Smokey Robinson

“We’re very physical creatures, and we worry about how we look sometimes more than our spiritual selves.“

  • Name: Smokey Robinson
  • Born: February 19, 1940
  • From: Detroit, Michigan
  • Occupation: Musician
  • Works:  I Second That Emotion, Crusin’, Tears of a Clown
  • Awards: Kennedy Center Honors (2006), Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award (1999), Grammy Legend Award (1991), BET Lifetime Achievement Award (2015)
  • Fun Fact: His nickname came from his uncle who called him “Smokey Joe” since he loved cowboy movies, and by the age of 12 he dropped the “Joe” part of his name.

William “Smokey” Robinson Jr. started off my listening to groups Nolan Strong & the Diablos and Billy Ward which inspired him to pursue music. He was involved in the band The Miracles and moved on to pursue his own solo career with hits such as “Being with You” and  Crusin’. He also pursued becoming Vice President of Motown Records so that he can make aspiring artists become stars like him. 

I Am Handout

Handout

To download the Handout:

  1. Click on the image
  2. Right-click and select Save Image As…
  3. Print
  4. Write a description on the line and decorate.
  5. Cut out and use for a selfie to share on our social media page.
  6. Download a card and envelope template and write about an idea this leader inspires.
  7. Check out more resources and ways to celebrate MLK can be found on these links as well as our official  Day of Service opportunity to volunteer.

This ASI Special event is an ongoing volunteer-led project made by people like you, using multiple educational sources regularly being revised and updated. We would love your assistance if you or your group would like to get involved, learn more here.