The Whole Guide To Smokey Robinson's Early Life: When Was He Born?

When was Smokey Robinson born? Smokey Robinson was born on February 19, 1940 in Detroit, Michigan.

Smokey Robinson is an American singer, songwriter, record producer, and former record executive director. He was the lead singer and main songwriter for the Miracles, a vocal group that became one of the most successful acts of the Motown era.

Robinson's songs have been covered by a wide range of artists, including The Beatles, The Rolling Stones, and Bob Dylan. He has also written and produced songs for other artists, including Marvin Gaye, The Temptations, and Stevie Wonder.

Robinson is a Grammy Award winner and a member of the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. He is considered one of the most influential figures in popular music.

When Was Smokey Robinson Born?

Smokey Robinson was born on February 19, 1940 in Detroit, Michigan. He is an American singer, songwriter, record producer, and former record executive director. He was the lead singer and main songwriter for the Miracles, a vocal group that became one of the most successful acts of the Motown era.

• Birth Date: February 19, 1940
• Birth Place: Detroit, Michigan
• Occupation: Singer, songwriter, record producer, record executive director
• Genre: R&B, soul
• Years Active: 1955-present
• Associated Acts: The Miracles, The Temptations, Stevie Wonder
• Awards: Grammy Award, Rock and Roll Hall of Fame

Smokey Robinson is one of the most influential figures in popular music. His songs have been covered by a wide range of artists, including The Beatles, The Rolling Stones, and Bob Dylan. He has also written and produced songs for other artists, including Marvin Gaye, The Temptations, and Stevie Wonder.

Birth Date

The question "when was Smokey Robinson born" can be answered by examining the specific date of his birth, which is February 19, 1940. This date is significant because it marks the beginning of Smokey Robinson's life and sets the timeline for his subsequent accomplishments as a singer, songwriter, record producer, and record executive director.

The date of birth is an essential piece of information when discussing an individual's life and career. It provides a foundation for understanding their age, generation, and the context of their work. In Smokey Robinson's case, knowing his birth date allows us to appreciate his longevity in the music industry and his contributions to popular culture over several decades.

Furthermore, the birth date can serve as a reference point for examining the historical and cultural backdrop of Smokey Robinson's life and work. By placing him in the context of his time, we can better understand the influences that shaped his music and the impact he had on society.

Birth Place

The connection between "Birth Place: Detroit, Michigan" and "when was Smokey Robinson born" lies in the fact that Detroit played a pivotal role in shaping Smokey Robinson's musical journey and the development of his artistry.

Detroit was a hotbed for music in the mid-20th century, particularly for genres such as R&B, soul, and Motown. The city's vibrant music scene provided a fertile ground for young musicians to hone their skills, collaborate with others, and gain recognition. Smokey Robinson was one of many talented artists who emerged from Detroit during this era.

Born and raised in Detroit, Smokey Robinson was exposed to a diverse range of musical influences from an early age. He began singing in church and formed his first vocal group, The Five Chimes, while still in high school. The group later evolved into The Miracles, which became one of the most successful acts of the Motown era.

Detroit's music industry also provided Smokey Robinson with opportunities to develop his songwriting and production skills. He worked closely with other Detroit-based musicians, including Berry Gordy, the founder of Motown Records. Together, they crafted some of the most iconic songs of the 1960s and 1970s.

In conclusion, the connection between "Birth Place: Detroit, Michigan" and "when was Smokey Robinson born" is significant because Detroit played a crucial role in fostering Smokey Robinson's musical talent and providing him with the platform to achieve success.

Occupation

The connection between "Occupation: Singer, songwriter, record producer, record executive director" and "when was Smokey Robinson born" lies in the fact that Smokey Robinson's occupation has been central to his life and legacy. His birth in 1940 set the stage for his remarkable career in music, which has spanned over six decades.

• Singer
  

  As a singer, Smokey Robinson has captivated audiences with his smooth vocals and soulful delivery. His distinctive voice has become synonymous with some of the most iconic songs of the Motown era, including "My Girl," "Tears of a Clown," and "I Second That Emotion."

• Songwriter
  

  Smokey Robinson is not only a gifted singer but also a prolific songwriter. He has written or co-written over 4,000 songs, many of which have become classics. His songs have been recorded by a wide range of artists, including The Beatles, The Rolling Stones, and Marvin Gaye.

• Record producer
  

  Smokey Robinson has also had a successful career as a record producer. He has produced albums for many of Motown's biggest stars, including The Temptations, The Supremes, and Stevie Wonder. His production work is known for its signature sound, which combines elements of R&B, soul, and pop.

• Record executive director
  

  In addition to his work as a singer, songwriter, and producer, Smokey Robinson also served as the record executive director of Motown Records from 1961 to 1972. During his tenure, he played a key role in the development of the Motown sound and the careers of many of the label's biggest stars.

Smokey Robinson's occupation has been an integral part of his life and has shaped his identity as an artist. His contributions to music as a singer, songwriter, record producer, and record executive director have left an indelible mark on popular culture.

Genre

Smokey Robinson's musical journey has been closely intertwined with the genres of R&B and soul. His birth in 1940 coincided with the rise of these genres, which would come to define his sound and influence his career.

• Roots and Influences
  

  R&B and soul music have their roots in African-American musical traditions, including gospel, blues, and jazz. Smokey Robinson was exposed to these influences from an early age, and they played a formative role in shaping his musical style.

• The Motown Sound
  

  Smokey Robinson was a key figure in the development of the Motown sound, which blended elements of R&B, soul, and pop. As a member of The Miracles and later as a solo artist, Robinson's songs helped to define the Motown sound and make it one of the most popular and influential musical genres of the 1960s and 1970s.

