William “Smokey” Robinson Jr., born February 19, 1940, in Detroit, Michigan, is a pivotal figure in American music. As a singer, songwriter, producer, and founding member of The Miracles, he helped define the Motown sound that dominated the 1960s. His silky voice, poetic lyrics, and innovative production shaped soul and R&B, earning him a lasting legacy as one of music’s greats.
Early Life
Raised in Detroit’s North End, Robinson grew up in a working-class neighborhood. His nickname “Smokey” came from his uncle, inspired by his light skin and love for cowboy movies. Music was a constant in his childhood, with influences ranging from gospel to blues. By his teens, he was writing songs and performing in local groups, setting the stage for his future career.
Career Highlights
Robinson formed The Miracles (initially The Matadors) in 1955 while still in high school. The group signed with Motown Records in 1960, and hits like “Shop Around” (Motown’s first million-seller), “You’ve Really Got a Hold on Me,” and “The Tracks of My Tears” followed. His songwriting extended beyond The Miracles, penning classics like “My Girl” for The Temptations and “Ain’t That Peculiar” for Marvin Gaye.
As Motown’s vice president from 1961 to 1988, Robinson played a key role in the label’s success. He went solo in 1972, releasing albums like A Quiet Storm (1975), which birthed the “quiet storm” radio format. His solo hits include “Cruisin’” and “Being with You.” Robinson’s ability to blend raw emotion with sophisticated melodies made him a standout.
Personal and Family Details
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | William Robinson Jr. |
| Date of Birth | February 19, 1940 |
| Place of Birth | Detroit, Michigan, USA |
| Parents | William Robinson Sr. (father), Flossie Robinson (mother) |
| Siblings | Two sisters, Geraldine and Rose |
| Spouses | Claudette Rogers (m. 1959–1986), Frances Gladney (m. 2002–present) |
| Children | Berry Robinson, Tamla Robinson (from Claudette), Trey Robinson (extramarital) |
| Ethnicity | African American |
| Education | Northern High School, Detroit; briefly attended college before music career |
Robinson’s first marriage to Claudette Rogers, a fellow Miracles member, was tumultuous, marked by infidelity and a publicized extramarital child. His second marriage to Frances Gladney has been more stable, grounding him in later years.
Legacy and Impact
Robinson’s influence is vast. He wrote over 4,000 songs, many becoming standards. His work with The Miracles earned them a 2012 Rock and Roll Hall of Fame induction (after his solo induction in 1987). He received a Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award in 2016 and the Gershwin Prize for Popular Song in 2016. His smooth tenor and heartfelt lyrics inspired generations of artists, from The Beatles to Alicia Keys.
Recent Activities
As of 2025, Robinson, now 85, remains active. He continues to perform, with recent shows showcasing his timeless voice. In 2023, he released Gasms, his first album in nearly a decade, proving his creative spark endures. He also engages in philanthropy, supporting music education in Detroit.
Conclusion
Smokey Robinson is more than a Motown icon; he’s a musical architect whose work transcends eras. His ability to capture love’s joys and pains in song, combined with his business acumen at Motown, cements his place in history. From Detroit’s streets to global stages, Robinson’s journey embodies the soul of American music.
