Smokey Robinson

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Smokey Robinson's biggest hit?

Smokey Robinson's biggest hit is arguably "Cruisin'," a smooth R&B single released in 1979 from his solo album "Where There's Smoke"¦". This iconic song became a crossover success, reaching number four on the Billboard Hot 100 and earning gold certification. "Cruisin'" is renowned for its laid-back groove, romantic lyrics, and Smokey's signature falsetto, making it a staple of classic R&B playlists. The song's enduring popularity is evident in its frequent radio play and numerous covers, including a notable duet by D'Angelo and a version with Jessie J. While Smokey Robinson's career includes many chart-topping tracks both as a solo artist and with The Miracles

How many hit songs did Smokey Robinson write?

Smokey Robinson is credited with writing or co-writing over 4,000 songs throughout his illustrious career, including dozens of hit singles for himself, The Miracles, and other Motown legends. As the principal songwriter and frontman for The Miracles, he penned classic hits like "Shop Around," "You've Really Got a Hold on Me," and "The Tracks of My Tears." Robinson also wrote and produced chart-toppers for other Motown stars, such as "My Guy" for Mary Wells, "My Girl" and "Get Ready" for The Temptations, and "Ain't That Peculiar" for Marvin Gaye. His prolific songwriting has earned him the nickname "The Poet Laureate of Soul." Robinson's songs have become timeless anthems in R&B and pop music, with many being inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame. His extensive catalog and influence make him one of the most important and successful songwriters in the history of American popular music.

What is Smokey Robinson's most famous band called?

Smokey Robinson's most famous band is The Miracles. As the founder and lead singer, Robinson propelled The Miracles to international stardom during the 1960s and early 1970s. The group was integral to the success of Motown Records, delivering a string of hit singles such as "Shop Around," "You've Really Got a Hold on Me," "The Tracks of My Tears," and "Ooo Baby Baby." The Miracles' smooth harmonies, emotionally resonant lyrics, and infectious melodies helped define the Motown sound and establish R&B as a dominant force in popular music. With Robinson as their chief songwriter and frontman, The Miracles became one of the most influential groups of their era, inspiring countless artists and earning induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. The band's collaboration with Smokey Robinson remains a benchmark for excellence in R&B and soul music.

What song did Smokey Robinson write for the Beatles?

Smokey Robinson did not write a song specifically for The Beatles, but his influence on the legendary British band is well-documented. The Beatles were admirers of Smokey Robinson's songwriting, frequently citing him as a major inspiration. In fact, The Beatles covered The Miracles' hit "You've Really Got a Hold on Me" on their second album, "With the Beatles," released in 1963. The soulful track, originally written and performed by Smokey Robinson and The Miracles, became a fan favorite and highlighted The Beatles' appreciation for Motown and American R&B. While Robinson never penned an original song expressly for The Beatles, his work deeply influenced their sound and songwriting approach, showcasing the global impact of his music.

Why do they call him Smokey Robinson?

Smokey Robinson received his famous nickname "Smokey" as a child from his Uncle Claude. Growing up in Detroit, Robinson was fascinated by cowboy movies, and his uncle often took him to see Westerns. To give him a cool, tough persona, Uncle Claude began calling him "Smokey Joe" as a cowboy nickname