Thank you and Smokey for carrying out this interview! I liked how you uploaded one part per day at a time, leaving us in suspense as to when and what the next question(s) that you asked him would be and how he would/did respond! Thank you for uploading the complete interview for our viewing pleasure right here as well! Cheers! And peace!
This interview was one of the best you have ever done. Just listening to him is like a history lesson. I can't believe no one has not made a movie about his life.
My late mom and Smokey were high school classmates and friends at Detroit’s Northern High School. Thanks to my best friend and fraternity brother, I personally met Smokey in the early 80s. When I told him who my mom was and asked him if he’d call and say hello, he did it! They spoke like no time had passed between them. Smokey is a righteous man!
You know you are LEGENDARY when your voice is on like 40 Top 40 records, Dylan calls you America's Greatest Poet, everyone from The Temptations to Marvin Gaye to Michael Jackson record your songs, a Beatle writes a song about you, you are key in starting a record label (Motown)....I could go on! Vladtv made a lot of us GLAD you took a break from these rappers and gangsters to interview Mr. Robinson! He dropped so many jewels in this interview.
@@m.waymire I don't know about the Beatles. But British synth pop group ABC recorded "WHEN SMOKEY SINGS" in his honour..And had a big hit with it in 1987.
@@m.waymireIt wasn’t the Beatles, although they covered one of his songs ‘You’ve Really Got A Hold On Me’, it was George Harrison after he left the Beatles. It’s quite obscure but I remember it had Smokey’s name in the title.
Lot of talent in the hood. When talent gets an opportunity, the whole world gets to see and enjoy it. These are the same people that were called monkeys, not intellignet and made into maids and janitors. Thank God Berry Gordy made opportunity for his people, who you’d probably never woulda heard from. Some woulda been criminalized & imprisoned, if not killed. This is the history that 50% want to whitewash, and talk about skills learned from slavery.
Smokey is so humble and I love how much he appreciates other artists who admire his work and remake his songs. No ego at all just a genius with a story like no other. Great interview, absolute legend.
Smokey lived on Belmont , Aretha lived on East Chicago , I lived on Hawthorn . There were Italian and Polish people in the neighborhood and I never thought it was a ghetto . Smokey was the most popular kid in school . Those were some good times . I wonder who else from that neighborhood is still around. I'm 80 and Smoke is older than me . God is good .
He's such an icon. We need a Smokey Robinson biopic series! This man is literally a living legend. His story at 39:30 where he had the officers remove the segregation rope is powerful. Music has the power to heal when done right. ❤
I was born in Detroit in 1967 at the height of Motown . My parents played Motown music while I was in the womb and continued to play the best music ever produced !! Smokey Robinson the best writer of music to ever do it . Proud to be from Detroit because of the talent and people like Smokey Robinson . Hey Mom ….. don’t worry …. It’s SMOKEY !!!
He's extremely humbled....I admire Smokey Robinson.....I love how he remembers every detail of his life and when he speaks about the singing groups and the songs that he wrote he goes back to the first time that it happened not when we knew that it happened and he was famous... And that's what makes him #1 in my book!! Such an amazing spirit, who's talent's are never limited💐💐
As a Chicano from L.A., this man is responsible for a lot of the classic "oldies but goodies" we replay till this very day. His musical genius/impact still transcends through cultures and generations... Really enjoyed this interview, probably the first time I've stuck around for 2hrs straight. Props to Vlad...
Man I love Smokey and can we give this American icon so much love for his work through music and how amazing he still looks, sings, moves at 83. May god continue to bless him. Cruisin is still one of my fav Smokey hits.
I am a 45 year old, 4th generation recording musician/vocalist, white Canadian. I was born and bred Motown. I probably did the Temptation Walk before I could walk. Mr William "Smokey" Robinson is responsible for the absolutely monumentally wonderful, musical and loving relationship that I was blessed to have with my Dad. Throughout our time together (I tragically lost him in 2019) Dad and I would stay up all night listening to records, reading the liner notes, talking trivia. Motown inspired my Dad and he went on to be signed and part of the Younge St Toronto scene of the 60's and 70's. My Dad's band still gets air play on the radio. And Dad's life, Smokey's influence, and just the magic of that Era has brought pure joy and breathed life into my family and still carries us. I can't stress how this music, so uniquely and powerfully, rooted my family and gave us all a strong and loving thread. I wish there were a way that I could meet Mr Robinson and shake his hand and thank him. HIS music got us through so much tragedy and also was how we celebrated the good times and even was just part of our day to day life. I wish Dad were here to have heard this. We would have finished the sentences together from hard study of this music lol. An absolutely perfect interview! Thank you for this gift. You truly have no idea what it has brought me tonight to listen to this as I sit here, missing my Dad so deeply. You genuinely made my broken heart smile. All the respect in the world to you both. God bless! Thanks and praise from Peterborough Ontario Canada 🇨🇦 ♥️
In those days eve though they were poor the love was there. Because they spent lots of time together, many people give thank for that time that when people sit together and eat because that was expected of them. Now this don’t exist anymore people have so much these days and all that family union is gone. Because people these days have work so much to survive they done have time for families.
What an incredible life Smokey Robinson has had. His contributions to the world of music are endless. And damn it - You would never know he is over 80yrs old!!! His mind & memory is sharp as a tack!! Truly legendery! What a wonderful interview - what a likable, chill man!
