At 84, Smokey Robinson is still living life on his own terms. The legendary musician, known for timeless classics like My Girl and The Agony and the Ecstasy, opened up in a recent interview, revealing how much of his songwriting is born from universal emotions and not always from personal experience.
When asked about his 1975 track The Agony and the Ecstasy, a song often linked to his rumored affair with Diana Ross, Smokey took a laid-back approach. While he didn’t confirm the affair, he reminisced fondly about his relationship with the Chain Reaction singer, calling her “my babe” and describing their friendship as one of the longest of his life.
But Smokey’s love life hasn’t been without its complications. He was married to Claudette Robinson for over a decade while his affair with Diana Ross was underway. Despite this, Smokey emphasized how his music transcends personal stories, aiming to capture feelings that resonate with people everywhere.
Beyond his legendary music career, Smokey insists that his life is grounded in normalcy. Despite decades of fame, he’s still driving his own car, living with his wife Frances Gladney, and embracing his role in the limelight without letting it change who he is. “When I see people tripping on fame, man, that’s so stupid!” he said with a smile in an interview with The Times.
For Smokey Robinson, it’s all about keeping it real, both in his music and in life.