Few artists have left as indelible a mark on the world of music as Smokey Robinson. With a career spanning over six decades, Robinson isn’t just a singer or songwriter—he’s a living legend, a pioneer who helped define the sound of Motown and, by extension, the soul of an entire generation. His velvety voice, poetic lyricism, and unforgettable melodies have enchanted audiences worldwide, making him one of the most influential figures in the history of popular music. Whether serenading us with tales of love, heartache, or the joy of life itself, Smokey Robinson’s music transcends time, bringing a blend of elegance, emotion, and groove that continues to captivate listeners of all ages.
In this article, we’ll take you on a journey through the top 10 most popular Smokey Robinson songs of all time. From the anthems that defined the Motown era to the timeless ballads that still resonate today, these tracks aren’t just hits—they’re masterpieces. Each song is a testament to Robinson’s unparalleled artistry, and as you scroll through this list, you’ll discover why Smokey Robinson is, and will always be, one of the greatest voices in music history.
1. “The Tracks of My Tears” (1965)
Released in 1965, “The Tracks of My Tears” is one of Smokey Robinson’s most enduring classics. The song captures the quintessential Motown sound with its soulful melody and poignant lyrics. Written by Smokey Robinson, Pete Moore, and Marv Tarplin, the track is a masterclass in emotional storytelling. Robinson’s smooth, emotive vocals convey the pain of a man hiding his heartbreak behind a smile, creating a universal anthem for anyone who has ever had to put on a brave face. The song’s timeless appeal, combined with its impeccable craftsmanship, has made it one of the most beloved tracks of the Motown era. It has been covered by countless artists, but no version can quite match the original’s raw, aching beauty.
2. “Tears of a Clown” (1967)
“The Tears of a Clown,” released in 1967, showcases Smokey Robinson’s unparalleled ability to blend sorrow with a lively, upbeat sound. The song, co-written by Robinson, Stevie Wonder, and Hank Cosby, features a vibrant circus-like melody that contrasts sharply with its melancholy lyrics. Robinson’s voice dances over the infectious beat, telling the story of a man who hides his deep sadness behind a joyful facade—a theme that resonates with listeners on a deeply emotional level. The track became a major hit when it was re-released as a single in 1970, reaching number one on both the Billboard Hot 100 and the UK Singles Chart. Its compelling combination of joy and sadness has made it a timeless classic.
3. “Cruisin'” (1979)
Released in 1979, “Cruisin'” marked a successful shift into the late ’70s sound for Smokey Robinson. This smooth, sensual ballad is a perfect example of Robinson’s ability to adapt to the musical trends of the time while maintaining his signature style. “Cruisin'” is a slow-burn love song that invites the listener to sit back, relax, and enjoy the ride. The song’s laid-back groove, combined with Robinson’s silky vocals, makes it an enduring favorite for romantic evenings. The track reached the top 10 on the Billboard Hot 100 and remains one of Robinson’s most beloved solo hits, proving that his appeal transcended the Motown era into the realm of timeless music.
4. “Ooo Baby Baby” (1965)
“Ooo Baby Baby,” released in 1965, is a soulful ballad that showcases Smokey Robinson’s gift for heartfelt, tender love songs. The song’s simple yet powerful lyrics, combined with Robinson’s smooth falsetto, create an atmosphere of pure, unfiltered emotion. Co-written by Robinson and fellow Miracles member Pete Moore, “Ooo Baby Baby” became one of the group’s signature songs and a staple of their live performances. The track’s lush orchestration and Robinson’s flawless vocal delivery make it a quintessential example of the Motown sound. It has been covered by numerous artists over the years, but the original version remains the definitive take, capturing the essence of romantic longing like few other songs can.
5. “I Second That Emotion” (1967)
Released in 1967, “I Second That Emotion” is a playful, upbeat track that became an instant hit for Smokey Robinson and The Miracles. The song’s infectious rhythm and clever wordplay—centering around the phrase “I second that emotion”—make it a standout in Robinson’s extensive catalog. Written by Robinson and Al Cleveland, the track features a catchy chorus that quickly became a fan favorite. The song’s success extended beyond the U.S., becoming a hit in the UK as well, and it remains a staple of Robinson’s performances. Its lively tempo and upbeat message of mutual affection have made it a timeless favorite, both for longtime fans and new listeners alike.
6. “Being with You” (1981)
“Being with You,” released in 1981, is one of Smokey Robinson’s most successful solo hits. The song marked a triumphant return to the top of the charts for Robinson, reaching number two on the Billboard Hot 100 and number one on the R&B charts. A smooth, mid-tempo love song, “Being with You” showcases Robinson’s ability to craft melodic, radio-friendly hits while still maintaining the emotional depth that characterizes his best work. The track’s catchy chorus and Robinson’s soulful delivery made it a favorite among fans and a staple of early ’80s pop radio. Its universal theme of love and devotion continues to resonate with listeners, making it a standout in Robinson’s solo career.
7. “Shop Around” (1960)
“Shop Around,” released in 1960, was Smokey Robinson and The Miracles’ first major hit and a landmark in the history of Motown Records. Written by Robinson and Motown founder Berry Gordy, the song was the label’s first million-selling single and helped establish Motown as a dominant force in the music industry. The song’s catchy melody and Robinson’s smooth vocals were a winning combination, making “Shop Around” an instant favorite among fans. The track’s playful lyrics, advising a young man to “shop around” before settling down, struck a chord with listeners and set the stage for Robinson’s future success. Its historical significance and infectious rhythm ensure its place as a classic in Smokey Robinson’s catalog.
8. “You’ve Really Got a Hold on Me” (1962)
“You’ve Really Got a Hold on Me,” released in 1962, is one of Smokey Robinson’s most iconic songs. The track exemplifies the soulful, heart-wrenching ballads that Robinson became known for, with its haunting melody and lyrics that speak to the complexities of love. Written by Robinson himself, the song was inspired by Sam Cooke’s “Bring It On Home to Me” and became one of The Miracles’ biggest hits. The track’s emotional depth, combined with Robinson’s expressive vocals, made it an instant classic. “You’ve Really Got a Hold on Me” has been covered by numerous artists, including The Beatles, but the original remains the definitive version, capturing the raw emotion of a love that is both irresistible and painful.
9. “Baby, Baby Don’t Cry” (1968)
Released in 1968, “Baby, Baby Don’t Cry” is a powerful ballad that showcases Smokey Robinson’s ability to convey deep emotion through his music. The song was a major hit for Smokey Robinson and The Miracles, reaching the top 10 on the Billboard Hot 100. With its lush orchestration and Robinson’s tender vocal delivery, “Baby, Baby Don’t Cry” is a quintessential Motown ballad. The track’s lyrics, which offer comfort and reassurance to a heartbroken lover, resonate with anyone who has ever experienced the pain of lost love. The song’s soaring melody and emotional intensity make it a standout in Robinson’s catalog, and it remains a favorite among fans of classic soul music.
10. “Just to See Her” (1987)
“Just to See Her,” released in 1987, is one of Smokey Robinson’s later hits and a testament to his enduring appeal. The song earned Robinson a Grammy Award for Best Male R&B Vocal Performance and became a top 10 hit on the Billboard Hot 100. A smooth, romantic ballad, “Just to See Her” features Robinson’s signature silky vocals and a melody that is both catchy and heartfelt. The song’s lyrics, which express the joy and longing of seeing a loved one after a long absence, resonate deeply with listeners. “Just to See Her” is a perfect example of Robinson’s ability to craft timeless love songs that continue to captivate audiences, even decades into his career.
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.