• Lyrical Themes
  

  Smokey Robinson's songs often explored themes of love, relationships, and social issues. His lyrics were known for their emotional depth and poetic quality, and they resonated with audiences around the world.

• Musical Style
  

  Smokey Robinson's musical style was characterized by his smooth vocals, soulful melodies, and sophisticated harmonies. He was also a gifted songwriter, and his songs have been covered by a wide range of artists, including The Beatles, The Rolling Stones, and Marvin Gaye.

Smokey Robinson's contributions to R&B and soul music have been immense. His songs have touched the lives of millions of people around the world, and he is considered one of the most influential figures in popular music history.

Years Active

The connection between "Years Active: 1955-present" and "when was Smokey Robinson born" lies in the remarkable longevity of Smokey Robinson's career in the music industry. His birth in 1940 marked the beginning of a musical journey that has spanned over six decades, leaving an indelible mark on popular culture.

Smokey Robinson began his musical career at a young age, forming his first vocal group, The Five Chimes, while still in high school. The group later evolved into The Miracles, which became one of the most successful acts of the Motown era. Robinson's songwriting and production skills also played a pivotal role in the development of the Motown sound.

Throughout his career, Smokey Robinson has remained an active and influential figure in the music industry. He has released numerous solo albums and singles, and his songs have been covered by a wide range of artists, including The Beatles, The Rolling Stones, and Marvin Gaye. Robinson has also been involved in various other projects, including film and television production, and he continues to perform live.

Smokey Robinson's "Years Active: 1955-present" is a testament to his enduring talent and dedication to music. His longevity in the industry is a rare achievement, and it is a reflection of his ability to adapt to changing musical trends while remaining true to his own unique style.

The understanding of the connection between "Years Active: 1955-present" and "when was Smokey Robinson born" provides valuable insights into the nature of a successful and enduring career in the music industry. It highlights the importance of hard work, dedication, and the ability to constantly evolve and reinvent oneself.

Associated Acts

The connection between "Associated Acts: The Miracles, The Temptations, Stevie Wonder" and "when was Smokey Robinson born" lies in the significant role that these acts played in Smokey Robinson's musical journey and career. His birth in 1940 marked the beginning of a musical journey that would be intertwined with these legendary groups and artists.

Smokey Robinson's association with The Miracles began in the mid-1950s when he formed the group with several friends. The Miracles became one of the most successful vocal groups of the Motown era, and Robinson's songwriting and production skills were instrumental in their success. Songs like "Shop Around," "You've Really Got a Hold on Me," and "Tears of a Clown" became classics, and The Miracles helped to define the Motown sound.

Smokey Robinson's connection to The Temptations and Stevie Wonder also played a significant role in his career. He wrote and produced several hit songs for The Temptations, including "My Girl" and "Ain't Too Proud to Beg," and he collaborated with Stevie Wonder on several projects, including Wonder's classic album "Innervisions."

The association with these acts provided Smokey Robinson with a platform to showcase his talents as a songwriter, producer, and performer. His work with The Miracles, The Temptations, and Stevie Wonder helped to shape the sound of Motown Records and popular music in general.

Understanding the connection between "Associated Acts: The Miracles, The Temptations, Stevie Wonder" and "when was Smokey Robinson born" provides valuable insights into the collaborative nature of the music industry and the importance of building relationships with other artists.

Awards

The connection between "Awards: Grammy Award, Rock and Roll Hall of Fame" and "when was Smokey Robinson born" lies in the recognition and that Smokey Robinson has received throughout his illustrious career. His birth in 1940 marked the beginning of a musical journey that would be filled with accolades and achievements.

• Grammy Awards
  

  Smokey Robinson has won numerous Grammy Awards, including the prestigious Lifetime Achievement Award in 1999. His Grammy wins are a testament to his outstanding contributions to the music industry as a singer, songwriter, and producer.

• Rock and Roll Hall of Fame
  

  Smokey Robinson was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1987. This honor recognizes his significant impact on rock and roll music and his enduring legacy as one of the most influential artists of all time.

These awards serve as a testament to Smokey Robinson's exceptional talent and his lasting impact on the music world. His achievements are a source of inspiration for aspiring musicians and a reminder of the power of music to transcend boundaries and connect people.

FAQs about "When Was Smokey Robinson Born"

This section provides answers to frequently asked questions related to the birthdate and early life of Smokey Robinson.

Question 1: When and where was Smokey Robinson born?

Answer: Smokey Robinson was born on February 19, 1940, in Detroit, Michigan, USA.

Question 2: What is Smokey Robinson's birth name?

Answer: William "Smokey" Robinson Jr.

Question 3: What was the name of Smokey Robinson's first vocal group?

Answer: The Five Chimes

Question 4: When did Smokey Robinson join The Miracles?

Answer: Mid-1950s

Question 5: What was the name of the record label that Smokey Robinson and The Miracles signed with?

Answer: Motown Records

Question 6: What year was Smokey Robinson inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame?

Answer: 1987

In conclusion, Smokey Robinson's birthdate and early life have significantly shaped his journey as a musician and songwriter. His legacy continues to inspire and influence generations of artists and music enthusiasts.

Transition to the next article section: Smokey Robinson's Career and Impact on Popular Music

Conclusion

Smokey Robinson's birth on February 19, 1940, marked the beginning of an extraordinary musical journey that would leave an indelible mark on popular music. His contributions as a singer, songwriter, record producer, and record executive have shaped the sound of R&B and soul music for generations.

Robinson's association with The Miracles, The Temptations, and Stevie Wonder further cemented his status as a musical icon. His numerous awards, including Grammy Awards and induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, stand as a testament to his enduring legacy.