Let me tell you about a true music icon—Smokey Robinson. This legendary artist isn’t just resting on his laurels; he’s still going strong after decades in the biz! Smokey, the man behind timeless hits like “Being With You,” has been lighting up the charts since the early ‘60s when he joined Motown. And guess what? His net worth reflects just how impactful his career has been. Keep reading to learn all about his earnings and why this guy is still making waves today.Let’s dive into the details, shall we?
The Numbers Behind Smokey Robinson’s Success
Smokey Robinson, whose real name is William Robinson Jr., has amassed a staggering net worth of around $150 million, according to Celebrity Net Worth. Born in 1940, Smokey started his musical journey with a group called The Miracles. Now, here’s the thing about Smokey—he wasn’t just some guy in a band; he was the creative force behind much of what made Motown such a powerhouse.
When The Miracles signed with Berry Gordy’s Motown (originally Tamla Records), they hit the ground running with their 1960 single, “Shop Around.” This song wasn’t just a hit—it was a phenomenon. It shot straight to the top of the Billboard R&B chart, cementing Smokey’s place in music history. But Smokey didn’t stop there. During his time with The Miracles, he also wrote and produced tracks for other Motown legends like Marvin Gaye and Mary Wells. That’s the kind of influence he had on the industry.
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Smokey Goes Solo: A New Chapter in His Career
By 1972, Smokey was ready to spread his wings and embark on a solo career. This move marked the beginning of another incredible chapter in his life. After leaving The Miracles, Smokey released a string of unforgettable hits that kept his fans glued to their radios. Songs like “Cruisin’,” “Baby That’s Backatcha,” and “Just to See Her” became staples in the world of soul and R&B music.
But Smokey wasn’t done contributing to Motown. Before the company was sold to MCA in 1988, he even served as the vice president of the label. That’s right—he wasn’t just an artist; he was a key player in shaping the direction of one of the most influential record labels of all time.
Smokey’s relationship with Motown founder Berry Gordy is worth mentioning too. The two formed a bond that transcended business. Berry once said, “He was the first artist, writer, and producer at Motown. He wrote the company anthem that kept our mission focused. That’s why we called him the ‘Soul of Motown.’ And let me tell you, he’s still my best friend.”
Still Making Waves at 83
Fast forward to today, and Smokey Robinson continues to inspire. In April 2023, he released a new album titled Gasms, proving that age is just a number. Married to Frances Gladney since 2002, Smokey shows no signs of slowing down. He hinted at more music in the works, which has fans eagerly awaiting his next move.
So how does Smokey stay so creative after all these years? It’s simple, really. He told ABC in an interview earlier this year, “If I’m out and an idea strikes me, I call my voicemail. You’ve got to capture those moments because they’re gold. Don’t let them slip away.”
