Smokey Robinson’s Wealth: Music Royalties, Business Ventures & More

What Is Smokey Robinson’s Net Worth? 

Smokey Robinson, an esteemed American R&B and pop singer-songwriter, record producer, and former record executive, boasts a net worth of $150 million. He is widely recognized for his role in shaping the iconic Motown sound, which gained immense popularity from the 1950s through the 1970s. Robinson was a key member of the Miracles, a vocal ensemble that achieved significant success during the Motown era. After leaving the group, he embarked on a prosperous solo career and served as vice president of Motown Records. In 1987, he was honored with induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.

Early Life 

William “Smokey” Robinson Jr. was born on February 19, 1940, in Detroit, Michigan. Growing up in a modest household in the North End of Detroit, he earned the nickname “Smokey” from his uncle Claude, who took him to see cowboy films and affectionately gave him the “cowboy name” of “Smokey Joe.” This name quickly became his identity, and he eventually shortened it to “Smokey.”

During his high school years, Smokey formed a doo-wop group known as the Five Chimes. His passion for music was evident from a young age, as he listened to a diverse array of artists on the radio, including Nolan Strong & the Diablos and Billy Ward and his Dominoes. The doo-wop group later changed its name to the Matadors.

Career 

After an extensive touring period in the late 1950s, the Matadors rebranded themselves as the Miracles. In 1957, Robinson collaborated with songwriter Berry Gordy, who assisted the Miracles in releasing their debut single, “Got a Job.” At that time, Robinson was pursuing a degree in electrical engineering at college, but he chose to leave his studies after the success of this initial single. 

Gordy subsequently established Tamla Records, which would evolve into Motown Records. Following a recording contract with this label, the Miracles launched “Shop Around” in 1960, a hit that sold over a million copies. Throughout the following decade, they produced numerous successful tracks, including “You’ve Really Got a Hold on Me,” “Mickey’s Monkey,” “I Second That Emotion,” “Baby Baby Don’t Cry,” and “The Tears of a Clown.” During this era, Robinson served as the primary singer, songwriter, and producer for the group, leading to their rebranding as Smokey Robinson & the Miracles in 1965. 

In addition to his contributions to the Miracles, Smokey wrote a variety of songs for other Motown artists and produced several tracks. Notable collaborations included work with the Temptations, the Marvelettes, and Marvin Gaye. However, this collaboration diminished when a new team of songwriters joined Motown, coinciding with a trend of artists creating their own original compositions. 

By 1969, Smokey indicated a desire to retire, as the demands of constant touring had taken a toll on him, and he wished to dedicate more time to his family. Shortly thereafter, the group released one of their most acclaimed hits, “Tears of a Clown,” which persuaded Robinson to remain with the group for a few additional years before ultimately departing from the Miracles in 1972.

Robinson’s initial plans to retire from music were short-lived, as he took only a one-year break before embarking on a solo career in 1973. That year marked the release of his first solo album, “Smokey,” followed by “Pure Smokey” in 1974. Despite the musical quality of these albums, they did not achieve significant commercial success, largely due to competition from well-established solo artists like Marvin Gaye and Stevie Wonder.

In 1975, Smokey Robinson made a notable breakthrough as a solo artist with the album “A Quiet Storm,” which featured popular tracks such as “Baby That’s Backatcha” and “Quiet Storm.” Subsequently, he shifted his focus towards his responsibilities as vice president of Motown, which resulted in inadequate promotion for his later solo albums and a diminished commitment to these projects compared to his earlier work.

Robinson experienced a resurgence in 1979 with the hit single “Cruisin,” which climbed into the top ten of the charts. In 1981, he released the successful single “Being with You,” and in 1987, his album “One Heartbeat” produced top-ten hits like “Just to See Her” and “One Heartbeat.” Following Motown’s acquisition by RCA in 1988, he resigned from his vice presidential role to concentrate exclusively on his solo career. Over the ensuing decades, he continued to collaborate with various artists and released numerous singles and albums.

Relationships 

Robinson’s initial marriage was to Claudette Rogers, who was also affiliated with the Miracles. Together, they had two children, and Robinson later fathered a third child with another partner. This led to their divorce in 1986. In 2002, Smokey entered into matrimony with Frances Gladney.

Real Estate 

In 2002, Robinson sold his residence in Encino, Los Angeles, for $2.3 million. Constructed in 1912, this opulent estate encompasses 10,600 square feet of living area, which includes an 800-square-foot private deck. The property spans 1.5 acres and features exquisite English-style gardens. The notable residence changed ownership again in 2017, fetching a price of $8.3 million.

In 2014, it was reported that Smokey was putting another Californian mansion on the market for $7.99 million. This second estate is situated in the prestigious Chatsworth neighborhood of Los Angeles, known for its celebrity residents. The property boasts 9,075 square feet of living space, along with a separate 2,000-square-foot guest house. Initially listed in 2005 for $10.5 million, the residence was re-listed in 2007 for $10 million after difficulties in securing a buyer. The final asking price of $7.99 million in 2014 reflects a significant reduction.

Conclusion for “Smokey Robinson Net Worth”

Smokey Robinson, a legendary figure in the music industry, has built an impressive net worth through his decades-long career as a singer, songwriter, and record producer. As a key player in Motown’s golden era, his contributions to music have not only earned him financial success but also a lasting legacy in the industry.

With continued royalties from his timeless hits, business ventures, and live performances, Smokey Robinson’s wealth reflects both his talent and influence. His journey serves as an inspiration to aspiring artists, proving that dedication and creativity can lead to both artistic and financial success.

FAQs:

Is Smokey Robinson a billionaire?

Smokey Robinson’s net worth is estimated to be $150 million, as reported by Celebrity Net Worth. Born William Robinson Jr. in 1940, the Grammy-winning artist began his musical career with the group The Miracles.

How much does smokey Robinson make per show?

To book Smokey Robinson, the fee typically ranges from $300,000 to $499,000.

What was the Robinson’s big hit?

The title track from his 1981 album, Being With You, reached No. 2 on the Billboard Hot 100, marking the highest position achieved by any of Robinson’s solo works. His 1987 album, One Heartbeat, produced two Top 10 singles, including the title track and “Just to See Her,” and earned him his first Grammy Award for Best Male R&B Performance.

Is smokey still married?

Smokey Robinson is married to Frances Gladney, who is said to have inspired one of his songs, “I Keep Calling,” from his 2023 album, Gasms (as reported by AP News).

Who is the best billionaire in the music?

In comparison, Forbes lists Jay-Z’s net worth at $2.5 billion, Rihanna’s at $1.4 billion, and Taylor Swift’s at $1.1 billion. Notably, two billionaire founders/CEOs, Daniel Ek of Spotify and Klaus-Peter Schulenberg of CTS Eventim, are not included in this list.