You will not regret it. He came to Maryland and his show was so good. His voice is so smooth. He’s 83 but you’d never guess he was. He was so good with the audience & with his old road stories and all. I’d go see him again. I’m only in my 50s & my dad played Motown around the house all the time. Smokey was my favorite.
Music genius, he made it through the toughest times in music, lost friends and at 83 years old he looks fantastic and still preforming! Thank you for your music, humility and for adding joy into our lives through your music. May God continue to bless your life and those you love. What a journey!
Mr. Robinson is an absolute gem and scholar. I had the honor of meeting him back in 2002. He was very generous and kind. His legacy is oh so priceless and simply marvelous.
Smokey is one of the most talented 20th century songwriter, composer, interpreter, singer of the music industry. He influenced literally generations of musicians. I love so much this man and his music!
A lot of people don’t understand there would be no Beatles, Bob Dylan, the Rolling Stones (and many others) if it weren’t for artists like Smokey. That’s how iconic this guy is. Another Motown fun fact, Hall and Oates was originally mentored by the Temptations, particularly Paul Williams.
the beatles, stones were inspired by other black & white artists who were way bigger than smokey or motown at the end of the 50s. chuck berry, fats domino, little richard, buddy holly, eddie cochran, elvis
@@Ah-ed6ie “In music they are more generally gifted than the whites with accurate ears for tune and time, and they have been found capable of imagining a small catch.” - Thomas Jefferson Even the most racist white man knew what time it was.
I had the chance to meet Smokey once between 1996-1998 when I was a limo driver for Music Express. They sent me to pick up Smokey at LA's Capitol Records' building and drive him home in Burbank or somewhere in the area. On the way to his home we had a friendly conversation and he was very open to me. A really nice person.
This is an important interview. To have a legend in the industry talk and clarify his life in detail, is thrilling. Really getting to know the artist one on one is so much better than a narrated documentary with clips. It brings everything down to a relatable level.
@William Smokey Robinson Yep. I heard your greatest hits over and over where I worked thankfully in my twenties. There were big fans playing it over the system along with M. Jackson's Thriller album. Really enjoyed it over and over. BTW I'm thrilled that YOU responded. Makes my decade!
Smokey Robinson is such a class act! Vlad you should be forever grateful that this man gave you an opportunity to interview him. I particularly loved his calm and positive demeanor throughout the interview. Everything was on the positive side and not negative. Giving you your flowers brother Smokey. Rrspect✊🏾
I met Smokey in Vegas 20 years ago and he was kind, personable and lighthearted then as he is in this interview. My cousin and I went to see Gladys Knight and left before the crowd. Ran into Smokey in the hall and he hugged us as if he knew our families. Classy thru and thru. He is a LIVING legend.❤
This has to be the BEST interview EVER. There was no 'dirt' on anyone. He did not elaborate. He only answered the questions that were posed and moved on, he added nothing, just waited for the next question. I found him to be so honest. Bravo, Mr. Robinson, not only are you an ICON, but a TRUE GENTLEMAN👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼 Hats🎩 off to you sir!!!!!
Some of my favorite tracks by Smokey gots to be daylight & darkness, can’t stand to see you cry, ooo baby baby & fork in the road. (Coming from a 21 year old) this man is an absolute legend with timeless records. To bad not many people in my generation don’t have appreciation for musical legends like this man.
Incredibly detailed memory for anyone, but especially for an 83-year-old! I've LOVED him since 1967 when I was 14 and actually met him by accident in person in Seattle in 2002, just the two of us in the corner of a bookstore. I started trying to describe to him how much his music had always meant to me but I was so overwhelmed that I started to cry. He gave me a big hug and then had to join Berry for a meeting. Gosh, if I'd known I'd meet him, I would have washed my hair that day! What a sweet guy.
Only 4 words to descrive this legend.. ONE IN A MILLION! Thank you Smoke for changing many peoples lives for the better, which includes numerous artists in and around the Motown world!
My parents would have danced & listened to all the Motown tunes & they are no longer here, just listening to Smokey tell his story feels like I’m listening to a family member. Smokey wrote so many hit tunes in his career, a prolific icon in every sense of the word. Best VLAD TV interview ever, everyone of us can learn from this great man.
Wow just imagine if his father didn’t make it out of that situation 😢there would be no Smokey the angels watched over him and I’m sure his grandmother was a praying 🙏🏽 woman especially in those times such a sad story. I am so grateful to have grown up off his music 🎶 ❤
As a guitarist, I met him peripherally in music circles in the Detroit area. Exchanged a few pleasantries here and there, nothing more, always a classy, polite guy. Years later was playing a wedding gig in an LA suburb. Normal wedding, mix of people. During a break, out of nowhere, Smokey approaches the stage, sticks out his hand and says, "Hi Paul Michael, how you doing, man? Nice to see you." The rest of the band almost fell down. So did I! Sweetest man alive.
Thanks for bringing Smokey so that we can hear his story from his own mouth. Thanks for the music you gave us over the years Smokey. We wish you nothing but the best in your life.
