Smokey Robinson Net Worth, Biography, Career, and Achievements
Smokey Robinson is an American R&B and pop singer-songwriter, record producer, and former record executive who has a net worth of $150 million. He is credited with pioneering the distinct Motown sound, which became incredibly popular from the 1950s to the 1970s. As an integral part of The Miracles, a vocal group that saw great success during the Motown era, Robinson built a legacy in the music industry. After leaving the group, he pursued a successful solo career and later served as vice president of Motown Records. In 1987, Smokey Robinson was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.
Who is Smokey Robinson?
Smokey Robinson is an American R&B and soul singer, songwriter, record producer, and former record executive. He was the founder and frontman of the pioneering Motown vocal group, The Miracles, for which he was also the chief songwriter and producer. Leading the group from its 1955 origins, when they were called The Five Chimes, until 1972, he later retired from the group to focus on his executive role at Motown Records. In 1973, he returned to the music industry as a solo artist. Robinson left Motown in 1999.
Smokey Robinson Early Life
William “Smokey” Robinson Jr. was born on February 19, 1940, in Detroit, Michigan. Raised in a poor household in Detroit’s North End, he earned the nickname “Smokey” from his uncle Claude. His uncle, who often took him to see cowboy movies, gave him the nickname “Smokey Joe” as his personal cowboy name. Eventually, young William began introducing himself as Smokey Joe, and over time, he dropped “Joe” and simply went by Smokey.
Smokey Robinson Education
Robinson attended Northern High School, where he excelled academically and athletically. However, his main passion was music. He formed a doo-wop group called The Five Chimes. He lived near Aretha Franklin in Detroit and had known her since she was five years old. Robinson’s love for music was sparked by listening to Nolan Strong & the Diablos and Billy Ward and His Dominoes. He has cited Barrett Strong, a fellow Detroit native, as a major vocal influence.
Smokey Robinson Early Career Highlights
Formation of The Miracles
Smokey Robinson‘s musical journey began in Detroit, where he formed a vocal group with childhood friends. This group evolved into The Miracles. Their first hit single, “Shop Around,” released in 1960, was Motown’s first million-selling record, launching Robinson’s illustrious career.
Success with The Miracles
As one of Motown Records’ first successful acts, The Miracles played a pivotal role in defining the label’s sound. With hits like “You’ve Really Got a Hold on Me,” “Tears of a Clown,” and “I Second That Emotion,” Robinson became one of the most influential songwriters of his era.
Smokey Robinson Songwriting Genius & Solo Success
Beyond his success with The Miracles, Smokey Robinson achieved a stellar solo career with hits like “Cruisin’,” “Being with You,” and “Just to See Her.” His ability to evolve musically has solidified his place in the industry.
Robinson also wrote hits for other artists, including:
- “My Girl” for The Temptations
- “Ain’t That Peculiar” for Marvin Gaye
His remarkable songwriting earned him inductions into both the Songwriters Hall of Fame and the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.
Smokey Robinson Awards and Accolades
- 1983: Star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame
- 1987: Inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame
- 1988: Won Grammy Award for Best Male R&B Vocal Performance for “Just to See Her”
- 1989: Inducted into the Songwriters Hall of Fame
- 1991: Won the Heritage Award at the Soul Train Music Awards
- 1993: Received the National Medal of Arts
- 2005: Inducted into the Michigan Rock and Roll Legends Hall of Fame
- 2006: Received an honorary Doctor of Music degree from Howard University
- 2006: Honored at the Kennedy Center Awards alongside Dolly Parton, Zubin Mehta, Steven Spielberg, and Andrew Lloyd Webber
Smokey Robinson Relationships
Smokey Robinson was first married to Claudette Rogers, a fellow member of The Miracles. The couple had two children together. However, their marriage ended in 1986 after Robinson fathered a child with another woman. In 2002, he married Frances Gladney.
FAQs
What is Smokey Robinson’s net worth?
Smokey Robinson’s net worth is estimated at $150 million, thanks to his successful career as a singer, songwriter, and record producer.
What are some of Smokey Robinson’s most famous songs?
Some of Robinson’s greatest hits include “Shop Around,” “You’ve Really Got a Hold on Me,” “Tears of a Clown,” “Cruisin’,” and “Being with You.”
When was Smokey Robinson inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame?
He was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1987.
What was Smokey Robinson’s role at Motown Records?
Robinson served as vice president of Motown Records, helping develop the careers of numerous artists.
Is Smokey Robinson still active in the music industry?
Yes, Smokey Robinson continues to perform and record music, remaining an influential figure in the industry.
Conclusion
Smokey Robinson is undeniably a music legend, with an incredible career spanning over six decades. His contributions to Motown, both as an artist and executive, have left an indelible mark on the music industry. With a net worth of $150 million, his influence continues to be felt through his timeless music, songwriting, and mentorship of future artists. His induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and Songwriters Hall of Fame cements his legacy as one of the greatest musicians in history. Smokey Robinson’s music remains a testament to his genius, and his story is one of talent, dedication, and enduring success.
