All About Smokey Robinson's Height, Facts, And So Much More
There's a lot of curiosity about famous people, isn't there? People often wonder about things like their personal stories, their careers, and sometimes, even their physical attributes. When it comes to a true music legend like Smokey Robinson, it's pretty natural for folks to want to know every little detail. He's a person who has given us so many wonderful songs, so much amazing music, and, in a way, shaped the sound of an entire generation.
So, we're going to take a good look at all of it. We're talking about his height, which is a fact many people ask about, and then we'll get into a whole lot more. This article will cover the entire scope of his amazing life and career, giving you the whole amount of information you might be looking for. We'll explore the things that make him such a beloved figure in music, really covering every person or thing in a group of facts about him.
You know, it's almost like peeling back the layers of a truly great story. We'll touch on his early days, his incredible impact on the music scene, and some of the personal details that help paint a complete picture of this very influential artist. Get ready to learn quite a bit about the man behind those timeless melodies, because there's a lot to share.
Table of Contents
- Biography: The Beginnings of a Legend
- Personal Details and Bio Data
- The Question of Height, and More
- A Career Like No Other: The Miracles and Beyond
- The Songwriting Genius
- Smokey Robinson's Enduring Legacy
- Frequently Asked Questions About Smokey Robinson
Biography: The Beginnings of a Legend
William "Smokey" Robinson Jr. came into the world in Detroit, Michigan, back in 1940. His early life was pretty much like many others growing up in that city, but he had a special gift for music, which is that. From a young age, he showed a real talent for singing and writing songs. Detroit, you see, was a hotbed for music at that time, especially with the rise of what would become Motown. This environment really helped shape his musical journey, giving him the perfect place to start.
He put together a singing group called The Five Chimes in 1955, and this group later became The Matadors, then The Miracles. This was a pivotal moment, actually, for him and for music history. They started performing around Detroit, working hard to get noticed. It wasn't long before their unique sound, with Smokey's smooth voice and clever songwriting, began to catch people's attention. This early period was a crucial step in setting the stage for everything that came after, really.
Meeting Berry Gordy Jr. was a turning point, you know? Gordy was just starting Motown Records, and he saw something truly special in Smokey and The Miracles. This meeting led to a partnership that would change music forever. Smokey became not just a performer but also a key player behind the scenes at Motown, a role that was, in some respects, just as important as his singing. He helped shape the sound of the label, contributing to its success in countless ways.
Personal Details and Bio Data
Here's a quick look at some key details about Smokey Robinson, just a little bit of information to help you get the picture.
| Full Name | William Robinson Jr. |
| Known As | Smokey Robinson |
| Date of Birth | February 19, 1940 |
| Place of Birth | Detroit, Michigan, U.S. |
| Occupation | Singer, Songwriter, Record Producer, Record Executive |
| Genre(s) | R&B, Soul, Pop |
| Years Active | 1955–present |
| Spouse(s) | Claudette Rogers (m. 1959; div. 1986), Frances Gladney (m. 2004) |
| Children | 2 (from first marriage) |
The Question of Height, and More
One of the most common questions people type into search engines about Smokey Robinson is about his height. It's funny, isn't it, how certain facts become popular search queries? So, to address this directly, Smokey Robinson is often listed as being around 5 feet 10 inches tall. This measurement is a pretty standard height for a man, and it's something that often comes up when fans talk about him, very often.
You know, stage presence can sometimes make people seem taller or shorter than they actually are. Performers often have a way of filling a space, regardless of their physical stature. Smokey, with his smooth moves and captivating voice, always commanded attention on stage. His presence was, and still is, quite powerful, making his actual height perhaps less of a focal point than his artistry. It's like your focus naturally goes to his singing and his whole vibe.
The "more" part of the height question is really about the whole person. It's about how someone's physical characteristics are just a tiny piece of who they are. What truly defines Smokey Robinson isn't a number on a measuring tape, but rather the vast collection of music he's given the world. His contributions to songwriting, his distinctive vocal style, and his role in building Motown are the things that really stand out, you know, much more than how tall he might be.
It's interesting how public perception works. Sometimes, people have a certain idea of a celebrity based on their stage persona or how they appear in videos. But the actual facts, like a person's height, are often pretty straightforward. For Smokey, that 5'10" figure is a fact, but it's just one piece of the puzzle. The bigger picture is his incredible talent and the impact he's had on so many lives through his songs, truly.
So, while the height question is a popular one, it's just the beginning of what makes Smokey Robinson such a fascinating person. We're talking about a man who has lived a very full life in music, always creating, always performing. His physical presence is part of his overall image, sure, but his artistic presence is what truly endures. It's what people remember and love about him, quite honestly.
A Career Like No Other: The Miracles and Beyond
The Miracles, with Smokey at the front, became one of Motown's earliest and most successful groups. They had a string of hits that defined the Motown sound, things like "Shop Around," "You've Really Got a Hold on Me," and "Tears of a Clown." These songs weren't just popular; they were incredibly well-crafted, showing off Smokey's unique way with words and melodies. Their music had a certain feel, a mix of pop and soul that was very appealing, you know.
Smokey's voice was a big part of their appeal, too it's almost. His smooth, gentle tenor was instantly recognizable. It had a way of conveying deep emotion without being overly dramatic. This vocal style, combined with the group's tight harmonies and catchy arrangements, made them a powerhouse act. They toured constantly, bringing their music to fans all over the place. It was a busy time for them, as a matter of fact.