THIS MANS MEMORY IS AMAZING! IM SO HAPPY HE'S AROUND TO TELL THE STORIES THE YOUNG KIDS NEED TO HEAR.. THEY HAD STRUGGLES, NO MONEY BUT LOVED THE MUSIC. THIS IS HOW YOUR BRAIN AND BODY WORKS WITHOUT DRUGS! I LOVE YOU SMOKEY❤
This interview must be one of the best, if not the best, interviews in your awesome library of interviews!! Speaking with a legend, listening to foundational history, and hearing awesome stories from an iconic musical genius! Wish we had this level of musical expertise in this generation ... so unfortunate that we no longer have this level of musical expertise. EVERYONE who I shared this link with couldn't stop watching it. Smokey Robinson is unmistakably "the legend" who created "timeless music"!! Thank you for this one!!!
No Miracles No Motown!! Smokey and The Miracles will always have a special place in my heart....And I started on the Temptations who I love but the Miracles had a harmony that has and will last the ages! What a National Treasure this man is...
Long ago way before TH-cam I saw an interview of Smokey being questioned about his sister, 17 years older than him. He said as a young boy he listened to her as if she was another mother to him. He spoke of her support and protection and how it was his privilege to financially support her until her death. He also bought her a nice house. It was a real authentic experience as Smokey spoke fondly of his two older sisters.
This is the best interview with Smokey ever!! Love learning about all that actually happened behind the scenes from Smokey himself! Smokey, you're one of GOAT's!! LOVE your music man & TY for making real music that I grew up with & it still affects my life today!! At 83 you look & sound AMAZING, Smokey! TY djvlad for featuring Smokey & for your great interview style!!
This was one ☝🏾of vlads best interviews ever, Vlad was not over the top he didn’t disrupt Smokey and it flowed naturally, I hope to see more like this, thank you for this was Vlad, because just like me smokey is from Michigan and Smokey is so legendary a living icon ❤🙏🏽🙏🏽💫🌟
BEST INTERVIEW EVER!!!! He is a treasure it was just wonderful hearing these stories and Smokey is an amazing story teller! I've never sat through a whole Vlad interview till now❤
Liked how he did it in a funny way when he corrected Vlad. Essentially the ghetto? It was the ghetto. Never forgot and damn proud of where he came from.
I adore Smokey Robinson & this interview cements why he is so worthy of respect & awe. He is humble - DOES HE KNOW WHO HE IS?!! LOL PRAISE GOD ALMIGHTY FOR HEALING SMOKEY & FOR SMOKEY TO GIVE GOD THE GLORY - ANOTHER REASON TO LOVE SMOKEY ROBINSON!!
His Father was living on the same road as my family in Alabama. It had to hard trying to survive during those times. I appreciate him telling his Father’s story. It hit me personally.
Vlad, Smokey is a living legend. I’m 57yrs.old and I used to write music. Smokey’s lyrics were just beautiful, coupled with that voice; just magic. I tell you that today, these kids making music should study him, more quality songs with substance would be made if they did.
I'm a Detroiter and Smokey has always been my celebrity crush. I met him once at a Superbowl party and he kissed me on the check. Of course, I didnt wash my face for awhile, lol. But, no matter who sings his songs, for me its never as good as hearing Smokey's voice singing them. I've seen him in concert every chance I could. This interview was awesome. Love you Smokey forever!!🥰❤😘
In speaking about whether he saw potential in some artists he knew when they were young, Smokey essentially crystallized why some talented artists flounder and some soar: a hit record. Such a simple but basic concept, but folk still miss it….And as for Mr. Robinson’s catalogue? I STILL remember WHERE I was, as a little girl from the west side of Detroit, exactly where I was and the moment I first heard ‘Tears of a Clown!’ That song is an EVERLASTING and brilliant classic! They just don’t write like that anymore😍.
I need a book, memoir or biopic about this man. I would totally tune in. Amazing storytelling and what a life!! From his dad’s story (which I have so many questions about, to his upbringing and drug use (things I would have NEVER guessed about him), I wanna know MORE!! ❤ u Smoke
Vlad content transcends all age groups with this interview , I can't wait to show this to my pops when I visit him, if any other content creator's hating on this journalist still to this day must give credit and take notes .
Smokey is so fine! His smile is blinding. I remember taking naps as a kid to his music. To this day I am a sucker for a beautiful smile. And omg the EYES have it! But the mind of the Master Artist Smokey Robinson sends me and grounds me at the same time. Mercy Smokey! God bless you. Thanks Vlad!
This is such a good interview, hearing that Stevie Wonder and Marvin Gaye use to battle each other on multiple instruments is PRICELESS, thank you Vlad!
Everytime I see Mr. Smokey Robinson I see home & my mother . I have a medal with an inscription that my mom gave me it says , I love your face, a song by Robinson, my mom sang to me still to this day. My mother sang for a living I know her and Smokey are same age.. In our life Motown was home. Love you Smokey great interview. He's beyound legendary there's just not another word for it.
Great Interview. Smoke is a Legend with a great story and exciting life. Listening to him makes me miss my grandpa and his stories. This one is gem fr. TY Vlad for getting us this opportunity to hear these stories.
Motown has given birth to so many great writers, producers, and artists unlike any other entity and still to this day is unmatched. Salute to you William “Smokey” Robinson! You are the best!
Amazing. The truth and honesty with which Smokey speaks is a gift to humanity, in addition to his already massive contributions. Despite it all, he is humble, respectul, and thankful: a truly great human being.
It was great to hear that Mr Robinson was a part of record industry that treated artists right! There's no excuse for treating people any less. Kudos on setting the standard Mr. Smokey Robinson !
