Few artists have shaped the sound of soul and R&B like Smokey Robinson. As one of the key architects of the legendary Motown sound, Robinson’s velvety voice, poetic lyricism, and timeless melodies have left an indelible mark on music history. Whether fronting The Miracles or shining as a solo artist, Smokey Robinson’s ability to convey deep emotion through effortless vocal delivery has made him a beloved figure for generations of fans. His songs, often drenched in heartache, joy, and romance, speak directly to the soul, transporting listeners to moments of personal reflection and shared experience. From the aching beauty of “The Tracks of My Tears” to the infectious groove of “Cruisin’,” Smokey’s catalog is filled with unforgettable classics that continue to resonate. In this article, we’ll take a journey through the top 10 most popular Smokey Robinson songs of all time—tracks that have not only defined his illustrious career but have also become timeless anthems of love, longing, and the human experience. Whether you’re a lifelong fan or discovering these gems for the first time, these songs represent the very best of Smokey Robinson’s musical genius. Get ready to dive into the soulful sounds that made Smokey a legend!
1. “The Tracks of My Tears” (1965)
Released in 1965, “The Tracks of My Tears” stands as one of Smokey Robinson’s most cherished songs, performed alongside The Miracles. The song masterfully blends a sense of emotional vulnerability with timeless appeal, making it a classic in the Motown catalog. Co-written by Robinson, Pete Moore, and Marv Tarplin, the song captures the agony of heartbreak, masked by a brave, smiling facade—a sentiment that resonates deeply with listeners of all generations. The iconic guitar riff, crafted by Tarplin, introduces a melancholic yet beautiful ballad about love lost. Robinson’s soaring falsetto delivery only heightens the emotional depth, solidifying the track as one of Motown’s most powerful hits. With its raw honesty and poignant lyrics, “The Tracks of My Tears” is a soul music masterpiece that continues to be a touchstone for anyone who’s felt heartache beneath the surface. It remains a vital part of Smokey Robinson’s legendary catalog, a testament to his skill as both a songwriter and performer.
2. “Ooo Baby Baby” (1965)
“Ooo Baby Baby,” released in 1965, is a slow, tender ballad that highlights Smokey Robinson’s unmatched ability to weave emotional depth into his music. Alongside The Miracles, who provide lush, soothing harmonies, Robinson sings about love, regret, and the longing for reconciliation. The song is a plea for forgiveness after mistakes have been made, all wrapped in a delicate melody that seems to float effortlessly. Robinson’s falsetto is soft yet filled with yearning, perfectly conveying the vulnerability of a man seeking a second chance in love. Its smooth, steady rhythm creates a dreamy atmosphere, adding to the song’s enduring charm. “Ooo Baby Baby” has since become one of Robinson’s most iconic tracks, beloved for its timeless appeal and emotional sincerity. It’s a song that continues to resonate with listeners, proving that Smokey’s ability to write and perform love songs is unmatched.
3. “Cruisin'” (1979)
In 1979, Smokey Robinson released one of his most memorable solo hits with “Cruisin’,” a smooth, mid-tempo groove that effortlessly captures the laid-back vibe of late ’70s soul music. Featured on his album Where There’s Smoke…, the song invites listeners to lose themselves in the music, just as it speaks of cruising through life with a loved one by your side. Robinson’s silky falsetto glides over the relaxed instrumentation, creating a seamless blend of romance and escapism. The song became a major hit, reaching No. 4 on the Billboard Hot 100, and it remains one of Robinson’s most recognized and beloved tracks. “Cruisin'” is a perfect example of his ability to evolve with the times while staying true to his signature sound. Its easygoing feel and romantic undertones make it a favorite among fans of all generations.
4. “I Second That Emotion” (1967)
Released in 1967, “I Second That Emotion” is a lively, upbeat tune that showcases Smokey Robinson’s gift for clever lyricism and catchy melodies. Co-written with Al Cleveland, the song plays on the phrase “seconding a motion” to describe affirming a lover’s feelings, making for a relatable and fun track. Robinson’s smooth vocals are perfectly complemented by The Miracles’ tight harmonies, while the song’s bright tempo and tambourine-heavy Motown rhythm make it a joy to listen to. The track became a major hit, reaching No. 1 on the R&B charts, and remains a dance floor favorite to this day. Its playful wordplay, combined with its infectious groove, ensures that “I Second That Emotion” continues to be one of Smokey Robinson’s most enduring classics.
