The Iconic Legacy of Smokey Robinson: Celebrating a Music Legend — Stay tuned…. you just never know…..
The legendary Smokey Robinson is a musical icon who has made an indelible mark on the music industry. He began his career in 1955 as the lead singer of The Miracles, and he quickly became one of Motown’s most successful artists. His distinct voice, coupled with his songwriting abilities and production skills, have won him numerous awards over the years including a Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award in 1987. Throughout his illustrious career he has released more than 35 studio albums and composed hits such as “Tears of a Clown” and “My Girl” that are still beloved by fans around the world today. His productions for other artists like Marvin Gaye, Stevie Wonder, The Jackson 5 and Mary Wells also make him one of Motown’s greatest contributors to its success during its heyday in the late 1960s and 1970s. He continues to perform live performances around the world today where his timeless songs create unforgettable moments for audiences everywhere. As one of soul music’s most iconic voices, Smokey Robinson will forever remain an inspiration for generations to come!
The Motown Legend, Smokey Robinson: A Look Back at His Storied Career in Music
When it comes to the history of music, few names are as iconic as Smokey Robinson. As a singer, songwriter and producer for the legendary Motown record label in Detroit during its heyday in the 1960s and 70s, Smokey has left a lasting impression on generations of fans around the world. He is often referred to as one of the most successful African-American songwriters and performers ever due to his immense influence over popular music. To this day, his work continues to be celebrated by both old and new audiences alike.
Smokey was born William “Smokey” Robinson Jr., just outside of Detroit on February 19th 1940. Growing up he loved singing doo-wop along with his school friends which eventually led him to joining The Miracles group after graduating high school in 1957. Initially signed onto Motown Records simply as a vocalist for their songs written by Berry Gordy (the label’s founder), Smokey soon began writing many hit singles including “You’ve Really Got A Hold On Me” (1962) which quickly rose up the charts becoming an instant classic amongst soul music fans everywhere.
From then onwards throughout much of his career at Motown Records alongside The Miracles group, they released hit after hit such as “Shop Around” (1960), “I Second That Emotion” (1967) and famously “Tears Of A Clown” (1970). During this period he also wrote multiple chart topping tracks for other artists like Mary Wells (“My Guy”, 1964) and Marvin Gaye (“Ain’t That Peculiar” 1965). In total between 1959–1972 alone Smokey penned 32 top 10 hits!
In 1972 The Miracles disbanded however fortunately instead of fading into obscurity or giving up completely like some other former members did; Smoke solo singing career flourished leading him towards further success with more number 1 hits like “Cruisin’”(1979). Alongside touring tirelessly across America performing live shows; he was simultaneously involved with producing records from 1982–2003 working behind the scenes and helping many upcoming acts achieve stardom such as Bobby Brown’s 1988 album Don’t Be Cruel going triple platinum status worldwide! After decades since first starting out within the industry; it’s no surprise that today people still consider him one of if not THE finest R&B artist/songwriter/producer who ever lived!
