Smokey Robinson is an American singer, songwriter, record producer, and former record executive. He is best known for his work as the founder and frontman of the legendary Motown group The Miracles and for his solo career. Robinson is one of the most influential figures in R&B and soul music history, known for his smooth tenor vocals and poetic lyrics.
As the lead singer of The Miracles, Robinson was responsible for hits like “Shop Around,” “You’ve Really Got a Hold on Me,” and “The Tracks of My Tears.” His solo career also produced classics such as “Cruisin’,” “Being with You,” and “Just to See Her.”
Robinson’s songwriting talents were also highly regarded, penning hits for other Motown artists like The Temptations (“My Girl”) and Marvin Gaye (“Ain’t That Peculiar”).
Beyond his musical contributions, Robinson was instrumental in shaping the Motown sound and business model, serving as a vice president of the company and helping to establish its legendary status in the music industry.
Smokey Robinson’s impact on music is immense, and he remains a beloved and respected figure in the world of R&B and soul.
1. Being With You
“Being With You” is a soulful and romantic song recorded by Smokey Robinson. Released in 1981, it became one of Robinson’s signature solo hits. The song’s lyrics express the joy and contentment of being in love, and Robinson’s smooth vocals add to its heartfelt sentiment. “Being With You” was a commercial success, topping the R&B charts and reaching the top of the pop charts in the United States and the United Kingdom. The song’s success helped solidify Smokey Robinson’s status as a solo artist and remains a classic of 1980s R&B music.
2. The Agony And The Ecstasy
“The Agony and the Ecstasy” is a song by Smokey Robinson, released in 1975. It’s a soulful ballad that explores the complexities of love and relationships. In the song, Robinson sings about the highs and lows of being in love, comparing it to both agony and ecstasy. The lyrics delve into the emotional rollercoaster that comes with loving someone deeply, touching on themes of passion, heartache, and devotion. “The Agony and the Ecstasy” showcases Robinson’s emotive vocals and his ability to convey deep emotion through his music. The song was well-received by critics and fans alike, becoming a standout track in Robinson’s discography.
3. Baby Come Close
“Baby Come Close” is a soulful ballad by Smokey Robinson, released in 1973 as a single from his album “Smokey.” The song showcases Robinson’s smooth vocals and heartfelt delivery, as he expresses his longing for a lover to come closer and share their love. With its lush orchestration and romantic lyrics, “Baby Come Close” captures the essence of classic soul music, evoking feelings of passion and intimacy. The song’s melodic hooks and soul-stirring melodies have made it a timeless favorite among fans of Smokey Robinson and soul music alike, earning its place as a cherished classic in Robinson’s discography.
4. Just To See Her
“Just to See Her” is a song recorded by Smokey Robinson, released in 1987. It’s a heartfelt ballad that expresses the longing and desire to be reunited with a lost love. In the song, Robinson sings about the pain of being apart from someone he loves and the lengths he would go to just to see her again. The lyrics convey a sense of vulnerability and yearning, set to a melodic and soulful tune. “Just to See Her” was a commercial success, reaching the top of the Billboard Hot 100 chart and winning a Grammy Award for Best Male R&B Vocal Performance. The song remains one of Smokey Robinson’s most popular and enduring hits.
5. Cruisin
“Cruisin'” is a smooth and romantic R&B song recorded by Smokey Robinson. Released in 1979, it became one of Robinson’s signature solo hits. The song’s lyrics evoke a sense of nostalgia and longing, as Robinson sings about cruising around with a loved one and enjoying each other’s company. “Cruisin'” is known for its laid-back groove and Robinson’s soulful vocals, which perfectly capture the song’s romantic sentiment. The song was a commercial success, reaching the top of the Billboard R&B chart and becoming a classic of Robinson’s solo career. “Cruisin'” has since been covered by many artists and remains a favorite among fans of smooth R&B music.
6. Will You Love Me Tomorrow?
“Will You Love Me Tomorrow?” is a song written by Gerry Goffin and Carole King. It was originally recorded by The Shirelles in 1960 and became a number one hit on the Billboard Hot 100. The song is notable for its poignant lyrics, which express the uncertainty and vulnerability of young love. The narrator wonders if their partner’s feelings will remain true over time, or if they will eventually move on. The song’s melancholic melody and heartfelt vocals have made it a timeless classic, and it has been covered by many artists over the years, including Smokey Robinson, who released his version in 1973. Robinson’s rendition of “Will You Love Me Tomorrow?” showcases his soulful vocals and emotional depth, adding a new dimension to the song’s already poignant lyrics.
7. Daylight & Darkness
“Daylight & Darkness” is a song by Smokey Robinson from his 1978 album “Smokin'”. The song is a soulful ballad that explores the contrast between light and darkness as metaphors for the ups and downs of life and love. Robinson’s smooth vocals and emotive delivery bring out the emotional depth of the lyrics, which reflect on the challenges and joys of relationships. “Daylight & Darkness” showcases Robinson’s skill as a songwriter and performer, with its poignant lyrics and soulful melody. The song received positive reviews from critics and remains a fan favorite in Robinson’s catalog.
8. One Heartbeat
“One Heartbeat” is a song by Smokey Robinson, released in 1987 as the title track from his album of the same name. The song is an upbeat R&B track that celebrates the power of love to bring people together. In the song, Robinson sings about the joy of finding that special someone and the feeling of being in sync with them, as if their hearts beat as one. “One Heartbeat” features a catchy melody and Robinson’s trademark smooth vocals, making it a standout track on the album. The song was a commercial success, reaching the top of the Billboard R&B chart and becoming one of Robinson’s signature hits.
9. I Want You Round
“I Want You ‘Round” is a seductive and soulful track by Smokey Robinson, released in 1975 as part of his album “A Quiet Storm.” The song is characterized by its smooth groove, lush instrumentation, and Robinson’s velvety vocals. Lyrically, “I Want You ‘Round” expresses desire and longing, with Robinson crooning about the irresistible pull of romantic attraction. The song’s sensual melodies and intimate atmosphere make it a standout track on the album, showcasing Robinson’s ability to evoke emotion and captivate listeners with his soulful delivery. “I Want You ‘Round” remains a classic example of Robinson’s mastery of the R&B genre and his talent for crafting timeless love songs.
10. Quiet Storm
“Quiet Storm” is a genre of R&B music that emerged in the late 1970s and early 1980s. It is characterized by its mellow, laid-back sound and smooth, soulful vocals. The term “Quiet Storm” was first coined by Melvin Lindsey, a radio DJ at WHUR-FM in Washington, D.C., who used it to describe the late-night music he played on his show.
The Quiet Storm genre is often associated with artists like Smokey Robinson, Luther Vandross, Anita Baker, and Sade, whose music embodies the sensual and intimate mood of the genre. Quiet Storm songs typically feature lush, atmospheric production, with emphasis on mood and emotion rather than upbeat tempos.
The Quiet Storm format became popular on radio stations across the United States, and its influence can still be heard in contemporary R&B and neo-soul music.
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.
