Smokey Robinson

William "Smokey" Robinson Jr., born on February 19, 1940 in Detroit, Michigan, is an iconic American R&B, soul, and pop vocalist whose career spans more than six decades. He began his musical journey at the age of ten, forming the doo‑wop group Five Chimes with school friends, which evolved into the Miracles after several name changes and lineup adjustments. The Miracles quickly caught the attention of Berry Gordy, leading to a historic partnership that produced Motown’s first million‑selling single, “Shop Around,” and a string of classics such as “The Tears of a Clown,” “Tracks of My Tears,” and “Ooo Baby Baby.” As chief songwriter and producer for Motown throughout the 1960s, Robinson crafted hits not only for his own group but also for Mary Wells, the Temptations, Marvin Gaye, the Four Tops, and many others, cementing his reputation as one of the most prolific composers in popular music. After retiring from touring in 1972 to focus on his role as Motown vice‑president, Robinson launched a successful solo career, delivering timeless albums like A Quiet Storm and chart‑topping singles such as “Being with You,” “Cruisin’,” and “Just to See Her,” the latter earning him a Grammy Award. Beyond the recording studio, Robinson’s influence extended to film, television, and philanthropy; he received an individual star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, was inducted into both the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame (as a solo artist) and later with the Miracles, and earned the Library of Congress Gershwin Prize for Popular Song. In recent years he has remained active as a performer, mentor, and owner‑host of SiriusXM’s Soul Town channel, while also navigating personal challenges and continuing to release new music, including the 2023 album Gasms. His enduring legacy is defined by melodic elegance, lyrical depth, and an unwavering commitment to the soul of American music.