Smokey Robinson is a true icon of American music. Robinson’s impact on popular music is unparalleled as the frontman of the legendary Motown group The Miracles and a celebrated solo artist. Throughout his career, he has crafted some of the most beloved songs in the R&B and pop canon.
Who is Smokey Robinson?
William “Smokey” Robinson Jr. was born in Detroit, Michigan, on February 19, 1940. Growing up in a modest household on the city’s North End, the young Robinson earned his famous nickname from his uncle, who gave him the moniker “Smokey Joe” after seeing him in cowboy movies. Over time, the name became “Smokey.”
Even as a teenager, Robinson displayed an extraordinary musical talent. While still in high school, he formed a doo-wop group called the Five Chimes, eventually evolving into the iconic Motown act The Miracles. Through this group, Robinson first connected with Berry Gordy, the founder of the burgeoning Motown Records. This fateful meeting would shape the course of Robinson’s career and the music industry.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | William “Smokey” Robinson Jr. |
| Date of Birth | February 19, 1940 |
| Place of Birth | Detroit, Michigan |
| Nickname Origin | “Smokey Joe” from his uncle |
| Age | 83 years old |
| Height | 5 feet 9 inches (175 cm) |
Age and Physique
Now 83, Smokey Robinson has maintained an impressively youthful appearance throughout his life. Standing at 5’9″ with a lean, graceful build, the singer has managed to defy the aging process, appearing decades younger than his actual age. This timeless quality has only added to his charismatic stage presence and enduring appeal as a performer.
Personal Life and Relationships
Smokey Robinson’s personal life has had its share of ups and downs. His first marriage was to Claudette Rogers, a member of The Miracles. The couple had two children together before divorcing in 1986 after nearly three decades of marriage. Robinson later went on to have a third child with another woman. In 2002, he remarried, tying the knot with Frances Gladney, with whom he remains happily wed to this day.
Net Worth
Smokey Robinson’s extraordinary musical success has translated into tremendous financial wealth. As of 2024, the Motown legend is estimated to have a net worth of $150 million. This staggering figure results from decades of chart-topping hits, lucrative songwriting and production credits, and savvy real estate investments.
Over the years, Robinson has owned several luxurious homes, including a $2.3 million estate in Encino, Los Angeles, that he sold in 2002 and a $7.99 million mansion in the posh Chatsworth neighborhood that he parted ways in 2014. These real estate transactions have only added to his already impressive fortune.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Net Worth | $150 million |
| Major Assets | Real estate investments |
Professional Career
Smokey Robinson’s professional career began in the late 1950s when he and his high school friends formed the vocal group The Miracles. After connecting with Berry Gordy and securing a deal with the nascent Motown Records, the group released its first single, “Got a Job,” in 1957.
Over the next decade, The Miracles would become one of Motown’s most successful acts, recording a string of beloved hits like “Shop Around,” “You’ve Really Got a Hold on Me,” and “The Tears of a Clown.” Throughout this period, Robinson served as the group’s principal songwriter, producer, and lead vocalist, cementing his status as a musical visionary.
In 1972, Robinson decided to leave The Miracles and pursue a solo career. While his initial solo efforts failed to match the commercial success of his work with the group, he eventually bounced back in 1975 with the release of the critically acclaimed album “A Quiet Storm.” This marked the beginning of a prolific solo chapter that would see Robinson continue to churn out hit after hit, including “Cruisin'” and “Being with You.”
Alongside his work as a performer, Robinson also played a crucial role in Motown’s behind-the-scenes operations. In 1961, he was appointed vice president of Motown Records, a position he would hold for nearly three decades until RCA’s acquisition in 1988. In this capacity, he helped oversee the label’s roster of artists and shape the distinctive Motown sound that captivated audiences worldwide.
Investment and Funding
Smokey Robinson’s financial success extends beyond his music career. The singer-songwriter has also demonstrated keen business acumen by investing in various ventures. He has recently launched his skincare product line, further diversifying his income streams and contributing to his staggering $150 million net worth.
Contact Details and Social Network Handles
While Smokey Robinson maintains a relatively low-key public profile these days, fans can still connect with the legendary performer through his official social media channels. He is active on platforms like Instagram (@smokeyrobinsonofficial) and Twitter (@smokeyrobinson), where he shares updates on his latest projects and interacts with his dedicated fanbase.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Official Website | Smokey Robinson Official Website |
| @smokeyrobinsonofficial | |
| @smokeyrobinson |
Conclusion
Smokey Robinson’s story is one of unparalleled musical triumph and enduring cultural influence. From his humble beginnings in Detroit to his lofty status as a Motown icon, the singer-songwriter has left an indelible mark on the landscape of popular music. With a net worth of $150 million and a career spanning over six decades, Smokey Robinson’s legacy is secure as one of the greatest artists of his generation.
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