Early Life and Education of Smokey Robinson: A Complete Timeline

Discover the defining moments in the early life of Smokey Robinson. From birth to education, explore key events.

Smokey Robinson is a highly influential American R&B and soul singer, songwriter, and record producer. Best known as the founder and frontman of the Motown group The Miracles, he served as their chief songwriter and producer from their formation in 1955 until 1972. He briefly retired to focus on his executive role at Motown Records. Robinson resumed his music career as a solo artist the following year, and he ultimately departed from Motown in 1999. His work has left an indelible mark on American popular music.

Sections (5)

Full Timeline Early Life & Education Career & Achievements Success & Recognition Legacy & Impact

February 19, 1940: Smokey Robinson Born

On February 19, 1940, William "Smokey" Robinson Jr. was born. He would become a singer, songwriter, record producer, and record executive.

Others born on this day/year

1955: Formation of The Five Chimes

In 1955, Smokey Robinson began his music career with the formation of The Five Chimes, a pioneering Motown vocal group that would later be known as The Miracles.

January 1959: College Enrollment

In January 1959, Robinson started college classes studying electrical engineering, but he dropped out after two months.

1959: Marriage to Claudette Rogers

In 1959, Smokey Robinson married Claudette Rogers, a fellow member of The Miracles.

1968: Birth of Son, Berry Robinson

In 1968, Smokey Robinson and Claudette Rogers had a son named Berry Robinson, after Berry Gordy.

1969: Consideration of Retirement

In 1969, Smokey Robinson considered retiring from touring to focus on family and his role as Motown's vice president, but the success of "Tears of a Clown" delayed his departure.

1971: Birth of Daughter, Tamla Robinson

In 1971, Smokey Robinson and Claudette Rogers had a daughter named Tamla Robinson, after the Tamla label.

July 1972: Final Performance with The Miracles

In July 1972, Smokey Robinson gave his last performance with The Miracles in Washington, D.C., marking the end of an era.

1972: Retirement from The Miracles

In 1972, Smokey Robinson retired from The Miracles to focus on his role as vice president at Motown Records, marking a shift in his career.

1972: Stopped Eating Red Meat

In 1972, Smokey Robinson stopped eating red meat, indicating a change in his lifestyle.

1974: Separation and Extramarital Affair

In 1974, Smokey Robinson and Claudette Rogers separated, and Robinson engaged in an extramarital affair that inspired the song "The Agony & The Ecstasy".

1976: George Harrison's Tribute

In 1976, George Harrison featured "Pure Smokey" on his album Thirty Three & 1/3 as a tribute to Smokey Robinson, showcasing Robinson's influence on other artists.