Few artists in music history have shaped soul and R&B quite like Smokey Robinson. With his silky falsetto, poetic songwriting, and undeniable charisma, Robinson became one of Motown’s most influential figures, crafting songs that continue to captivate audiences decades later. Whether leading The Miracles or shining as a solo artist, his ability to blend raw emotion with elegant melodies made him a legend.
From heart-wrenching ballads to irresistible grooves, Smokey’s music tells stories of love, longing, and joy with unmatched grace. His words have been sung by icons, covered by rock bands, and cherished by fans across generations. Songs like “The Tracks of My Tears”, “Cruisin'”, and “Ooo Baby Baby” aren’t just hits—they’re timeless anthems that defined the golden era of Motown and beyond.
In this list, we dive into Smokey Robinson’s 10 most popular songs of all time, celebrating the tracks that made him an enduring icon. Whether you’re discovering his music for the first time or revisiting these classics, prepare to be transported by the smooth, soulful sound of one of the greatest voices in history. Let’s take a journey through Smokey Robinson’s most unforgettable songs!
1. “Tears of a Clown” (1967) – The Miracles
A song that perfectly blends upbeat energy with emotional depth, “Tears of a Clown” remains one of The Miracles’ most unforgettable hits. Originally appearing on their 1967 album Make It Happen, the track didn’t achieve widespread fame until its 1970 re-release as a single. Co-written by the legendary Stevie Wonder, the song pairs a bright, circus-inspired melody with heartbreaking lyrics about hiding pain behind a joyful facade. Smokey Robinson’s soulful, expressive vocals bring the contrast to life, making the song both danceable and deeply poignant. When it finally hit the airwaves as a single, it soared to No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100, cementing Smokey’s reputation as a masterful songwriter and performer.
2. “The Tracks of My Tears” (1965) – The Miracles
Few songs capture the agony of hidden heartbreak as beautifully as “The Tracks of My Tears.” Released in 1965, this soul classic showcases Smokey Robinson’s signature falsetto, delivering a tale of sorrow masked behind a smile. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a man who appears happy on the outside but is suffering in silence. Featuring smooth guitar work, lush harmonies, and an unforgettable melody, the song became an anthem of emotional vulnerability. A defining track of the Motown era, it remains one of The Miracles’ most beloved hits and was later honored with induction into the Grammy Hall of Fame.
3. “Cruisin’” (1979) – Smokey Robinson (Solo)
Sensual, smooth, and irresistibly romantic, “Cruisin’” became one of Smokey Robinson’s most successful solo hits following his departure from The Miracles. Released in 1979, the song’s laid-back groove and dreamy melody created an atmosphere perfect for slow dancing and intimate moments. With its hypnotic rhythm and Smokey’s velvety vocals, it captivated listeners, climbing to No. 4 on the Billboard Hot 100. Over the years, the song has been covered and sampled by various artists, proving its timeless appeal. Whether played in dimly lit lounges or at weddings, “Cruisin’” remains a go-to track for romance.
4. “Being with You” (1981) – Smokey Robinson (Solo)
A heartfelt ballad about unwavering devotion, “Being with You” stands as one of Smokey Robinson’s most cherished solo hits. Released in 1981, the song became a commercial success, peaking at No. 2 on the Billboard Hot 100. The lyrics tell the story of a love so strong that it defies outside judgment, a theme that resonated deeply with listeners. Paired with a warm, melodic arrangement and Robinson’s emotive delivery, the song exudes sincerity and passion. “Being with You” remains a timeless romantic anthem, a testament to Smokey’s enduring ability to capture the beauty of love in song.
5. “Ooo Baby Baby” (1965) – The Miracles
Delicate and deeply emotional, “Ooo Baby Baby” is one of The Miracles’ most iconic ballads. Released in 1965, the song is a heartfelt plea for forgiveness after a romantic misstep. Smokey Robinson’s ethereal falsetto takes center stage, delivering every word with raw vulnerability. The minimal yet expressive instrumentation allows the emotion in his voice to shine through, making for an intimate listening experience. Over the decades, “Ooo Baby Baby” has been covered by numerous artists, including Linda Ronstadt, further cementing its status as a soul classic that never loses its impact.
6. “Shop Around” (1960) – The Miracles
As Motown’s first million-selling single, “Shop Around” holds a special place in music history. Released in 1960, this upbeat, piano-driven track offers witty, fatherly advice about being cautious when choosing a romantic partner. The infectious rhythm, playful lyrics, and Smokey Robinson’s smooth vocals made it an instant hit, reaching No. 2 on the Billboard Hot 100. More than just a catchy tune, “Shop Around” helped establish The Miracles as one of Motown’s premier groups and set the stage for the label’s golden era of success.
7. “You’ve Really Got a Hold on Me” (1962) – The Miracles
A song so powerful that even The Beatles couldn’t resist covering it, “You’ve Really Got a Hold on Me” is a testament to the emotional depth of Smokey Robinson’s songwriting. Released in 1962, this bluesy, slow-burning track captures the conflicting emotions of a love that is both intoxicating and painful. The longing in Robinson’s voice, combined with the rich harmonies of The Miracles, creates a deeply moving experience. As one of Motown’s most celebrated hits, the song continues to resonate with audiences, proving that the struggle of love is timeless.
8. “I Second That Emotion” (1967) – The Miracles
Clever wordplay meets an irresistible melody in “I Second That Emotion.” Released in 1967, the song’s title was inspired by a slip of the tongue from songwriter Al Cleveland, which Robinson immediately recognized as a hit idea. The track’s upbeat tempo and smooth harmonies contrast with its romantic plea, making it both fun and heartfelt. Climbing to No. 4 on the Billboard Hot 100, the song became one of The Miracles’ biggest hits and remains a favorite among Motown fans to this day.
9. “Baby, Baby Don’t Cry” (1968) – The Miracles
A sweeping, cinematic ballad, “Baby, Baby Don’t Cry” showcases the dramatic side of The Miracles. Released in 1968, the song tells the story of a man reassuring his heartbroken lover, promising her a future of happiness. The lush orchestration, combined with Robinson’s tender and emotive vocals, gives the track a grand, almost movie-like feel. The song reached No. 8 on the Billboard Hot 100 and remains a standout in The Miracles’ discography, highlighting Robinson’s ability to blend storytelling with deep emotion.
10. “Just to See Her” (1987) – Smokey Robinson (Solo)
A late-career triumph, “Just to See Her” earned Smokey Robinson his first Grammy Award for Best Male R&B Vocal Performance. Released in 1987, the song is a passionate ballad about longing and devotion, featuring a rich production that complements Robinson’s smooth, heartfelt vocals. Peaking at No. 8 on the Billboard Hot 100, the track became one of his most successful solo hits. “Just to See Her” stands as a shining example of Smokey’s enduring artistry, proving that even after decades in the music industry, his voice and songwriting remained as captivating as ever.
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.
