SMOKEY ROBINSON, 81 YEARS OLD

Even at the age of 81, Smokey Robinson still performs as a solo artist and is still booming. Robinson made his career start in 1955 when he formed a lineup group which eventually became The Miracles. The group became heavily associated with legendary record label Motown. At the time, Motown was making significant investments towards advancing African American music into the mainstream. Sure enough, The Miracles found massive success. From the group’s existence from 1955 until 1972, its songs became iconic and highly successful. The Track of My Tears is regarded to be the group’s most iconic song. The group ended in 1972, which led to Robinson’s start as a solo artist.

While he had ups and downs, Robinson overall was highly successful. Among his most famous songs as a solo artist include Cruisin, Just to See Her, and Being With You. Due to his career achievements and contributions, he was inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 1987 and received an award from the Library of Congress in 2016.