Early Life and Education of Smokey Robinson: A Complete Timeline

Share: FB Share X Share Reddit Share Reddit Share
By Popular Timelines Editorial Team  · Updated:
Smokey Robinson

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. He achieved fame as the founder and frontman of the Motown vocal group, the Miracles, serving as their chief songwriter and producer from their inception in 1955 until his departure in 1972. During this period, he was pivotal to the Motown sound and the group's success. Following his time with the Miracles, Robinson transitioned to a solo career in 1973 after briefly focusing on his role as vice president at Motown Records. He eventually left Motown in 1999, marking the end of a long and impactful association.

1972: Stopped Eating Red Meat

Since 1972, Smokey Robinson has not eaten red meat.

X (Twitter) Facebook

1974: Separation and Extramarital Affair

In 1974, Smokey and Claudette Robinson separated, during which Smokey had an extramarital affair that inspired the song "The Agony & The Ecstasy".

Loading Video...
X (Twitter) Facebook

1984: Birth of son Trey

In 1984, Smokey Robinson had a son named Trey with a woman other than his wife Claudette.

Others born on this day/year
X (Twitter) Facebook

1986: Divorce Finalized

In 1986, Smokey Robinson's divorce from Claudette Robinson was finalized after he admitted to fathering a child with another woman.

X (Twitter) Facebook

May 2002: Marriage to Frances Gladney

In May 2002, Smokey Robinson married Frances Gladney and they own a home in Pittsburgh that they use as a winery.

X (Twitter) Facebook

May 2006: Honorary Doctorate from Howard University

In May 2006, Howard University conferred on Smokey Robinson the degree of Doctor of Music, honoris causa.

X (Twitter) Facebook

2009: Honorary Doctorate from Berklee College of Music

In 2009, Smokey Robinson received an honorary doctorate degree from Berklee College of Music and gave a commencement speech.

X (Twitter) Facebook
Home | Recently Updated | Most Popular | Birthdays

About Popular Timelines

Discover the past with PopularTimelines.com, your go-to platform for exploring the rich history of famous people, events, places, and more, all presented in an engaging timeline format. Whether you're a history buff or just curious about significant milestones, Popular Timelines provides a visually captivating way to learn and explore. Navigate through detailed timelines that cover everything from historical events to the lives of renowned individuals, offering a comprehensive view of the world's legacy. Stay informed and enlightened with accurate, well-researched content that brings history to life.

Follow Us