Jocelyn Carter: A true living legend! My whole childhood, teenage years, and adult years, I would listen to his music, watch him on television, whenever he's on! Smokey is still good looking, yes, at 64, I STILL WILL AND ALWAYS, swoon over him!!
When I was young growing up in Detroit. Smokey was my idol. I practically worshiped this guy. What an enormous talent. I hope to meet him before either of us dies.
Great Interview! It brought back memories of my teenage life. I’m now 69. The 60’s and 70’s were great times in American History. Smokey Robinson and Motown set the standard for what we call Soul Music.
Best interview yet!💓 It was His humility and his modesty. For me.😍 This is the definition of an icon a true artist. Someone with pure honest talent. Wish todays artist would have some of the purity and humility this man possess.
😮 fantastic interview Smokey Robinson and was able to learn so much thank you for keeping true to your life God bless you always with your beautiful eyes one of your fans Petula
This man is the ultimate musician. What I think is that he’s way under appreciated. Great subject and interview, thank you.. BTW he looks fantastic and he’s sharp as a tack.
This was a fabulous interview with Smokey Robinson, who has been my idol since I was a kid. I loved the candidness of the questions and the truthfulness of his responses. There will never be another like him. Blessings to you both March 17, 2023.
Thank you to everyone who watched this interview. This was truly one of the highlighters of my 15+ year career as an interviewer.
Smokey Robinson is Michael Jackson’s biological father and Diana Ross is his mother. Look up “An American Scheme”
Could you get Bobby Brown on this platform?
Now you gotta get Babyface on
Smoky Robinson is history himself he was part of segregation, integration Martin Luther King, Malcolm X , John F Kennedy , Black Panthers ECT.
Thank you and Smokey for carrying out this interview! I liked how you uploaded one part per day at a time, leaving us in suspense as to when and what the next question(s) that you asked him would be and how he would/did respond! Thank you for uploading the complete interview for our viewing pleasure right here as well! Cheers! And peace!
I love how Smokey's memory is so strong to correct Vlad, when he's slightly off. It shows how much he still has his recollections on point.
🎯
❤😅❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤
He is totally on it with his clarifications to VLAD.
Especially for someone his age
Great interview!
Mr Roberson’s memory is consistent with the adage:
Writing is to the mind as weightlifting is to the body!
This interview was one of the best you have ever done. Just listening to him is like a history lesson. I can't believe no one has not made a movie about his life.
For real.
It's coming 👍🏾💪🏾♥️
@@TheDetroitblack Well we need it before he passes and won’t have his creative input.
So ... Smokie Robinson is the original "Green Eyed Bandit". Shoutouts to Erick Sermon tho ...Def Squad for life!
Been saying this for years, its like they're waiting on him to pass to do it....give that man his flowers now
My late mom and Smokey were high school classmates and friends at Detroit’s Northern High School. Thanks to my best friend and fraternity brother, I personally met Smokey in the early 80s. When I told him who my mom was and asked him if he’d call and say hello, he did it! They spoke like no time had passed between them. Smokey is a righteous man!
Aww! I no that meant alot to your mom and you. Sorry for your loss.
...He is righteous,a dynamic man!!💜❤️💎🙏 My condolences to your family for the great loss of your mother! RIP 😪💔🌹👑
How Beautiful & Kind to call your Mom.♥️ My Condolences to you …I lost my mom in 2003. Take Care & stay Blessed.🙏🏼🕊️
That's cool.❤
I wonder if I knew your mom . I'm from the same neighborhood . God bless you.
You know you are LEGENDARY when your voice is on like 40 Top 40 records, Dylan calls you America's Greatest Poet, everyone from The Temptations to Marvin Gaye to Michael Jackson record your songs, a Beatle writes a song about you, you are key in starting a record label (Motown)....I could go on! Vladtv made a lot of us GLAD you took a break from these rappers and gangsters to interview Mr. Robinson! He dropped so many jewels in this interview.
yup
Beautiful interview!
So much I didnt know about this man and the many contributions he made to the music industry. What song did the Beatles make about him ? I missed it .
@@m.waymire
I don't know about the Beatles. But British synth pop group ABC recorded "WHEN SMOKEY SINGS" in his honour..And had a big hit with it in 1987.
@@m.waymireIt wasn’t the Beatles, although they covered one of his songs ‘You’ve Really Got A Hold On Me’, it was George Harrison after he left the Beatles. It’s quite obscure but I remember it had Smokey’s name in the title.
The fact that he met Aretha Franklin at 6 years old is absolutely insane. Smokey was destined to be around the greats and become one himself.
He has such vivid visions of many super stars that were fashioned thru times and still with us to tell it so clearly epic
bro lived walking distance from Aretha Franklin and Diana Ross when he was a child . that’s crazy 😂😂
Lot of talent in the hood.
When talent gets an opportunity, the whole world gets to see and enjoy it. These are the same people that were called monkeys, not intellignet and made into maids and janitors.
Thank God Berry Gordy made opportunity for his people, who you’d probably never woulda heard from. Some woulda been criminalized & imprisoned, if not killed.
This is the history that 50% want to whitewash, and talk about skills learned from slavery.
@@wally2gen. Lotta talent in the hood- God love Berry Gordy.
@@wally2genblew my mind
Smokey is so humble and I love how much he appreciates other artists who admire his work and remake his songs. No ego at all just a genius with a story like no other. Great interview, absolute legend.
Truly exemplifies the term, Legend. Great interview; amazing life of the great Smokey Robinson.
