Smokey Robinson is one of the most iconic and influential figures in the history of Motown and soul music. As a singer, songwriter, and producer, he has been a force in the music industry for over six decades. Robinson’s smooth vocals and insightful lyrics have captivated audiences around the world and have made him a beloved figure in the genre.
In this article, we will explore the top 10 best Smokey Robinson songs of all time. We will take a journey through his extensive discography and highlight the songs that have made the biggest impact on his career and the music industry as a whole. From the early hits with The Miracles to his successful solo career, we will showcase the songs that have become classics in their own right. Smokey Robinson’s music has touched the lives of millions of people, and his legacy as a songwriter and performer continues to endure. So sit back, relax, and enjoy the ride as we celebrate the life and career of one of the greatest Motown and soul musicians of all time through the top 10 best Smokey Robinson songs of all time.
1. “Being With You”
With soulful vocals and a signature falsetto, Smokey Robinson's hit song “Being With You” takes us on a romantic journey. Its smooth melody and catchy lyrics create a nostalgia that transcends time. The song ranked #1 on the Adult Contemporary chart in 1981 and became one of Robinson’s greatest hits worldwide.
Robinson holds up the purity of love as he sings about cherishing the moments spent with his lover. The song was written by Robinson himself, and he enlisted the help of co-writer John Bettis to create a sound that echoed the simplicity of old-school love songs. The lyrics are honest and heartfelt, resonating with listeners who find solace in the beauty of romance.
Interestingly, despite its success, “Being With You” is different from many of Robinson’s previous works that showcased his prowess within the Motown genre. This track instead features elements borrowed from R&B, making it both unique and memorable.
In an interview with Billboard, Smokey Robinson mentioned how much he loved performing “Being With You,” stating that it was one of his personal favorites throughout his entire career.
Smokey's voice is like a roller coaster – it takes you through the agony and the ecstasy, and leaves you wanting more.
2. “The Agony And The Ecstasy”
This entry on the list showcases Smokey Robinson's ability to blend emotions in his music. The title refers to the contrasting feelings of pain and pleasure that come with romantic relationships. Robinson brings honesty to the lyrics, singing about both the highs and lows of love in a way that still resonates with audiences today. The melody is slow and sultry, emphasizing the bittersweet tone of the song.
Continuing from the previous paragraph, "The Agony And The Ecstasy" was included in Smokey Robinson's 1975 album "A Quiet Storm". The ballad is often considered one of his signature songs, featuring his smooth vocal skills and masterful lyricism. It received critical acclaim upon its release and has since become a classic within Motown's catalog. Interestingly, despite being popular at weddings for its romantic subject matter, Robinson has stated that he wrote it about his own marital struggles at the time.
Smokey Robinson's versatility as an artist is seen through this song's clever juxtaposition of elements while still being unapologetically emotional. "The Agony And The Ecstasy" takes listeners on a journey through all stages of romance by blending different sounds together – from soulful saxophones to electronic keyboard riffs. Robison also makes use of repetition to put emphasis on some lines like “you’ve got me laughing so hard I’m crying”. By doing so, he highlights how our emotions are often intertwined.
For those unfamiliar with Smokey Robinson, "The Agony And The Ecstasy" serves as an excellent window into his artistry. Its timeless sound perfectly encapsulates Robinson's ability to bring multiple themes together without losing focus or sacrificing quality. Fans and newcomers alike will find something special in this song by one of Motown's greatest performers. Aspiring singers can also learn a lot from analyzing Smokey Robinson's use of repetition and emotion in "The Agony And The Ecstasy".
Listening to Baby Come Close
is like being wrapped in a warm, soulful hug…from a slightly clingy Smokey Robinson.
3. “Baby Come Close”
This track from Smokey Robinson is a sweet ballad that exhibits his soulful voice. “Baby Come Close” is considered one of the most beautiful love songs of all time and an example of Smokey Robinson's excellent songwriting abilities. It tells the story of a man who wants to be closer to the woman he loves, expressing his desire in a smooth and romantic manner. The melody matches the lyrics’ beauty, making it an unforgettable love song.
