When it comes to timeless soul and poetic songwriting, few names shine as brightly as Smokey Robinson. A founding father of Motown and a voice that defined an era, Smokey’s influence stretches far beyond chart positions—his music has become the emotional soundtrack to countless lives. With a career spanning over six decades, he’s penned some of the most beloved love songs and heartbreak anthems in music history, combining silky-smooth vocals with lyrics that cut straight to the soul.
Whether fronting The Miracles or forging his own path as a solo artist, Smokey delivered hit after hit, each one dripping with elegance, emotion, and unmistakable style. From tear-streaked ballads to romantic slow burns, his songs continue to inspire, comfort, and move generations of fans. But which tracks stand tallest among his legendary catalog?
In this article, we’re counting down the Top 10 Most Popular Smokey Robinson Songs of All Time—the tunes that not only dominated the charts but also left an indelible mark on music and culture. So cue up your record player (or playlist), and get ready to revisit the magic, the melodies, and the Motown genius of Smokey Robinson. These are the songs that made us smile, cry, and fall in love.
1. “The Tracks of My Tears” (1965)
Few songs capture the ache of hidden heartache quite like “The Tracks of My Tears.” Released in 1965 by Smokey Robinson & The Miracles, this Motown classic is an emotional masterwork that pairs poetic vulnerability with soul-stirring melody. From the first shimmering guitar notes to Smokey’s plaintive, aching tenor, the song reveals the pain behind a well-rehearsed smile. Its iconic lyric—“So take a good look at my face”—isn’t just memorable, it’s a heartfelt invitation to see beyond the surface. The song portrays a man who appears happy to the world, but is quietly crumbling inside. Smokey’s delicate vocals and the group’s harmonies elevate the track into something timeless and profoundly human. “The Tracks of My Tears” became a turning point in Smokey’s songwriting career, showcasing his gift for turning complex emotions into lyrical poetry. The song remains one of the most enduring heartbreak anthems in pop and soul history, covered by artists across generations. But no version captures the original’s fragile beauty and raw sincerity. This isn’t just a song—it’s an open wound, dressed in melody, that continues to resonate with anyone who’s ever smiled through sorrow.
2. “The Tears of a Clown” (1967/1970)
At first listen, “The Tears of a Clown” might sound like a cheerful tune, with its jaunty rhythm and whimsical calliope intro. But don’t be fooled—beneath the circus-like soundscape lies a poignant story of masked pain and loneliness. First released on a 1967 album before becoming a breakout single in 1970, this track was co-written by Smokey Robinson and Stevie Wonder, blending theatrical flair with emotional depth. The lyrics describe a person who plays the role of the happy entertainer, all while hiding deep sadness: a metaphor that resonated deeply with listeners. Smokey’s expressive voice brings out every nuance of that inner conflict, making the contrast between the upbeat music and the sorrowful message even more powerful. When released as a single, it climbed to No. 1 on both the Billboard Hot 100 and the UK Singles Chart, becoming The Miracles’ biggest hit. “The Tears of a Clown” is a brilliant reminder that appearances can be deceiving—and that some of the most dazzling smiles hide the deepest pain. It’s a masterclass in emotional storytelling, wrapped in one of the most unique and unforgettable arrangements in the Motown catalogue.
3. “Cruisin’” (1979)
“Cruisin’” marked a smooth and soulful chapter in Smokey Robinson’s career as he stepped confidently into the late 1970s. Released in 1979 as part of his solo album Where There’s Smoke…, the song captures the essence of slow-burning romance. With its gentle groove, intimate production, and Smokey’s breathy, sensual delivery, “Cruisin’” is less about destination and more about enjoying the journey—especially when it’s shared with someone special. The chorus, “I love it when we’re cruisin’ together,” quickly became a signature phrase for lovers everywhere, celebrating quiet connection over dramatic declarations. The song’s relaxed tempo and warm instrumentation made it an instant favorite on adult contemporary and R&B charts, peaking at No. 4 on the Billboard Hot 100. “Cruisin’” showed that Smokey could evolve with the times without losing the emotional depth and romantic finesse that defined his earlier work. Over the years, the song has remained a staple of love playlists, praised for its timeless quality and seductive charm. It’s a classic that invites listeners to slow down, tune in, and savor the beauty of simply being with someone they love.
4. “You’ve Really Got a Hold on Me” (1962)
Released in 1962, “You’ve Really Got a Hold on Me” stands as one of Smokey Robinson & The Miracles’ most iconic and emotionally rich songs. From the very first line—“I don’t like you, but I love you”—the listener is drawn into a story of romantic turmoil and emotional conflict. The lyrics reflect the push and pull of a love that is both irresistible and frustrating, capturing the complexity of human connection with honesty and finesse. Smokey’s soulful vocal delivery, paired with the group’s harmonies and a blues-tinged melody, gives the song its powerful impact. It quickly became a crossover hit and was famously covered by The Beatles, further cementing its influence. But the original version, with Smokey’s raw vocal vulnerability, remains the definitive take. This track showed early on that Smokey was not just a great singer, but a gifted storyteller who could articulate the tangled feelings most people struggle to express. “You’ve Really Got a Hold on Me” endures not just as a Motown classic, but as a timeless exploration of love’s contradictions.
