When Motown celebrates its 50th anniversary this year, Smokey Robinson is sure to be there alongside founder Berry Gordy. Smokey Robinson and the Miracles were Motown’s first recording group, and Robinson penned several hits for other Motown artists.
His latest album, the independent release “Time Flies When You’re Having Fun,” comes out in August and features collaborations with Carlos Santana, India Arie and Joss Stone.
The 69-year-old singer performs with Gladys Knight July 8 at Chastain Park Amphitheater.
Days before the death of Michael Jackson, Robinson reflected on Motown’s legacy. In a follow-up call, his publicist said the singer is devastated by the news and released this statement from Robinson.
“It is always hard to lose a friend. I will miss Michael and all that he brought to the world through his music and his creative genius. I know that his legend will live on and that the world will miss him dearly.”
The Jackson Five signed with Motown in 1968.
Q: You have said that Marvin Gaye is your favorite Motown artist. Is there a present day artist whose music has the potential to be as relevant as the late singer's?
A: Yes there are some, but their music has to stand the test of time. Marvin was one of the most unique artists to ever be. Marvin was like Stevie Wonder.
Q: How did you meet Berry Gordy?
A: I met him quite by chance. Berry had written all the hit songs for Jackie Wilson. A cousin of Ron White, one of the original Miracles, came to us and said Jackie Wilson's manager was in Detroit, talent scouting. We went to audition and Berry happened to be there. Jackie Wilson's manager rejected us, but Berry was impressed. He asked us where we got the songs from. I told him that I wrote them. Almost from that very first day, we became best friends.
Q: How did you enjoy your "American Idol" experience?
A: I've been on "American Idol" every season in one form or another. This time I loved it more than ever because I got a chance to mentor the kids. Berry and I took them to Detroit and showed them around the Motown museum and the original [recording] studio. That was such a joy to see their faces looking at all that history. And then to go back to Los Angeles and mentor them for a week; it was tremendous. I had a ball.
Q: What advice do you have for aspiring artists?
A: They should at least get (a) high school education, and realize you are going to get many doors slammed in your face. Then, even after you make it, show business is a life of peaks and valleys. I have them even today. They never cease. So I don't trip on the fact that I'm Smokey Robinson and the world knows me. I know that I'm a blessed man. For some reason God is letting me live this life that I absolutely love.
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Concert preview
Smokey Robinson and Gladys Knight
8 p.m. July 8. $25-$75. Chastain Park Amphitheater, 4469 Stella Dr., Atlanta GA. www.classicchastain.com, 404-733-4949.
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