Smokey Robinson became a driving force behind Motown hits such as “Shop Around,” “Tracks of My Tears,” and “I Second That Emotion.” His ability to blend soulful melodies with heartfelt lyrics set a standard for the R&B genre.
Beyond his contributions as a performer, Robinson served as a vice president at Motown, demonstrating his influence in the business side of the industry. His solo career, which took off in the 1970s, brought forth hits like “Cruisin'” and “Being with You,” showcasing his versatility across decades.
Inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, Robinson’s impact extends beyond music. His legacy reflects a profound influence on the Motown legacy and the broader landscape of soul and R&B, earning him accolades as one of the greatest songwriters and performers in American music history.
1. The Tears of a Clown
“The Tears of a Clown” is a classic soul song by Smokey Robinson & the Miracles, released in 1967. Co-written by Smokey Robinson, Stevie Wonder, and Hank Cosby, the song became one of the group’s most successful and enduring hits.
The track is characterized by its upbeat and catchy melody, but its lyrics tell a more somber story. The song describes a person who hides behind a smiling and humorous exterior, using laughter as a mask to conceal their true feelings of heartbreak and loneliness. The juxtaposition of the lively music with the poignant lyrics creates a compelling emotional depth.
Stevie Wonder contributed significantly to the song, including the iconic harmonica riff that opens the track. The combination of Robinson’s soulful vocals and Wonder’s musical contributions resulted in a unique and memorable sound.
“The Tears of a Clown” became a massive hit for Smokey Robinson & the Miracles, reaching the top of the charts in the United States and the United Kingdom. It remains one of their signature songs and a classic in the Motown and soul music canon. The song’s enduring popularity is a testament to its timeless appeal and the collaborative genius of Smokey Robinson and Stevie Wonder.
2. Tracks Of My Tears
“Tracks of My Tears” is a timeless soul classic co-written by Smokey Robinson, Warren “Pete” Moore, and Marv Tarplin. Initially recorded by Smokey Robinson and The Miracles, the song was released in 1965 as a single and later included on the album “Going to a Go-Go.”
The brilliance of “Tracks of My Tears” lies in its poignant lyrics and Robinson’s emotive delivery. The song explores the theme of heartbreak and hiding one’s true emotions behind a façade of smiles. The metaphor of crying tracks masked by a happy face became an iconic representation of the emotional complexity within love.
Musically, the song features a distinctive, elegant melody, and the Miracles’ harmonies, combined with the subtle orchestration, create a lush and sophisticated sound. Marv Tarplin’s guitar work adds a distinctive touch, contributing to the song’s enduring appeal.
“Tracks of My Tears” has stood the test of time, becoming one of Smokey Robinson’s signature songs. It has been covered by numerous artists across genres, attesting to its universal themes and musical brilliance. Recognized as a classic in the Motown catalog, the song showcases Smokey Robinson’s songwriting prowess and his enduring impact on the landscape of soul and R&B music.
3. You’ve Really Got A Hold On Me
“You’ve Really Got a Hold on Me” is a classic soul song written by Smokey Robinson. Originally recorded by The Miracles, featuring Robinson as the lead vocalist, the song was released in 1962. It has since become one of the signature tracks for both The Miracles and Smokey Robinson.
The song is known for its emotionally charged lyrics and Robinson’s soulful delivery. The narrator expresses vulnerability and the powerful impact of romantic love, describing how the person they love has a strong and enduring hold on them.
“You’ve Really Got a Hold on Me” features a distinctive and memorable bass line, adding to the song’s overall appeal. The harmonies and arrangement showcase the influence of doo-wop and gospel, characteristic of the Motown sound.
The Beatles also covered the song, and their version appeared on their second album, “With The Beatles,” in 1963. The Beatles’ rendition helped introduce the song to a wider audience.
“You’ve Really Got a Hold on Me” has endured as a classic in the soul and R&B genres, with numerous artists covering it over the years. Its timeless quality lies in the emotional depth of the lyrics, the soul-stirring vocal performance by Smokey Robinson, and the enduring impact it has had on the landscape of popular music.
4. Ooo Baby Baby
“Ooo Baby Baby” is a classic soul ballad written by Smokey Robinson and Pete Moore. Released in 1965 by Smokey Robinson and The Miracles, the song has become one of the most enduring and beloved tracks in the Motown repertoire.
The lyrics of “Ooo Baby Baby” express the pain and heartache of lost love. The soulful and tender delivery by Smokey Robinson conveys a sense of vulnerability and emotional depth. The repetition of the evocative refrain “Ooo baby baby” contributes to the song’s intimacy and emotional impact.
Musically, the song features a lush and melodic arrangement, with Robinson’s smooth tenor vocals complemented by the harmonies of The Miracles. Marv Tarplin’s distinctive guitar work adds a soulful touch to the overall sound.
“Ooo Baby Baby” has left an indelible mark on the history of soul music and has been covered by numerous artists across genres. Its enduring popularity attests to the universal themes of love and heartbreak that resonate with listeners. Smokey Robinson’s artistry shines through in this timeless ballad, making it a standout in the Motown catalog.
5. I Second That Emotion
“I Second That Emotion” is a classic soul song performed by Smokey Robinson & The Miracles. Released in 1967, the song was co-written by Robinson and Al Cleveland. It became one of the group’s most successful hits, showcasing their trademark harmonies and Robinson’s distinctive falsetto.
The title of the song is a play on words, with “emotion” being pronounced to sound like “ocean” in the chorus. The lyrics express a man’s reassurance and agreement with his partner’s feelings, promising to support and understand her emotions.
