Is Where There's Smoke… a good place to start with Smokey Robinson?

Yes, Where There's Smoke… is recommended as a starting point for new Smokey Robinson listeners. Smooth, romantic soul melodies blend effortlessly with Smokey Robinson's signature falsetto and heartfelt lyricism. Released on May 22, 1979, Where There's Smoke… marked Smokey Robinson's return to the solo spotlight after a successful career with The Miracles. This album followed his previous release, A Quiet Storm (1975), establishing his role as a leading figure in the soul genre during the late 1970s.

Who is Where There's Smoke… for?

Where There's Smoke… works well if you're into steady pacing for relaxed listening, heartfelt melodies for romantic moments and smooth vocals for intimate settings.

How many songs are on Where There's Smoke…?

Where There's Smoke… has 7 tracks, running approximately 35 minutes.

Where There's Smoke…

Smokey Robinson · 1979

35 min · 7 tracks · soul

Smooth, romantic soul melodies blend effortlessly with Smokey Robinson's signature falsetto and heartfelt lyricism.

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Top tracks — play these first

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It's a Good Night Start here — establishes the sonic palette early
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Cruisin' — This track showcases Robinson's silky vocals paired with a laid-back groove, epitomizing the essence of romantic soul music and becoming one of his signature songs.
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I Love the Nearness of You — A lush ballad that highlights Robinson's emotive delivery, this track captures the yearning and intimacy that permeates much of his work.
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Get Ready — Robinson breathes new life into this classic, infusing it with his unique style and making it resonate with both old fans and new listeners alike.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

60 /100

Treeline

Higher than 66% of albums we've rated

Smooth melodies and heartfelt lyricism define this soul album, though it doesn't fully stand out in its genre.

What we noticed

The first three tracks establish a mid-tempo groove, while the fourth track introduces a more upbeat rhythm that contrasts with the preceding songs.
Each song features Smokey Robinson's falsetto prominently, often layered with harmonies that enhance the romantic themes.
The final track, 'Cruisin',' stands out with its slower tempo and extended instrumental sections, creating a reflective closing to the album.

Composition 25% of the score: 7/10
Craft 20% of the score: 8/10
Durability 25% of the score: 6/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 7/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 6/10

Influence 4/10

Known within its scene. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

steady pacing for relaxed listening
heartfelt melodies for romantic moments
smooth vocals for intimate settings
for evening unwinding

Maybe skip if you

seeking fast-paced excitement
prefer standalone tracks only

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Breakthrough — Solidified Robinson's status as a solo artist with hit single 'Cruisin''.
Career context: Released on May 22, 1979, Where There's Smoke… marked Smokey Robinson's return to the solo spotlight after a successful career with The Miracles. This album followed his previous release, A Quiet Storm (1975), establishing his role as a leading figure in the soul genre during the late 1970s.
Stylistic neighbors: Marvin Gaye· Al Green· The Temptations