Legendary Motown singer-songwriter Smokey Robinson rocketed to stardom with The Miracles in the late 50’s scoring such hits as “Shop Around”, “You’ve Really Got a Hold on Me”, “Ooo Baby Baby”, “The Tracks of My Tears” and “I Second That Emotion”. After “The Tears of a Clown” became a #1 hit in 1972, he left the group to pursue a solo career. Robinson’s albums were on the whole more thoughtful and mellow than his work with The Miracles as his records of the late 80’s continued to gain popularity and the approval of critics. His 1987 album, One Heartbeat was termed “another winning package of sharp, sophisticated soul” by Rolling Stone. Songs such as “Cruisin’”, “Just to See Her” – a Grammy Award winner – and “Being With You” became both rhythm & blues and pop hits.

His most recent album, Smokey & Friends was released this past August debuting at #12 on the Billboard 200. The album features duets of some of his classic hits with such artists as Elton John, Mary J. Blige, Steven Tyler, John Legend, Sheryl Crow and James Taylor. Coupled with the success he enjoyed with The Miracles and as a major Motown songwriter, Robinson’s solo achievements in the music industry led to his 1986 induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame while in 1989, he was named a Grammy Living Legend. He was then presented with the Kennedy Center Honors Award in 2006. Robinson continues to perform to sold-out audiences throughout North America and will be appearing for one night only at the River Rock Casino Resort on February 13, 2015.