@@marjnussby3193 On tha real.
He also gets paid too! Lol 😅
Smokey lived on Belmont , Aretha lived on East Chicago , I lived on Hawthorn . There were Italian and Polish people in the neighborhood and I never thought it was a ghetto . Smokey was the most popular kid in school . Those were some good times . I wonder who else from that neighborhood is still around. I'm 80 and Smoke is older than me . God is good .
Thank God finally a decent interview from a legendary man Smokey Robinson. Was tired of those ignorant non talking rappers.
Girl me too. I had to look at the name twice 😅
💯💯💯💯💯🎯
Oh wow
Smokey is a walking history book! Thanks for this awesome interview! I had no idea he’d written over 4,000 songs…GOAT.🐐
He's such an icon. We need a Smokey Robinson biopic series! This man is literally a living legend. His story at 39:30 where he had the officers remove the segregation rope is powerful. Music has the power to heal when done right. ❤
Facts.. @ When done right.
i love you so much smokey Robinson' and your dad had courage leaving his Mother 🙏
@@marcusmundy6247At xX
YOU ARE SO RIGHT
it was nostalgic watching Smokey's interview. I had always love Smokey's songs,my favourite was cruisin
I was born in Detroit in 1967 at the height of Motown . My parents played Motown music while I was in the womb and continued to play the best music ever produced !! Smokey Robinson the best writer of music to ever do it . Proud to be from Detroit because of the talent and people like Smokey Robinson . Hey Mom ….. don’t worry …. It’s SMOKEY !!!
He's extremely humbled....I admire Smokey Robinson.....I love how he remembers every detail of his life and when he speaks about the singing groups and the songs that he wrote he goes back to the first time that it happened not when we knew that it happened and he was famous... And that's what makes him #1 in my book!! Such an amazing spirit, who's talent's are never limited💐💐
@William Smokey Robinson Yes indeed I am...
Smokey is a true American treasure. His mind is so clear and strong. I am so glad about this interview. They need to do a movie about his life.
He looks good for 83 years old
Smokey DEFINITELY needs a movie! It's long overdue 💯
Smokey is so down to earth.. I love it
As a Chicano from L.A., this man is responsible for a lot of the classic "oldies but goodies" we replay till this very day. His musical genius/impact still transcends through cultures and generations... Really enjoyed this interview, probably the first time I've stuck around for 2hrs straight. Props to Vlad...
Man I love Smokey and can we give this American icon so much love for his work through music and how amazing he still looks, sings, moves at 83. May god continue to bless him. Cruisin is still one of my fav Smokey hits.
I am a 45 year old, 4th generation recording musician/vocalist, white Canadian. I was born and bred Motown. I probably did the Temptation Walk before I could walk. Mr William "Smokey" Robinson is responsible for the absolutely monumentally wonderful, musical and loving relationship that I was blessed to have with my Dad. Throughout our time together (I tragically lost him in 2019) Dad and I would stay up all night listening to records, reading the liner notes, talking trivia. Motown inspired my Dad and he went on to be signed and part of the Younge St Toronto scene of the 60's and 70's. My Dad's band still gets air play on the radio. And Dad's life, Smokey's influence, and just the magic of that Era has brought pure joy and breathed life into my family and still carries us. I can't stress how this music, so uniquely and powerfully, rooted my family and gave us all a strong and loving thread.
I wish there were a way that I could meet Mr Robinson and shake his hand and thank him. HIS music got us through so much tragedy and also was how we celebrated the good times and even was just part of our day to day life.
I wish Dad were here to have heard this. We would have finished the sentences together from hard study of this music lol.
An absolutely perfect interview! Thank you for this gift. You truly have no idea what it has brought me tonight to listen to this as I sit here, missing my Dad so deeply. You genuinely made my broken heart smile. All the respect in the world to you both. God bless!
Thanks and praise from Peterborough Ontario Canada 🇨🇦 ♥️
This made tears swell in my eyes. Music is so powerful. Love to you and your family from the states. 🤟🏽
In those days eve though they were poor the love was there. Because they spent lots of time together, many people give thank for that time that when people sit together and eat because that was expected of them. Now this don’t exist anymore people have so much these days and all that family union is gone. Because people these days have work so much to survive they done have time for families.
I'm sorry to hear about your dad.
What an incredible life Smokey Robinson has had. His contributions to the world of music are endless. And damn it - You would never know he is over 80yrs old!!! His mind & memory is sharp as a tack!! Truly legendery! What a wonderful interview - what a likable, chill man!
Hello Jack
how are you doing today?
Oh Yes, Truth Indeed AMEN 🙏 It's a Blessing that Smoke Robinson is still sharp at a tact. God Bless him.
Great interview…Smokey Robinson is performing at my job in Las Vegas in April and now I’m gonna go buy tickets and see him live. What a LEGEND.
you're so lucky
You will not regret it. He came to Maryland and his show was so good. His voice is so smooth. He’s 83 but you’d never guess he was. He was so good with the audience & with his old road stories and all. I’d go see him again. I’m only in my 50s & my dad played Motown around the house all the time. Smokey was my favorite.
This interview is and will be HISTORIC!!!! Smokey Robinson was the back bone of Motown....He looks great for his age...👍👍
12 years old, your father was wise beyond his very young age !! Breaks my heart when I hear this 💔 for both him and his mom .
