SMOKEY ROBINSON.
EQC I-5 Showroom
7 p.m.
February 14
Given his legendary status in pop culture and his ever-personable nature, it’s no surprise that Smokey Robinson is not only still recording quality music as he celebrates more than 50 years in the music industry, but attracting top-notch talent to collaborate with as well.
Hence, a much beloved Smokey Robinson fully intends to continue this wonderfully weaved music legacy with the sultry-sounding “Time Flies When You’re Having Fun,” released August 2009.
“The title of this CD depicts my life because I love my life,” Smokey Robinson said. “I love the fact that I’m extremely blessed, because I get a chance to live a life that I love. I get a chance to do a craft that I love. I get a chance to do a job that I love. When your job is something that you absolutely love, that’s a blessing. I have never taken that for granted. I don’t trip on ‘Smokey Robinson.’ You talk about 50 years going by overnight? That’s exactly what has happened.”
The Detroit native first joined forces with Berry Gordy, Jr., founder of the legendary record label Motown, in the late 1950s.
Smokey Robinson first rose to fame as a member of the Miracles. The group’s 1960 hit “Shop Around” did much to establish Motown as a major player in American popular music. The group placed 25 songs in the Top 40 during the decade, including classics such as “I Second That Emotion” and “Going To A Go-Go.” In 1970 they released one of their more popular tunes, “The Tears Of A Clown.”
Smokey Robinson wrote many songs for other Motown acts. Mary Wells had a big hit in 1964 with a song he wrote, “My Guy.” He was a primary songwriter for the Temptations, and penned such hits as “My Girl” and “Get Ready.”
He left the Miracles in 1972 to pursue a solo career. “Cruisin’” and “Being With You” were among his bigger hits.
Smokey Robinson has been the recipient of a Grammy (for 1987’s “Just To See Her”), and was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1988. In 1991 he received the Soul Train Music Award for Career Achievement, and in 1999 the Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award. He is also a rare double-honoree of a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame – as a solo artist and member of the Miracles.
Smokey Robinson performs at the Emerald Queen Casino’s I-5 Showroom at 7 p.m., Feb. 14. Tickets range from $50 to $100. Visit http://www.emeraldqueen.com for tickets or call the box office at (888) 831-7655.