5. “Ooo Baby Baby” (1965)
“Ooo Baby Baby” is a masterclass in soul balladry—an intimate, heart-wrenching confession that showcases Smokey Robinson’s ability to convey profound emotion with the softest touch. Released in 1965, the song features The Miracles’ signature harmonies wrapped around Smokey’s tender falsetto, creating a sound that’s as delicate as it is powerful. It’s a song of regret, apology, and longing, with every note soaked in sincerity. The lyrics are spare, almost minimal, but that’s where their power lies. “I did you wrong, my heart went out to play,” Smokey sings, admitting his faults with disarming vulnerability. The repeated phrase, “Ooo baby baby,” becomes a soulful mantra of yearning and remorse. The arrangement is simple—gentle guitar, subtle rhythms, and warm harmonies—allowing the raw emotion of the vocals to take center stage. Over the decades, countless artists have covered the song, including Linda Ronstadt and Alicia Keys, but none have matched the quiet heartbreak of the original. “Ooo Baby Baby” remains one of the finest examples of how less can be more when it comes to expressing true emotion.
6. “I Second That Emotion” (1967)
Released in 1967, “I Second That Emotion” is one of Smokey Robinson’s most playful and cleverly written tracks with The Miracles. The title came about by accident—Smokey meant to say “I second that motion” but misspoke, and the phrase stuck. That happy slip-up led to one of the most memorable hooks in Motown history. The song blends a breezy melody with razor-sharp wit, as Smokey sings about wanting mutual love rather than one-sided devotion. The lyrics balance flirtation with wisdom: if the feelings aren’t mutual, maybe it’s better to walk away. Musically, it’s upbeat and bright, with sparkling guitar riffs and silky harmonies that made it instantly catchy. It became a crossover hit, climbing into the Top 10 on both the pop and R&B charts, and it’s still a favorite in classic soul playlists. What makes “I Second That Emotion” so enduring is how it wraps real emotional insight in a package that feels light, fun, and effortlessly cool. It’s romantic without being sappy, clever without being cynical—a perfect showcase of Smokey’s lyrical dexterity and The Miracles’ timeless sound.
7. “Baby, Baby Don’t Cry” (1968)
Released in 1968, “Baby, Baby Don’t Cry” is one of the more emotionally comforting songs in Smokey Robinson & The Miracles’ discography. At a time when many of Smokey’s ballads leaned into heartbreak, this one offers a sense of hope and healing. From its gentle piano intro to the swelling orchestration, the track builds a safe space of warmth and reassurance. Smokey’s voice is full of tenderness as he encourages a lover to move past the pain: “Dry your eyes and let me love you,” he sings with quiet urgency. The song’s message is clear—heartache may hurt, but love can heal. The lush production is rich without overpowering the emotional core, making it as soothing to the ears as it is to the soul. It became a Top 10 R&B hit and crossed over to the pop charts, cementing its place among the group’s most beloved tracks. “Baby, Baby Don’t Cry” stands out because it doesn’t wallow in sadness—it uplifts. It’s the kind of song you turn to when you need reassurance, and it’s a perfect example of the nurturing power of soul music.
8. “Being with You” (1981)
“Being with You,” released in 1981, proved that Smokey Robinson could evolve with the times while staying true to his romantic essence. As a solo artist, Smokey had already made waves in the ’70s, but this track solidified his success in the early ’80s. It’s a sleek, soft-pop ballad that feels both personal and universal. With its smooth synths, gentle percussion, and understated groove, “Being with You” radiates warmth. But it’s the lyrics that carry the emotional weight—Smokey sings about a love so powerful, it overshadows societal expectations and outside opinions: “I don’t care about anything else but being with you.” The song’s honesty and vulnerability struck a chord with listeners worldwide. It reached No. 2 on the Billboard Hot 100 and topped charts in the UK, making it one of his biggest international hits. What makes it endure is its sincerity—this isn’t flashy or dramatic love, it’s steady, determined, and real. “Being with You” reminds us that the quietest declarations of love often mean the most. It’s a timeless ballad that captures the unwavering pull of true devotion.
9. “Shop Around” (1960)
“Shop Around” was more than just a hit single—it was a defining moment for Motown. Released in 1960, it became the label’s first million-selling record and helped establish Motown as a major force in American music. The song captures a mix of youthful charm and old-fashioned wisdom, framed as a conversation between a mother and her son. She warns him not to settle too quickly in love: “You better shop around.” Smokey Robinson delivers the message with a mix of humor, earnestness, and just the right dose of teenage rebellion. Musically, it’s driven by a punchy piano riff, a swinging rhythm, and tight harmonies from The Miracles. The song’s catchy melody and relatable message made it an immediate hit on both the R&B and pop charts. Beyond its commercial success, “Shop Around” helped define the Motown sound—smooth, soulful, and irresistibly danceable. It also showcased Smokey’s early talent as a songwriter and storyteller. Even decades later, its blend of advice and rhythm still resonates. “Shop Around” wasn’t just a song; it was a musical milestone that opened the door for what Motown would become.
10. “More Love” (1967)
“More Love,” released in 1967, is one of the most heartfelt and personal songs in Smokey Robinson’s career. Written for his wife Claudette, the track was inspired by the couple’s struggles, including the devastating loss of multiple pregnancies. That emotional weight gives the song a quiet but powerful depth. Rather than focus on sorrow, Smokey turns the pain into a reaffirmation of love. “This is a love I’m giving to you,” he sings, his voice tender and full of devotion. The arrangement is soft and elegant, featuring gentle strings and subtle backing harmonies that let the lyrics take center stage. Unlike some of his more radio-ready hits, “More Love” feels like an intimate letter set to music. It was a modest chart success at the time, but over the years, it has earned its place as one of Smokey’s most poignant compositions. What makes the song so moving is its sincerity—this isn’t just a love song, it’s a promise born from real-life heartache. “More Love” reminds us that sometimes the greatest strength in a relationship comes not from avoiding pain, but from choosing love in the face of it.
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.