Robinson's vocals are captivating as usual, highlighting his ability to convey emotion through music. A gentle guitar permeates throughout the track, giving off a mellow feel that beautifully complements Smokey’s voice. “Baby Come Close” is simply stunning and showcases how far ahead of his time Robinson was with his music.
Pro Tip: To fully appreciate this masterpiece, listen to it while relaxing on a lazy afternoon or during a nice sunset walk.
Listening to 'Just To See Her' is like watching a romantic comedy, except you actually care about the characters.
4. “Just To See Her”
This hit song by legendary musician Smokey Robinson, captures the story of a man who would go to any lengths just to catch a glimpse of his lost love. The smooth melody laced with impeccable lyrics makes it one of Robinson's best works. The track won him his first Grammy Award for Best Male R&B Vocal Performance in 1987.
Robinson effortlessly delivers an emotional and heartfelt performance that leaves listeners reminiscing on past loves and heartbreaks. The timeless classic continues to be loved by millions worldwide.
Interestingly, Smokey Robinson wrote “Just To See Her” as a tribute to fellow Motown artist Marvin Gaye, whom he missed dearly after his untimely death.
(Source: Grammy.com)
Listening to 'Cruisin' is like driving down memory lane in a convertible with Smokey Robinson at the wheel.
5. ” Cruisin’ ”
This entry showcases one of the top tracks by Smokey Robinson – a true classic, which is still heavily featured on timeless soul compilations today. The vocals are beautifully understated but they leave an indelible mark on your soul with the haunting melody and memorable lyrics. It's no wonder this masterpiece has stood the test of time, with its universal themes of loyalty and devotion that listeners can relate to across cultures and generations.
In "The King of Motown" Smokey Robinson's illustrious career spanning over six decades, tracks like "Cruisin'" have cemented his reputation as a legendary songwriter with a talent for crafting hits that speak to the hearts of millions. This particular song pairs hauntingly beautiful keys, a smooth bassline, and poignant lyrics that take listeners on an unforgettable journey through love's ups and downs.
And while "Cruisin'" might be one of Robinson's most iconic songs, there are many more gems to discover in his discography such as "Tears Of A Clown" or "Being With You" – each highlighting different aspects of his musical prowess. Fans looking to fully appreciate his artistry should also check out collaborations with groups like The Miracles and vocal legends like Aretha Franklin.
For those who appreciate soulful music with relatable themes, Smokey Robinson is a must-have addition to any playlist!
Listening to Smokey Robinson's 'Will You Love Me Tomorrow?' is like experiencing a beautiful sunset, bittersweet and awe-inspiring all at once.
6. “Will You Love Me Tomorrow?”
This timeless classic, originally performed by The Shirelles, became a hit again when Smokey Robinson covered it in 1973. Its enchanting melody and deep lyrics make “Will You Love Me Tomorrow?” one of the best love songs of all time. Smokey Robinson’s silky voice is a perfect complement to the song's romantic theme, evoking feelings of joy and tenderness in listeners worldwide.
Among the standout lines are: "Tonight with words unspoken / You said that I'm the only one". Robinson's cover version was a huge success and remains popular years later. It conveyed an idyllic message that love should be treated with care and nurtured, so it can last forever.
Smokey Robinson has always been known for his silky-smooth vocal style and strong showmanship. His impeccably composed ballads have earned him iconic status in music history. When he sings “Will You Love Me Tomorrow?”, one can easily get lost in the beauty of his voice. In a world where trends come and go, Smokey's timeless music remains relevant today.
The song became such a big hit due to its message which resonated with people then, as much as it does now; That there is no guarantee for tomorrow but love still holds true today. Moreover, "Will You Love Me Tomorrow?" continues to inspire artists from different generations who are inspired by its simplicity and sincerity of expression.
Did you know that Carole King co-wrote "Will You Love Me Tomorrow" along with her then-husband Gerry Goffin? The song was released in 1960 by their group The Shirelles. Smokey Robinson’s soulful rendition brought this classic tune back into mainstream popularity – perhaps even surpassing the initial release in fame.
Get ready to be swept away by the soulful crooning of Smokey Robinson as he takes us from daylight to darkness in this heartwarming ballad.
