The 'King of Motown': Smokey Robinson
- Rick Johnson
- 1 hour ago
- 1 min read
Smokey Robinson's influence has helped shape many popular artists. The go-to songwriter for many of Motown’s early hits, his credits include songs for Mary Wells, the Temptations, the Marvelettes, and Marvin Gaye. His graceful lyrics led Bob Dylan to call him “America's greatest living poet.” Take a listen to some of his greatest hits.
Shop Around (1960) - The Miracles first chart-topping hit the Billboard magazine R&B singles chart, and also Motown Records' first million-selling record. It was inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame in 2006
You've Really Got A Hold On Me (1962) - The Miracles next Billboard R&B chart-topper.
Ooo Baby Baby (1965) - This Miracles hit reached the Billboard Top Ten (#4).
Tracks Of My Tears (1965) - This Miracles hit peaked at the second position on the Billboard Top 100 and was recorded by other artists over the years because of its lasting popularity.
Being With You (1981) - This song was Smokey's highest pop-charting solo hit and longest #1 single (five weeks).
A Black American (2004) - Smokey Robinson's powerful, thought-provoking, uplifting poetic anthem.
