Smokey Robinson
Smokey Robinson is one of the most recognized American Musicians of the Greatest Generation generation.
American R&B singer, songwriter and producer
"Smokey Robinson's most defining career moment arguably came with The Miracles' 1960 hit "Shop Around," which became Motown's first million-selling single." — About Smokey Robinson
| Metric | Smokey Robinson | Avg Musician | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Age | 86 | 57 | +29 yrs |
| Career length | 68 yrs | ~35 yrs | +33 yrs |
| Based on 830 Musician profiles in our database | |||
See also
Facts about Smokey Robinson
Did you know that Smokey Robinson was originally offered the lead role in the movie "Lady Sings the Blues" but ultimately turned it down?
- "Smokey" was a childhood nickname given to him by his uncle, derived from his love for cowboy movies.
- He served as Vice President of Motown Records from 1961 to 1988, playing a key role in its business operations.
- Robinson wrote or co-wrote over 4,000 songs, including hits for The Temptations, Mary Wells, and Marvin Gaye.
- His 1960 hit "Shop Around" with The Miracles was Motown's first million-selling single and national No. 1 R&B hit.
- He was inducted into the Songwriters Hall of Fame in 1989 and the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame as a solo artist in 1987.
Smokey Robinson's most defining career moment arguably came with The Miracles' 1960 hit "Shop Around," which became Motown's first million-selling single. This success not only launched The Miracles into stardom but also established Robinson as a prolific songwriter and producer, laying crucial groundwork for Motown's legendary sound and future dominance.
Smokey Robinson's smooth vocals and sophisticated songwriting profoundly shaped the sound of Motown, influencing generations of R&B and pop artists. His timeless contributions as an artist, writer, and executive made him an indispensable architect of popular music.