The golden era of The Miracles was inaugurated with “Shop Around,” a collaborative masterpiece penned by Berry Gordy and Smokey Robinson. This advice-filled anthem resonated deeply with audiences, soaring to No. 1 on the R&B charts and impressively crossing over to No. 2 on the Billboard Hot 100, marking Motown’s most significant pop success at that time. The B-side, “Who’s Lovin’ You,” also gained considerable traction, later becoming a signature song for The Jackson 5 and numerous other artists, showcasing the depth of Smokey Robinson and The Miracles songs.
The hits continued to flow relentlessly from The Miracles, enriching the American songbook with classics like the energetic “Mickey’s Monkey,” the heartfelt “That’s What Love Is Made Of,” and the soulful ballad “Ooo Baby Baby.” Then came the 1965 release of “The Tracks Of My Tears,” a song that cemented Smokey Robinson’s legacy as one of America’s most distinguished songwriters. This timeless track was deservedly inducted into both the Grammy® Hall of Fame and the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, underscoring the enduring appeal of Smokey Robinson and The Miracles songs. During this period, Claudette Robinson retired from live performances but remained an integral part of the group in the recording studio. Another monumental hit, “Going To A Go-Go,” followed, paving the way for 1967’s “The Love I Saw In You Is Just A Mirage,” which marked a significant shift in billing to Smokey Robinson & the Miracles. Notably, “The Love I Saw In You Is Just A Mirage” was co-written with their long-standing guitarist, Marv Tarplin, the same musical mind behind the iconic riff of “The Tracks Of My Tears,” highlighting the collaborative spirit within Smokey Robinson and The Miracles songs.
Smokey Robinson and The Miracles performing, highlighting their iconic songs.
In 1970, Smokey Robinson & the Miracles achieved their first and only No. 1 hit on the pop charts with “The Tears Of A Clown.” This iconic track began as an instrumental piece crafted by Stevie Wonder. Smokey Robinson then masterfully added lyrics that captured the whimsical yet poignant essence of a circus clown. “Everybody loves him as Pagliacci the clown, but he doesn’t have someone who loves him as man,” Robinson explained, revealing the emotional depth embedded within the seemingly cheerful tune. Initially included in the Miracles’ 1967 album, Make It Happen, “The Tears Of A Clown” was later chosen for single release by Motown’s U.K. office three years later. It became an instant sensation, first in Britain and then sweeping across America, further exemplifying the lasting impact of Smokey Robinson and The Miracles songs.
Following Robinson’s departure, a new lead vocalist, Billy Griffin, stepped into the spotlight. The Miracles continued their chart-topping journey, achieving their first post-Smokey success with 1973’s “Don’t Let It End (’Til You Let It Begin).” This track was co-authored by Freddie Perren, a seasoned hitmaker from the Jackson 5 era. Perren further contributed to their resurgence with “Do It Baby,” which broke into the Top 20 on the pop charts. The Miracles reached even greater heights with “Love Machine,” a dance floor anthem that soared to No. 1 in 1975. They also released the critically acclaimed concept album, City Of Angels. Even without Smokey Robinson, The Miracles proved their resilience and enduring musical prowess, continuing to create memorable hits and living up to their legendary name, adding more chapters to the story of The Miracles’ songs.