Even after leaving The Miracles in the early 1970s to pursue a solo career, Smokey continued to produce hit after hit. Songs like "Cruisin'" and "Being with You" showed that his magic wasn't tied to the group; it was all his own. His solo work allowed him to explore different musical ideas, but he always kept that signature Smokey sound. He remained a consistent presence on the music charts, which is pretty amazing when you think about it.
Beyond his performing, Smokey was also a very important executive at Motown Records. He served as Vice President of the company for many years, helping to guide its direction and discover new talent. This role meant he had a hand in shaping the careers of other Motown stars, which is that. He was involved in so many aspects of the business, showing his sharp mind for more than just music creation. It's a testament to his wide range of abilities, truly.
His influence spread far and wide, touching every part of the Motown machine. He wasn't just a face on an album cover; he was a driving force behind the scenes. This dual role as both an artist and an executive is something that really sets him apart from many other musicians. It shows his deep commitment to the music industry as a whole, and his desire to see it grow and thrive. He was, in a way, a true architect of the Motown sound.
The Songwriting Genius
Smokey Robinson is widely considered one of the greatest songwriters of all time, and for good reason. His ability to craft lyrics that told compelling stories, often about love and relationships, was simply unmatched. He had a knack for finding just the right words to express universal feelings, which is that. His songs were relatable, making them resonate with people from all walks of life. He really understood the human heart, it seems.
He wrote hits not just for The Miracles and himself, but for a whole host of other Motown artists. Think about songs like "My Girl" for The Temptations, "My Guy" for Mary Wells, and "The Way You Do the Things You Do" for The Temptations again. These are iconic songs, and they all came from Smokey's pen. His songwriting was a huge part of Motown's success, giving the label a steady stream of chart-topping tunes, very consistently.
His songwriting process was often described as very intuitive. He would hear a melody in his head or come up with a clever phrase, and then build an entire song around it. He was a master of metaphor and imagery, using simple yet powerful language to paint vivid pictures in the listener's mind. It's a skill that's hard to teach, you know, that natural gift for storytelling through song. He just had it, pure and simple.
The depth of his catalog is astonishing. He wrote hundreds of songs, many of which became classics. His work has been covered by countless artists across different genres, showing the timeless appeal of his compositions. A song he wrote decades ago can still feel fresh and relevant today, which is pretty remarkable. It speaks to the enduring quality of his writing, something that truly stands the test of time.
He had a way of making complex emotions feel simple and understandable in his songs. Whether it was the joy of new love or the pain of a breakup, he captured it with honesty and grace. This ability to connect with listeners on a deep emotional level is a hallmark of his songwriting. It's why his songs continue to be loved by generations, and why he's earned his place among the legends. He really is a master wordsmith, you know.
Smokey Robinson's Enduring Legacy
Smokey Robinson's impact on music goes far beyond his own recordings. He helped define the Motown sound, a style that blended soul, pop, R&B, and gospel into something truly unique. This sound influenced countless artists and changed the landscape of popular music. He was a pioneer, in a way, helping to break down barriers and bring Black music to a wider audience. His work paved the way for so many others, you know.
His induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame as a solo artist in 1987, and then again with The Miracles in 2012, speaks volumes about his importance. He's also received numerous other awards and honors throughout his career, including the Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award. These accolades are a clear recognition of his immense contributions to music. He's truly earned every single one of them, quite frankly.
Even today, at his age, Smokey Robinson continues to perform and create music. His voice, while perhaps a little different, still carries that unmistakable quality that fans adore. He remains a beloved figure, a living legend who connects with audiences through his timeless songs. It's inspiring to see someone maintain such passion for their craft over so many decades, really.
His influence can be heard in the work of contemporary artists, and his songs are still played regularly on the radio and streamed online. He's a constant presence in the fabric of popular culture. The stories he told, the emotions he expressed, and the melodies he crafted are all part of a rich musical heritage that he helped build. It's a legacy that will, in some respects, live on for a very long time.
The term "all" really applies to his legacy. He gave his all to music, influencing every aspect of it, from songwriting to performance to business. He truly embodies the idea of a comprehensive artist, someone who touched every part of the industry. His body of work is, in a way, a complete guide to classic American soul music, covering the whole amount of what makes it great. Learn more about Smokey Robinson on our site, and link to this page explore his amazing music.
Frequently Asked Questions About Smokey Robinson
How tall is Smokey Robinson?
Smokey Robinson is generally listed as being about 5 feet 10 inches tall. This is a common height for a man, and it's a fact that many people look up when they're curious about him. His stage presence, though, often made him seem larger than life, regardless of his actual physical size. It's interesting how perception works, isn't it?
What is Smokey Robinson's real name?
His real name is William Robinson Jr. The nickname "Smokey" came from an uncle when he was a young child, and it just stuck. It's a pretty famous nickname now, obviously, almost more recognized than his given name. It's a bit like how some artists are known by their stage names more than anything else, you know.
When did Smokey Robinson start his career?
Smokey Robinson began his career in music way back in 1955. That's when he formed his first group, which would eventually become The Miracles. So, he's been making music and contributing to the industry for a very, very long time. It's an incredibly long and successful run, which is that, a true testament to his passion and talent. You can find more details about his early days and career beginnings on a well-known biographical source.
A temptress in the house - All Woman
All The Queen's Men Season 3 Episode 7 - video Dailymotion
How to Complete All Fables in The Sims 4 Enchanted by Nature