Music genius, he made it through the toughest times in music, lost friends and at 83 years old he looks fantastic and still preforming! Thank you for your music, humility and for adding joy into our lives through your music. May God continue to bless your life and those you love. What a journey!
Hello Teresa
how are you doing today?
Mr. Robinson is an absolute gem and scholar. I had the honor of meeting him back in 2002. He was very generous and kind. His legacy is oh so priceless and simply marvelous.
I just let my 79 year old Dad watch this interview. First time I think he seen youtube. And he loved it.
Aww,Wonderful
Smokey is one of the most talented 20th century songwriter, composer, interpreter, singer of the music industry. He influenced literally generations of musicians. I love so much this man and his music!
Smokey is a 🐐 still very relevant on my playlist and also on my 16yo daughter’s. God bless this legend.
A lot of people don’t understand there would be no Beatles, Bob Dylan, the Rolling Stones (and many others) if it weren’t for artists like Smokey. That’s how iconic this guy is. Another Motown fun fact, Hall and Oates was originally mentored by the Temptations, particularly Paul Williams.
Black people period!!! ✊🏿✊🏿✊🏿
I'm gonna say it we are to music to what we are to foods without the ingredient...the world would be a bland place.
the 50s and 60s is the best ever period for music. PERIOD.
the beatles, stones were inspired by other black & white artists who were way bigger than smokey or motown at the end of the 50s. chuck berry, fats domino, little richard, buddy holly, eddie cochran, elvis
@@Ah-ed6ie “In music they are more generally gifted than the whites with accurate ears for tune and time, and they have been found capable of imagining a small catch.” - Thomas Jefferson
Even the most racist white man knew what time it was.
I had the chance to meet Smokey once between 1996-1998 when I was a limo driver for Music Express. They sent me to pick up Smokey at LA's Capitol Records' building and drive him home in Burbank or somewhere in the area. On the way to his home we had a friendly conversation and he was very open to me. A really nice person.
This is an important interview. To have a legend in the industry talk and clarify his life in detail, is thrilling. Really getting to know the artist one on one is so much better than a narrated documentary with clips. It brings everything down to a relatable level.
@William Smokey Robinson Yep. I heard your greatest hits over and over where I worked thankfully in my twenties. There were big fans playing it over the system along with M. Jackson's Thriller album. Really enjoyed it over and over. BTW I'm thrilled that YOU responded. Makes my decade!
Smokey Robinson is such a class act! Vlad you should be forever grateful that this man gave you an opportunity to interview him. I particularly loved his calm and positive demeanor throughout the interview. Everything was on the positive side and not negative. Giving you your flowers brother Smokey. Rrspect✊🏾
Smokey is very sharp, he's just full of insight
I met Smokey in Vegas 20 years ago and he was kind, personable and lighthearted then as he is in this interview. My cousin and I went to see Gladys Knight and left before the crowd. Ran into Smokey in the hall and he hugged us as if he knew our families. Classy thru and thru. He is a LIVING legend.❤
Agony and ecstasy is one of my favorites. My grandmother LOVED Smokey Robinson! She thought he was so good looking back in the day 😊
He is still good-looking. 💖
@@lacybolden6909 he sure is still good looking. And, I'm 47.
I loved Special occasion, I second that emotion, More love, and Agony and ecstasy.
This has to be the BEST interview EVER. There was no 'dirt' on anyone. He did not elaborate. He only answered the questions that were posed and moved on, he added nothing, just waited for the next question. I found him to be so honest. Bravo, Mr. Robinson, not only are you an ICON, but a TRUE GENTLEMAN👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼 Hats🎩 off to you sir!!!!!
Some of my favorite tracks by Smokey gots to be daylight & darkness, can’t stand to see you cry, ooo baby baby & fork in the road. (Coming from a 21 year old) this man is an absolute legend with timeless records. To bad not many people in my generation don’t have appreciation for musical legends like this man.
Perfect list of songs, ALL jams!
SAD BUT TRUE
Yes 🙌🏾 living legend Mr. Smokey Robinson! One of Detroit’s finest
This man is an American monument in the flesh. His music and his legacy is forever intertwined with the 60's. Forever a legend no matter what
Incredibly detailed memory for anyone, but especially for an 83-year-old! I've LOVED him since 1967 when I was 14 and actually met him by accident in person in Seattle in 2002, just the two of us in the corner of a bookstore. I started trying to describe to him how much his music had always meant to me but I was so overwhelmed that I started to cry. He gave me a big hug and then had to join Berry for a meeting. Gosh, if I'd known I'd meet him, I would have washed my hair that day! What a sweet guy.
Smokey Robinson is the world’s greatest poet! His writing it’s phenomenal! Great interview!
Only 4 words to descrive this legend.. ONE IN A MILLION! Thank you Smoke for changing many peoples lives for the better, which includes numerous artists in and around the Motown world!
This is amazing thank you so much for this. Smokey Robinson, you are an eternal icon!
My parents would have danced & listened to all the Motown tunes & they are no longer here, just listening to Smokey tell his story feels like I’m listening to a family member.
Smokey wrote so many hit tunes in his career, a prolific icon in every sense of the word.
Best VLAD TV interview ever, everyone of us can learn from this great man.
