What is the best Smokey Robinson album to start with?

The best album to start with is "A Quiet Storm" (1975). It's the most representative of what makes Smokey Robinson worth hearing.

What are the best Smokey Robinson albums?

The essential Smokey Robinson albums include "Make It Happen" (1967), "Smokey" (1973), "Pure Smokey" (1974), "A Quiet Storm" (1975) and "Smokey's Family Robinson" (1976).

How many albums does Smokey Robinson have?

Smokey Robinson has 35 releases in their discography, including 27 albums.

Photo: Dwight McCann / Chumash Casino Resort / www.DwightMcCann.com · CC BY-SA 2.5

Smokey Robinson

Q: Who is Smokey Robinson for?

If you're into soul, Smokey Robinson is worth your time. Robinson’s music unfolds through smooth melodies and rhythmic grooves that ebb gently yet powerfully, inviting listeners to sway along with the warmth of his voice.

Robinson’s music unfolds through smooth melodies and rhythmic grooves that ebb gently yet powerfully, inviting listeners to sway along with the warmth of his voice.

soul

United States

Read about Smokey Robinson on Bookshop

Start here

The album

A Quiet Storm (1975)

Presents a cohesive blend of smooth melodies and rhythmic grooves, showcasing Robinson's signature sound and emotional delivery.

The song

“Being with You”

Features an engaging melody and heartfelt vocals, effectively introducing Robinson's style to new listeners.

See the full guide

Songs to start with

If you'd rather pick a song than an album.

1

"Theme From Big Time" — from Big Time – Original Music Score from the Motion Picture (1977)

establishes the sonic palette early
2

"The Tracks of My Tears" — from Smokey & Friends (2014)

accessible entry with immediate hook
3

"Tell Me Tomorrow" — from Yes It's You Lady (1982)

establishes the sonic palette early
4

"The Soulful Shack" — from Make It Happen (1967)

establishes the sonic palette early
5

"Vitamin U" — from Deep in My Soul (1977)

accessible entry with immediate hook
6

"Gasms" — from Gasms (2023)

establishes the sonic palette early

About Smokey Robinson

Smokey Robinson matters as a pivotal figure in the evolution of soul music, whose influence reaches beyond his own recordings into the very fabric of popular music.

His ability to craft songs that resonate emotionally has set a standard in songwriting, shaping how artists express love, heartbreak, and the complexities of human relationships.

His ability to craft songs that resonate emotionally has set a standard in songwriting, shaping how artists express love, heartbreak, and the complexities of human relationships. His work not only defined the Motown sound but also helped establish the archetype for what romantic ballads could achieve in terms of emotional depth and universal appeal. Robinson's approach combines a smooth vocal style with intricate melodic structures, showcasing a knack for blending catchy hooks with sophisticated lyrical narratives. He often employs an understated yet compelling vocal delivery that draws listeners into his world, making each song feel like a personal conversation. This balance of accessibility and artistry has allowed his music to transcend generations, resonating with audiences who seek both comfort and connection in sound. Lyrically, Robinson often explores themes of love and longing with an intimate touch, weaving stories that convey vulnerability and sincerity. His writing is characterized by a warm, conversational tone that invites listeners to reflect on their own experiences while embracing a sense of nostalgia. The interplay between heartfelt storytelling and impressionistic imagery creates an emotional landscape where every note feels infused with genuine feeling.

27 studio albums· 35 total releases· 6 decades· United States