Smokey Robinson, born William Smokey Robinson Jr.on February 19, 1940, in Detroit, Michigan, is a towering figure in American music history.

Known for his silky falsetto voice, poetic songwriting, and influential role at Motown Records, Robinson’s career spans over six decades and has left an indelible mark on soul, R&B, and popular music worldwide.

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Now, at 85, Robinson has opened up publicly about his personal memories of John Lennon, the legendary Beatle who admired and was inspired by Robinson’s artistry.

This candid revelation adds a poignant new chapter to the story of two musical icons whose paths crossed during a transformative era in music.

 

Growing up in Detroit’s North End, young Smokey was immersed in a rich musical environment filled with gospel, doo-wop, and early R&B sounds.

Influenced by groups like Nolan Strong and the Diablos, his passion for music blossomed early.

His nickname “Smokey” came from a beloved uncle, and it stuck with him throughout his life, becoming a brand synonymous with soul and excellence.

 

In the mid-1950s, Robinson formed a vocal group initially called the Five Chimes, which evolved into the Matadors and finally the Miracles.

His meeting with a young songwriter named Barry Gordy Jr.proved pivotal.

Gordy recognized Robinson’s lyrical and melodic talents, and together they laid the foundation for Motown Records in 1959.

This Detroit-based label would soon become an international hit-making powerhouse, with Robinson as both a frontman and a creative force behind the scenes.

Smokey Robinson | Rochester International Jazz Festival

The Miracles scored a string of timeless hits, including “Shop Around,” Motown’s first million-selling single, “You’ve Really Got a Hold on Me,” “The Tracks of My Tears,” “Ooo Baby Baby,” and “The Tears of a Clown.

” Beyond his own group, Robinson’s songwriting prowess propelled the careers of many Motown artists.

He penned classics like “My Guy” for Mary Wells, “My Girl” for The Temptations, and “Ain’t That Peculiar” for Marvin Gaye, blending poetic imagery with emotional depth that defined the Motown sound.

 

Robinson’s influence extended beyond music. As Motown’s vice president for over two decades, he helped shape the label’s artistic direction during its golden era.

His gentle leadership and perfectionism made him a mentor and role model for younger artists navigating the complexities of the music industry.

 

After years of relentless touring, Robinson retired from the Miracles in 1972 to focus on family and executive duties.

However, his passion for performing led to a solo career marked by hits such as “Cruisin,” “Being with You,” and “Just to See Her,” showcasing his unmistakable falsetto and romantic lyricism.

Despite shifts in musical trends, Robinson adapted his style while maintaining the emotional honesty that defined his work.

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His 1973 self-titled album “Smokey” marked a turning point, introducing him as an independent artist.

Songs like “Sweet Harmony” and “Baby Come Close” demonstrated his enduring gift for melody and storytelling.

Though his follow-up album “Pure Smokey” (1974) did not achieve commercial success, Robinson persevered, balancing his executive role at Motown with his creative pursuits.

 

Robinson’s personal life was marked by both joy and turmoil. In 1959, he married Claudette Rogers, a fellow Miracles member, forming a deep creative and personal partnership.

Together, they had two children, Barry and Tama, both carrying names honoring Motown’s legacy.

However, behind the scenes, Robinson struggled with infidelity, including a notable affair with Motown star Diana Ross. These challenges ultimately led to their divorce in 1986.

 

Despite these difficulties, Robinson’s resilience shone through.

He later remarried Francis Gladney in 2002, finding stability and companionship.

The couple also embarked on a business venture, owning a winery in Pittsburgh, blending Robinson’s artistic spirit with entrepreneurship.

Smokey Robinson: 'I feel as good as I felt when I was 40' - Los Angeles  Times

For decades, Robinson remained gracious yet private about his relationship with John Lennon.

Now, at 85, he has chosen to speak openly about the mutual admiration and influence shared between them.

Lennon, a founding member of The Beatles, was deeply inspired by Robinson’s melodic sensibility and lyrical style.

The Beatles, especially Lennon and Paul McCartney, absorbed American rhythm and blues, including Motown’s sounds, which shaped their early music.

 

When Lennon and Robinson met during the height of Beatlemania, Lennon expressed genuine admiration for Robinson’s work, particularly songs like “You’ve Really Got a Hold on Me,” which Lennon even recorded with The Beatles.

Lennon’s respect was more than fanfare; it reflected a profound recognition of Robinson’s storytelling craft through melody.

 

Robinson recalls Lennon’s charm, wit, and passion for music, describing him as a student of the craft who listened, learned, and contributed uniquely to the music world.

Though Robinson rarely spoke about Lennon publicly—partly out of humility and partly due to the sadness following Lennon’s tragic death in 1980—he now feels a responsibility to share their story.

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Smokey Robinson’s legacy is vast and multifaceted. Inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1987 and the Songwriters Hall of Fame, recipient of the Grammy Legend Award, Kennedy Center Honors, and the Library of Congress Gershwin Prize for Popular Song, Robinson’s contributions to music are widely celebrated.

 

More than awards, his true legacy lies in the timeless quality of his music—songs that continue to evoke emotion, inspire artists across genres, and bring comfort to listeners worldwide.

His ability to bridge cultural and musical divides, as exemplified by his connection with Lennon, underscores music’s power to unite.

 

Even in his 80s, Robinson continues to perform and create, defying expectations for veteran artists.

His recent projects include albums celebrating diverse styles and collaborations with artists from multiple generations, proving his enduring relevance.

 

At 85, Smokey Robinson’s decision to finally speak openly about John Lennon adds a heartfelt dimension to the history of popular music.

Their brief but meaningful connection symbolizes the cross-pollination of musical ideas that defined the 20th century.

Robinson’s reflections remind us that behind the fame and achievements lie human stories of admiration, friendship, and influence.

 

As Robinson continues to share his music and stories, he offers a powerful example of resilience, humility, and passion.

His journey—from Detroit’s North End to global stages, from Motown’s golden era to solo stardom, and from private struggles to public triumphs—stands as a testament to the enduring power of music and the bonds it creates across time and space.

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