Wow just imagine if his father didn’t make it out of that situation 😢there would be no Smokey the angels watched over him and I’m sure his grandmother was a praying 🙏🏽 woman especially in those times such a sad story. I am so grateful to have grown up off his music 🎶 ❤
Truth Indeed AMEN 🙏
As a guitarist, I met him peripherally in music circles in the Detroit area. Exchanged a few pleasantries here and there, nothing more, always a classy, polite guy. Years later was playing a wedding gig in an LA suburb. Normal wedding, mix of people. During a break, out of nowhere, Smokey approaches the stage, sticks out his hand and says, "Hi Paul Michael, how you doing, man? Nice to see you." The rest of the band almost fell down. So did I! Sweetest man alive.
Thanks for bringing Smokey so that we can hear his story from his own mouth. Thanks for the music you gave us over the years Smokey. We wish you nothing but the best in your life.
Smokey Robinson is truly a gifted, great person, and a class act. I was really captured by this interview. What a great story and life.
THIS MANS MEMORY IS AMAZING! IM SO HAPPY HE'S AROUND TO TELL THE STORIES THE YOUNG KIDS NEED TO HEAR.. THEY HAD STRUGGLES, NO MONEY BUT LOVED THE MUSIC. THIS IS HOW YOUR BRAIN AND BODY WORKS WITHOUT DRUGS! I LOVE YOU SMOKEY❤
My brother Mr. Smokey Robinson was the greatest writer of songs period.
This interview must be one of the best, if not the best, interviews in your awesome library of interviews!! Speaking with a legend, listening to foundational history, and hearing awesome stories from an iconic musical genius! Wish we had this level of musical expertise in this generation ... so unfortunate that we no longer have this level of musical expertise. EVERYONE who I shared this link with couldn't stop watching it. Smokey Robinson is unmistakably "the legend" who created "timeless music"!! Thank you for this one!!!
I was born in Detroit, 1957. Grew up listening to Motown, Smokey one of my favorites!!
Smokey has some beautiful eyes 👀 grew up to Smokey.. GOD bless him.. he’s still here with us! ❤❤❤
No Miracles No Motown!!
Smokey and The Miracles will always have a special place in my heart....And I started on the Temptations who I love but the Miracles had a harmony that has and will last the ages! What a National Treasure this man is...
Long ago way before TH-cam I saw an interview of Smokey being questioned about his sister, 17 years older than him.
He said as a young boy he listened to her as if she was another mother to him.
He spoke of her support and protection and how it was his privilege to financially support her until her death.
He also bought her a nice house.
It was a real authentic experience as Smokey spoke fondly of his two older sisters.
Aww,How Wonderful
Such a beautiful beautiful MAN 💯👍
This is the best interview with Smokey ever!! Love learning about all that actually happened behind the scenes from Smokey himself! Smokey, you're one of GOAT's!! LOVE your music man & TY for making real music that I grew up with & it still affects my life today!! At 83 you look & sound AMAZING, Smokey! TY djvlad for featuring Smokey & for your great interview style!!
Nobody in the world sounds like Smokey. Such a legend. Such a talent. Good interview! And he really looks great! 83 where???
This was one ☝🏾of vlads best interviews ever, Vlad was not over the top he didn’t disrupt Smokey and it flowed naturally, I hope to see more like this, thank you for this was Vlad, because just like me smokey is from Michigan and Smokey is so legendary a living icon ❤🙏🏽🙏🏽💫🌟
💯
This is so great to hear how Smokey Robinson came into the business with his singing and still to this day!!
I am so impressed by how humble he is. There's no bragging or bravado he's just grateful for everything 🙏🏽 these new kids could NEVA!❤
Smokey is a once-in-a-lifetime man nobody is like him nobody ever will be like him.. Love you Smokey 💗
BEST INTERVIEW EVER!!!! He is a treasure it was just wonderful hearing these stories and Smokey is an amazing story teller! I've never sat through a whole Vlad interview till now❤
The modesty of this man ❤
That Aretha Franklin story just gave me chills. Then came Diana Ross talk about destiny.🙏🙏🙏
Truth Indeed
Legendary! Such a warm personality too. Seems like just chilling with him & talking to him he’s just very like-able & cool.
Liked how he did it in a funny way when he corrected Vlad. Essentially the ghetto? It was the ghetto. Never forgot and damn proud of where he came from.
Happy 83rd Birthday To The Poet Of Love 🎤 🎵🎶🎵🍾🍾🍾
I adore Smokey Robinson & this interview cements why he is so worthy of respect & awe.
He is humble - DOES HE KNOW WHO HE IS?!! LOL
PRAISE GOD ALMIGHTY FOR HEALING SMOKEY & FOR SMOKEY TO GIVE GOD THE GLORY - ANOTHER REASON TO LOVE SMOKEY ROBINSON!!
Truth Indeed AMEN
His Father was living on the same road as my family in Alabama. It had to hard trying to survive during those times. I appreciate him telling his Father’s story. It hit me personally.
Vlad, Smokey is a living legend. I’m 57yrs.old and I used to write music. Smokey’s lyrics were just beautiful, coupled with that voice; just magic. I tell you that today, these kids making music should study him, more quality songs with substance would be made if they did.
❤️ GOD gave Mr. Robinson a gift
coming from a eighteen year old i study the greats before me and learn from the greats.
