How Smokey Robinson Shaped the Future: A Legacy Timeline

How the contributions of Smokey Robinson continue to shape the world today.

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

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.

February 22, 1983: Star on The Hollywood Walk of Fame

On February 22, 1983, Smokey Robinson received an individual star on The Hollywood Walk of Fame.

1983: Hollywood Walk of Fame Inductee (Solo)

In 1983, Smokey Robinson was inducted into the Hollywood Walk of Fame as a solo artist, recognizing his individual achievements.

1987: Smokey Robinson's controversial solo induction to Rock and Roll Hall of Fame

In 1987, Smokey Robinson was controversially inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.

1987: Induction to the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame

In 1987, Smokey Robinson was inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame.

1988: Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Induction

In 1988, Smokey Robinson was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame as a solo artist, sparking controversy over the exclusion of The Miracles.

1988: Grammy Award and Tribute Song

In 1988, Smokey Robinson won his first Grammy Award for "Just to See Her" and received a tribute song from the UK group ABC, marking a high point in his career.

1989: Induction to the Songwriter's Hall of Fame

In 1989, Smokey Robinson was inducted into the Songwriter's Hall of Fame, recognizing his contributions to music.

1993: Awarded medal at the National Medal of Arts

In 1993, Smokey Robinson was awarded a medal at the National Medal of Arts.

2005: Induction into the Michigan Rock and Roll Legends Hall of Fame

In 2005, Smokey Robinson was voted into the Michigan Rock and Roll Legends Hall of Fame.

December 2006: Kennedy Center Honoree

In December 2006, Smokey Robinson was one of five Kennedy Center honorees.

March 20, 2009: The Miracles honored with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame

On March 20, 2009, The Miracles were honored as a group with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, with Smokey Robinson and other original members present.

2009: Hollywood Walk of Fame Inductee (The Miracles)

In 2009, Smokey Robinson was inducted into the Hollywood Walk of Fame as a member of The Miracles, honoring the group's contributions to music.

2011: Awarded Society of Singers Lifetime Achievement Award

In 2011, Marv Tarplin was awarded the Society of Singers Lifetime Achievement Award.

April 2012: The Miracles' Hall of Fame Induction

In April 2012, The Miracles were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, and Smokey Robinson inducted his former group at the ceremony.

2012: Posthumous Induction of Marv Tarplin to Rock and Roll Hall of Fame

In 2012, Marv Tarplin was posthumously inducted with the rest of the original Miracles, Bobby Rogers, Pete Moore, Ronnie White, and Claudette Robinson, into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.