5. “Tears of a Clown” (1967/1970)
Originally released in 1967 on The Miracles’ Make It Happen album, “Tears of a Clown” didn’t achieve its full potential until its 1970 release as a single. Co-written by Stevie Wonder, the song juxtaposes a bright, circus-like melody with deeply melancholic lyrics about hiding sorrow behind a happy face. Robinson’s storytelling shines as he uses the metaphor of a clown to convey the pain of masking heartache. The song became a massive hit, topping both the Billboard Hot 100 and the UK Singles Chart. Its unique blend of upbeat music and sorrowful lyrics makes it one of Robinson’s most iconic songs, illustrating his talent for emotional complexity within pop music.
6. “You’ve Really Got a Hold on Me” (1962)
Released in 1962, “You’ve Really Got a Hold on Me” is an early example of Smokey Robinson’s genius for crafting emotionally complex songs with unforgettable melodies. Inspired by Sam Cooke’s “Bring It On Home to Me,” this track delves into the emotional turmoil of being stuck in a relationship that feels both wrong and irresistible. The smooth, soulful harmonies from The Miracles and Robinson’s impassioned delivery elevate the song, helping it become a major hit, peaking at No. 8 on the Billboard Hot 100. The song’s enduring popularity has led to numerous covers by artists, including The Beatles, further solidifying its place in musical history.
7. “Being with You” (1981)
In 1981, Smokey Robinson proved that his solo career could be just as successful as his work with The Miracles with the release of “Being with You.” A romantic ballad, this track highlights Robinson’s signature smooth vocals as he professes his devotion to a lover despite the opinions of others. The song’s simple yet powerful message, combined with a soft, pop-soul arrangement, resonated with a wide audience. It became a major hit, reaching No. 2 on the Billboard Hot 100 and topping the R&B charts. “Being with You” remains one of Robinson’s most popular solo songs, showcasing his ability to create timeless love ballads.
8. “Shop Around” (1960)
In 1960, “Shop Around” marked a turning point for Smokey Robinson and Motown Records. As the label’s first million-selling single, it established Robinson as a premier songwriter and The Miracles as a leading force in the Motown sound. The song’s playful lyrics encourage a young man to “shop around” before settling down, blending cautionary advice with an irresistibly catchy melody. Its bouncy piano and upbeat rhythm made it an instant favorite, and the song quickly climbed the charts, peaking at No. 2 on the Billboard Hot 100. “Shop Around” remains one of Motown’s defining early hits, showcasing Robinson’s knack for writing clever, relatable songs.
9. “Baby, Baby Don’t Cry” (1969)
“Baby, Baby Don’t Cry,” released in 1969, is a soul ballad that exemplifies Smokey Robinson’s ability to write songs that resonate emotionally. With The Miracles’ harmonies providing a rich backdrop, Robinson sings about offering comfort during times of heartbreak. The song’s lush orchestration and Robinson’s tender delivery create a sense of solace and reassurance. A significant hit, “Baby, Baby Don’t Cry” reached No. 8 on the Billboard Hot 100. It’s another highlight in Robinson’s impressive career, showing his talent for crafting songs that are both soothing and deeply emotional.
10. “More Love” (1967)
“More Love,” released in 1967, is one of Smokey Robinson’s most heartfelt compositions. Written during a challenging period in his personal life, the song’s lyrics reflect deep devotion and the belief in love’s ability to overcome adversity. The orchestral arrangement and The Miracles’ harmonies create a lush backdrop for Robinson’s soulful lead vocals. The song became a Top 20 hit, reaching No. 23 on the Billboard Hot 100. “More Love” is a testament to Robinson’s ability to craft songs that are both deeply personal and universally relatable, solidifying his place as one of Motown’s most gifted songwriters and performers.
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.