I'm a Detroiter and Smokey has always been my celebrity crush. I met him once at a Superbowl party and he kissed me on the check. Of course, I didnt wash my face for awhile, lol. But, no matter who sings his songs, for me its never as good as hearing Smokey's voice singing them. I've seen him in concert every chance I could. This interview was awesome. Love you Smokey forever!!🥰❤😘
I had to keep stopping this every time they mentioned a song, so many classics this man gave us
In speaking about whether he saw potential in some artists he knew when they were young, Smokey essentially crystallized why some talented artists flounder and some soar: a hit record. Such a simple but basic concept, but folk still miss it….And as for Mr. Robinson’s catalogue? I STILL remember WHERE I was, as a little girl from the west side of Detroit, exactly where I was and the moment I first heard ‘Tears of a Clown!’ That song is an EVERLASTING and brilliant classic! They just don’t write like that anymore😍.
I need a book, memoir or biopic about this man. I would totally tune in. Amazing storytelling and what a life!! From his dad’s story (which I have so many questions about, to his upbringing and drug use (things I would have NEVER guessed about him), I wanna know MORE!! ❤ u Smoke
He has an autobiography. 😊
Shucks let me go buy the book!! And it needs to be made into film.
Vlad content transcends all age groups with this interview , I can't wait to show this to my pops when I visit him, if any other content creator's hating on this journalist still to this day must give credit and take notes .
Smokey only won one Grammy?????🤔WTF!!!
me too! I need more.
Such a beautiful man, at 83 years old 🥹🥹🥹😍😍🧡❣️❣️ all the stories and wisdom he has 🙂💕💙🌷
Smokey is so fine! His smile is blinding. I remember taking naps as a kid to his music. To this day I am a sucker for a beautiful smile. And omg the EYES have it! But the mind of the Master Artist Smokey Robinson sends me and grounds me at the same time. Mercy Smokey! God bless you. Thanks Vlad!
This is such a good interview, hearing that Stevie Wonder and Marvin Gaye use to battle each other on multiple instruments is PRICELESS, thank you Vlad!
This was the best interview Vlad has ever done.
Everytime I see Mr. Smokey Robinson I see home & my mother . I have a medal with an inscription that my mom gave me it says , I love your face, a song by Robinson, my mom sang to me still to this day. My mother sang for a living I know her and Smokey are same age.. In our life Motown was home. Love you Smokey great interview. He's beyound legendary there's just not another word for it.
To be a black artist in the jim crow era an come out a legend and a icon you got my respect..thats amazing
Thank you Smokey Robinson for sharing your talent!!!
Great Interview. Smoke is a Legend with a great story and exciting life. Listening to him makes me miss my grandpa and his stories. This one is gem fr. TY Vlad for getting us this opportunity to hear these stories.
Motown has given birth to so many great writers, producers, and artists unlike any other entity and still to this day is unmatched. Salute to you William “Smokey” Robinson! You are the best!
Amazing. The truth and honesty with which Smokey speaks is a gift to humanity, in addition to his already massive contributions. Despite it all, he is humble, respectul, and thankful: a truly great human being.
It was great to hear that Mr Robinson was a part of record industry that treated artists right!
There's no excuse for treating people any less.
Kudos on setting the standard Mr. Smokey Robinson !
What a gift. What a story. I love his music. Great interview.
Jocelyn Carter: A true living legend! My whole childhood, teenage years, and adult years, I would listen to his music, watch him on television, whenever he's on! Smokey is still good looking, yes, at 64, I STILL WILL AND ALWAYS, swoon over him!!
i can listen to him all day thank you Smokey
I loved how Smokey Robinson gave credit to God for his healing from addiction.
When I was young growing up in Detroit. Smokey was my idol. I practically worshiped this guy. What an enormous talent. I hope to meet him before either of us dies.
Great Interview! It brought back memories of my teenage life. I’m now 69. The 60’s and 70’s were great times in American History. Smokey Robinson and Motown set the standard for what we call Soul Music.
Woww we need a smokey Robinson Movie like yesterday great interview I have always loved smokey his songs take you to a whole nother level 💯🔥🔥❤️💚💛
He ages like wine, it’s crazy how he’s 83 but looks like he’s in his 50’s
Oh Yes, Truth Indeed AMEN 🙏
Plastic surgery
@@jeremyquadri and makeup
Yes....around 1998 he had a face lift....surgery
Best interview yet!💓 It was His humility and his modesty. For me.😍 This is the definition of an icon a true artist. Someone with pure honest talent. Wish todays artist would have some of the purity and humility this man possess.
😮 fantastic interview Smokey Robinson and was able to learn so much thank you for keeping true to your life God bless you always with your beautiful eyes one of your fans Petula
He is the one!!! ❤ Love this real man, with so much talent
A legend. . On my bucket list to see this iconic one ❤
This is absolutely PRICELESS!! The incomparable Smokey Robinson, living legend 🙌🏾🙌🏾🥰🥰
This man is the ultimate musician. What I think is that he’s way under appreciated. Great subject and interview, thank you.. BTW he looks fantastic and he’s sharp as a tack.
My mom’s favorite My Gurl played during her funeral while the video was showing pics of her life sooooo refreshing.
i can watch this man speak all day
This was a fabulous interview with Smokey Robinson, who has been my idol since I was a kid. I loved the candidness of the questions and the truthfulness of his responses. There will never be another like him. Blessings to you both March 17, 2023.
Truth Indeed AMEN 🙏
Wow one of the greatest song ever pen on paper is(My Girl) this song it so powerful it will never get old thank u Smokey thank u sir for that song.