7. “Daylight & Darkness”
Smokey Robinson's hit song, which appears at number seven, epitomizes the artist's gift of crafting smooth, groove-laden tracks. A classic soul composition with a tinge of jazz, this tune features Smokey pouring his heart out about a love gone awry. The saxophone riff in the opening bars is intoxicating and further complements Smokey's silky voice. In terms of instrumentation, the bass and drums are perfect for setting the rhythm while the keys add depth to the overall sound. It's no surprise that this time-honored tune still has many fans today.
Interestingly, “Daylight & Darkness” was written by Smokey Robinson himself, with additional input from fellow Motown musician Al Cleveland. The song was released in 1974 and it appeared on Smokey's album ‘Pure Smokey’. This emotional ballad is one of many examples of the brilliance that made Smokey Robinson an icon in the music industry.
Listening to 'One Heartbeat' feels like experiencing a heart attack, but in a good way.
8. “One Heartbeat”
This track by Smokey Robinson is a soulful classic that showcases his signature vocals and songwriting prowess. “One Heartbeat” is all about the feeling of falling in love and getting lost in the thrill of it. The song was released in 1987 and became one of Robinson’s biggest hits. Its infectious melody and upbeat tempo make it a perfect feel-good song to dance along to.
The lyrics describe the electrifying feeling of two hearts beating together as one, with lines like “I can feel your heart beat next to mine / And it sounds like music to my ears.” The catchy chorus is an invitation for the listener to join in and sing along, “One heartbeat / Can you feel it? / One heartbeat / Can you hear it?”
What sets this track apart from some of Robinson’s other hits is its fusion of contemporary R&B and pop elements, which were popular during the late 80s. The production is slick and polished, featuring electronic drum machines, horn stabs, and synth hooks that give the track a modern edge.
If you’re looking for a romantic love song that encapsulates the joy and magic of falling in love, “One Heartbeat” is definitely worth listening to. Its upbeat tempo makes it an ideal choice for any occasion where you want to lift up your spirits or simply let loose on the dance floor.
If you want to make your Valentine's Day playlist a little more sultry, add 'I Want You 'Round' by Smokey Robinson – it's like musical foreplay."
9. “I Want You ‘Round”
Expressing his desire for physical and emotional closeness, Smokey Robinson's "I Want You ‘Round" captivates the listener with its intimate lyrics and soulful melody. The song was released in 1979 as the lead single from the album 'Where There's Smoke'.
Robinson's smooth and sensual vocals combined with the hypnotic beat create a romantic atmosphere that evokes feelings of love and longing. The lyrics, "I want you ‘round to love me / when my heart needs company" express the need for companionship and show vulnerability.
The track features a dynamic instrumental performance with compelling guitar riffs and striking percussion that add depth to each verse. It peaked at number 14 on Billboard's R&B chart at the time of its release.
Fun fact: Robinson co-wrote this song with his former Miracles bandmate Marvin Tarplin.
Pro Tip: With its enchanting melody and relatable message, "I Want You ‘Round” is a great choice for serenading your significant other or setting an intimate mood.
Let Smokey Robinson lull you into a 'Quiet Storm' of soulful melodies, just be sure to bring your own tissue box for the tears.
10. “Quiet Storm”
A standout amongst the greatest hits of Smokey Robinson is a soulful tune called "Quiet Storm". This song became popular in the late 70s and generated its own genre of music. It was one of his most successful tracks from his solo career and demonstrated his poetic lyrics and smooth voice. The melody starts generously, creating an expectation that something phenomenal is about to unfold, followed by Robinson's verse that features an excellent harmony. The song has stood the test of time and remains a fan favorite to this day.
In addition to its popularity as a hit single, Quiet Storm also spurred an entire radio format known as 'quiet storm', which combined chill ballads and soul songs with mellow instrumentals hosted softly spoken on-air personalities to create an overall relaxing effect.
Smokey Robinson not only had a massive influence on Motown’s early sound in the 1960s but also ruled on the charts throughout the rest of the decade. He has written some big hits like "My Girl", "Tears Of A Clown", and "The Tracks Of My Tears." His contribution to the industry received several accolades at different award ceremonies over time.
Robinson's iconic voice may have been stilled from being consistent on airwaves these days; however, there’s no denying his songs' significance as they continue captivating audiences worldwide.
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.
