With a career spanning over six decades, Smokey Robinson is more than just a legendary singer-songwriter—he’s a cornerstone of Motown and a pioneer of soul music. His silky voice, heartfelt lyrics, and timeless melodies have made him one of the most beloved artists in music history. Whether leading The Miracles or shining as a solo artist, Smokey has penned some of the most iconic love songs, heartbreak anthems, and feel-good hits that have defined generations. From the smooth grooves of “Cruisin’” to the tear-jerking balladry of “The Tracks of My Tears,” Robinson’s music has the unique ability to capture both joy and sorrow, often in the same breath. His songs not only topped the charts but also became the soundtrack to millions of lives, earning him a place in the hearts of fans worldwide. In this article, we’ll take you on a journey through Smokey Robinson’s most popular hits—the songs that have stood the test of time and continue to resonate with listeners today. Get ready to dive into the top 10 Smokey Robinson tracks that have cemented his legacy as one of the greatest artists of all time!
1. “The Tracks of My Tears” (1965)
Released in 1965, “The Tracks of My Tears” stands as one of Smokey Robinson and The Miracles’ most unforgettable songs. Its emotionally charged lyrics and Robinson’s heartfelt delivery make it a classic reflection on hidden pain. The song tells the poignant story of someone who masks their heartache behind a smile, as illustrated by the iconic line, “My smile is my makeup I wear since my breakup with you.” This touching sentiment of vulnerability struck a chord with listeners, making the song deeply relatable. Backed by Motown’s signature sound, the track blends soulful melodies with raw emotion, helping it become an enduring hit of the 1960s. Its themes of regret, sorrow, and emotional facade have allowed it to transcend generations, cementing its place as a timeless staple in the world of soul and R&B music.
2. “Tears of a Clown” (1967)
“Tears of a Clown,” first appearing on the 1967 Make It Happen album, became a massive hit in 1970 when re-released as a single. With its lively, circus-like melody and melancholy lyrics, the song presents a masterful contrast between happiness and sorrow. Co-written by Stevie Wonder, its joyful instrumentation belies the sadness within the lyrics, as Robinson delves into the pain of hiding loneliness behind a smile. This blend of upbeat sounds with emotional depth struck a universal chord, propelling the song to the top of the charts. Its message of inner turmoil masked by outward joy remains relatable, making it a standout track in Smokey Robinson’s legendary career.
3. “Ooo Baby Baby” (1965)
“Ooo Baby Baby” is a tender, soulful ballad that beautifully showcases Smokey Robinson’s smooth falsetto and emotional delivery. Released in 1965, this song became a quintessential slow jam of the Motown era, resonating with fans for its simplicity and heartfelt emotion. The track’s delicate melody, combined with Robinson’s sincere apology for a romantic mistake, struck a chord with listeners experiencing love and regret. Its timeless appeal and romantic yearning make it one of the most beloved ballads from that period, cementing its place as an essential R&B classic. Smokey’s ability to express complex feelings with such minimalistic, yet powerful, lyrics is what continues to make “Ooo Baby Baby” a fan favorite.
4. “I Second That Emotion” (1967)
Released in 1967, “I Second That Emotion” showcases Smokey Robinson and The Miracles’ talent for blending catchy melodies with heartfelt lyrics. This upbeat track cleverly plays on the common phrase “I second that motion,” transforming it into a declaration of shared love. Robinson’s signature smooth vocals, paired with an infectious rhythm, gave the song widespread appeal, allowing it to climb to No. 4 on the Billboard Hot 100. Its joyful spirit, relatable lyrics, and breezy Motown production helped it become a fan favorite, perfectly encapsulating the feel-good energy of the Motown sound during its golden era.
5. “Cruisin’” (1979)
In 1979, “Cruisin’” marked Smokey Robinson’s return to the spotlight as a solo artist, delivering a smooth, laid-back groove that immediately captured listeners’ attention. With its slow tempo and sensual lyrics, the song invites listeners to relax and savor the moment. Robinson’s falsetto adds a layer of intimacy, making the song feel perfect for romantic settings or peaceful nights. “Cruisin’” became a crossover hit, resonating with a wide audience and cementing its place in Smokey’s catalog as a timeless love song. Its effortless vibe, combined with its romantic undertones, makes it a favorite for those seeking a song that encapsulates the feeling of connection and closeness.
6. “You’ve Really Got a Hold on Me” (1962)
Released in 1962, “You’ve Really Got a Hold on Me” quickly became a defining song for Smokey Robinson and The Miracles. Its bluesy, soulful vibe beautifully captures the complexity of a love that causes both happiness and heartache. Smokey’s vulnerable vocals express the push-and-pull of being trapped in an emotional tug-of-war with someone you can’t let go of, despite the pain they cause. The song’s simple, yet profound, lyrics and stripped-down arrangement allow Robinson’s voice to take center stage, making it one of the most emotionally resonant tracks in the Motown catalog and a timeless anthem for complicated love.
7. “Being with You” (1981)
“Being with You” became a major hit for Smokey Robinson in 1981, solidifying his success as a solo artist. With its smooth mid-tempo rhythm and Robinson’s tender vocals, the song delivers a heartfelt message about unconditional love. It speaks to the experience of standing by someone, even in the face of outside judgment or opposition. The song’s sincerity and relatable theme of defying societal expectations for love resonated with fans, earning it widespread success on both U.S. and international charts. Its catchy melody and Robinson’s earnest delivery make “Being with You” a standout in his solo career and a testament to his ability to connect with listeners on a deeply emotional level.
8. “More Love” (1967)
“More Love,” released in 1967, is a deeply personal ballad that captures Smokey Robinson’s devotion to his wife, Claudette. Written after the couple endured the hardship of several miscarriages, the song expresses a promise of unconditional love despite life’s challenges. With its tender melody and Robinson’s heartfelt delivery, “More Love” became one of The Miracles’ most touching songs. The orchestration, combined with the raw emotion in Robinson’s voice, gives the song an intimate feel that has resonated with listeners for decades. Its message of enduring love in the face of adversity makes it a beloved classic among fans of romantic soul music.
9. “Shop Around” (1960)
“Shop Around,” released in 1960, became The Miracles’ first major hit and a milestone for both Smokey Robinson and the Motown label. Co-written by Robinson and Berry Gordy, the song offers a piece of motherly advice: explore your options before settling down in love. Its upbeat tempo, catchy melody, and Robinson’s charismatic delivery turned it into an instant success. The song’s clever lyrics and lively energy captured the attention of audiences, establishing Motown’s signature sound and laying the groundwork for the label’s future dominance. “Shop Around” remains an important song in Motown’s history and a testament to Robinson’s songwriting talent.
10. “Baby, Baby Don’t Cry” (1968)
Released in 1968, “Baby, Baby Don’t Cry” is yet another example of Smokey Robinson’s incredible ability to turn heartache into something beautiful. In this song, Robinson comforts a lover in distress, offering words of solace and support. The lush orchestration, complete with soaring strings and horns, adds emotional depth to the track, while Robinson’s soothing vocals offer reassurance and hope. The song was a big hit, further showcasing Smokey’s gift for creating music that speaks to the soul. “Baby, Baby Don’t Cry” stands as a shining example of Robinson’s mastery in blending emotion with rich, soulful melodies, making it a standout track from his golden years.
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.