“I Second That Emotion” features a catchy and upbeat melody, characteristic of the Motown sound. The song’s arrangement includes the use of horns and strings, adding to its overall appeal. Smokey Robinson’s vocal delivery, along with the harmonies of The Miracles, contributes to the song’s timeless and memorable quality.
The song achieved commercial success, reaching high positions on the charts in both the United States and the United Kingdom. Over the years, “I Second That Emotion” has been covered by various artists and remains a staple in the Motown and soul music repertoire. Its enduring popularity attests to its status as a classic within the rich legacy of Smokey Robinson and The Miracles.
6. Mickey’s Monkey
“Mickey’s Monkey” is a classic song by Smokey Robinson and The Miracles. Originally released in 1963, the song is a lively and upbeat track that became one of The Miracles’ popular hits.
The lyrics tell the playful story of Mickey, a guy who’s dancing like “Mickey’s monkey” and having a great time on the dance floor. The term “monkey” in this context refers to a dance or dance style rather than a literal monkey.
The infectious rhythm, catchy melody, and energetic performance by Smokey Robinson and The Miracles contributed to the song’s success. “Mickey’s Monkey” showcases the group’s ability to create danceable and entertaining soul music.
Over the years, the song has been covered by various artists, and its lively spirit has made it a favorite for audiences who enjoy classic soul and Motown music. “Mickey’s Monkey” remains a fun and memorable part of Smokey Robinson and The Miracles’ catalog, reflecting the vibrant sound of the 1960s Motown era.
7. Going To A Go-Go
“Going to a Go-Go” is an energetic and infectious soul song by Smokey Robinson and The Miracles. Released in 1965, the song became a major hit and is considered one of the signature tracks in Motown’s extensive catalog.
The lyrics of “Going to a Go-Go” celebrate the joy and excitement of going out to a popular music venue or dance club. The upbeat and danceable rhythm, combined with Smokey Robinson’s charismatic vocals, creates a lively and engaging atmosphere. The horn section and background vocals add to the song’s dynamic and celebratory feel.
The title phrase “a go-go” refers to the go-go clubs and discotheques that were popular in the 1960s. The song’s success was not only due to its catchy melody and infectious groove but also to its ability to capture the spirit of the social scene at the time.
“Going to a Go-Go” has endured as a classic in the Motown and soul genres. It has been covered by various artists and is frequently featured in compilations and retrospectives of Motown’s golden era. The song remains a testament to Smokey Robinson’s songwriting talent and The Miracles’ ability to create timeless and danceable soul music.
8. Shop Around
“Shop Around” is a classic soul song recorded by The Miracles, featuring Smokey Robinson as the lead vocalist. Released in 1960, the song became Motown’s first million-selling hit and established The Miracles as a prominent group in the early Motown era.
Written by Smokey Robinson and Berry Gordy, the song’s lyrics offer advice about love and relationships. The central theme is the importance of shopping around and not settling for the first opportunity, particularly when it comes to matters of the heart.
“Shop Around” is notable for its catchy melody, Robinson’s smooth vocals, and the distinctive Motown sound with its combination of rhythm and blues, pop, and gospel influences. The song’s success marked the beginning of Motown’s ascent in the music industry.
The Miracles’ “Shop Around” topped the Billboard R&B singles chart and crossed over to the pop charts, reaching a wide audience. Its impact on the music landscape and its role in establishing Motown as a major force in the industry make it a significant and enduring classic in the history of soul and R&B music.
9. More Love
“More Love” is a soulful ballad written and performed by Smokey Robinson and The Miracles. Released in 1967, the song became one of the group’s notable hits and is celebrated for its romantic and emotive qualities.
The lyrics of “More Love” express a deep and sincere desire for an abundance of love. Smokey Robinson’s smooth and tender vocals, combined with the heartfelt orchestration, create a poignant atmosphere. The song’s simplicity and elegance contribute to its timeless appeal.
“More Love” showcases Robinson’s talent for crafting soulful ballads that resonate with universal themes of love and longing. The Miracles’ harmonies provide a lush backdrop to Robinson’s lead vocals, enhancing the emotional depth of the song.
Over the years, “More Love” has been covered by various artists, attesting to its enduring popularity. The song’s impact extends beyond its initial release, solidifying its place as a classic in the Motown and soul music repertoire. With its timeless sentiment and musical grace, “More Love” remains a testament to Smokey Robinson’s enduring influence in the world of soul and R&B.
10. Baby, Baby Don’t Cry
“Baby, Baby Don’t Cry” is a soulful ballad by The Miracles, featuring Smokey Robinson as the lead vocalist. The song was released in 1968 and written by Smokey Robinson, Al Cleveland, and Terry Johnson. It showcases the signature harmonies of The Miracles and Robinson’s emotive vocal delivery.
The lyrics of “Baby, Baby Don’t Cry” convey a message of reassurance and encouragement during difficult times in a relationship. The narrator expresses a desire to comfort and uplift their partner, urging them not to cry and promising to be there through thick and thin.
The musical arrangement of the song features a lush orchestration, typical of the Motown sound. Robinson’s heartfelt vocals, combined with the soulful melody, create a poignant and emotionally resonant atmosphere.
While “Baby, Baby Don’t Cry” may not be as widely celebrated as some of The Miracles’ earlier hits, it remains a testament to their enduring musical talent and the ability to convey deep emotions through their performances. The song is part of the rich legacy of Motown and contributes to the broader landscape of soul and R&B music.