Smokey Robinson Photography

Singer/songwriter/producer Smokey Robinson is synonymous with the Motown label—not only as an artist but also as a one-time record executive. As leader of The Miracles from 1955 through 1972, his velvety vocals graced such mega-hits as “Shop Around,” “You’ve Really Got a Hold on Me,” “Going to a Go-Go,” “The Tracks of My Tears,” and many more.

When it came to writing for other artists, Robinson’s rich arsenal included “Get Ready” and “My Girl” for The Temptations, “My Guy” for Mary Wells and “Ain’t That Peculiar” for Marvin Gaye (to name just a few). Saving some of his best lyrics for his own delivery, he scored several solo smashes, most notably, “Cruisin’,” “Being with You,” and “Just to See Her” throughout the ’70s and ’80s.

Robinson was inducted to the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1987 and continues a steady pace of recording and touring through today. His 2014 release Smokey & Friends features artists as diverse as Aerosmith’s Steven Tyler, James Taylor, Mary J. Blige, and John Legend, further demonstrating his vast influence.