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Smokey Robinson, born William Smokey Robinson Jr. on February 19, 1940, in Detroit, Michigan, is a legendary figure in the music industry. With a net worth of $150 million, he’s celebrated for iconic hits like “Cruisin’” and “Shop Around”.
As a founding member of The Miracles and a pivotal force behind Motown Records, he wrote over 4,000 songs, collaborating with legends like Marvin Gaye and Diana Ross. His personal life includes two marriages, first to Claudette Rogers and later to Frances Gladney, with three children. At 84, Smokey Robinson continues to inspire through his music, philanthropy, and cultural legacy.
Quick Facts
| Category | Details |
| Full Name | William Smokey Robinson Jr. |
| Date of Birth | February 19, 1940 |
| Birthplace | Detroit, Michigan |
| Net Worth (2025) | $150 million |
| Height | 1.82 meters (5’11”) |
| Age | 84 |
| Spouses | Claudette Rogers (1959–1986), Frances Gladney (2002–present) |
| Children | Tamla Claudette Robinson, Trey Robinson, Berry William Borope Robinson |
| Major Affiliations | The Miracles, Motown Records |
Personal Life
Smokey Robinson’s personal life reflects his love for family, community, and music.
- Family Background: Raised by his mother, Flossie Robinson, and later by his sister, Geraldine Burston, Smokey grew up in modest circumstances.
- Hobbies and Interests: Beyond music, Smokey enjoys writing poetry and is a staunch advocate for fitness and healthy living.
- Health and Resilience: After overcoming substance abuse in the 1980s, he became a vocal supporter of mental health awareness.
Relationships
Smokey’s relationships have played a significant role in his personal and professional journey.
Marriages
- Claudette Rogers (1959–1986): His first wife and member of The Miracles, Claudette was integral to his early career success.
- Frances Gladney (2002–Present): His current wife, Frances, has been a steadfast supporter of Smokey’s endeavors, including their charitable work.
Children
Smokey has three children:
- Tamla Claudette Robinson
- Trey Robinson
- Berry William Borope Robinson
Friendships and Collaborations
Smokey’s close relationships with legends like Stevie Wonder, Marvin Gaye, and Aretha Franklin have shaped his career and legacy.
Education
Smokey attended Northern High School in Detroit, where he formed the group that would later become The Miracles. Though he didn’t pursue formal higher education, his mentorship under Berry Gordy at Motown Records provided invaluable life and business lessons.
Physical Appearance
Even at 84 years old, Smokey Robinson exudes charm and vitality.
| Attribute | Details |
| Height | 1.82 meters (5’11”) |
| Hair | Dark brown, often styled neatly |
| Eyes | Striking green, a defining feature |
| Fitness Regimen | Smokey maintains his physique through regular exercise and a healthy diet. |
What Is Smokey Robinson’s Net Worth: How Much is Smokey Robinson Worth?
As of 2025, Smokey Robinson’s net worth is an impressive $150 million. This wealth stems from decades of success as a singer, songwriter, producer, and entrepreneur. His work with The Miracles and pivotal role at Motown Records have created a legacy that continues to generate significant revenue through royalties, licensing, and other ventures.
Smokey Robinson’s Salary and Income Streams
Revenue Streams
- Royalties: Robinson’s timeless hits like “Shop Around,” “Cruisin’,” and “You’ve Really Got a Hold on Me” generate millions annually from airplay and licensing.
- Tours and Performances: Despite his age, Smokey remains active in the music business, performing live and delighting fans worldwide.
- Business Ventures: His ventures, including partnerships with brands and investments in property, contribute to his growing wealth.
- Motown Records: Serving as Vice President under Berry Gordy, Robinson earned a substantial income while shaping the label’s success.
Earnings Snapshot
| Year | Estimated Income |
| 2023 | $10 million |
| 2024 | $12 million |
| 2025 | $15 million |
Financial Journey: From Humble Beginnings to Stardom
Raised by his mother, Flossie Robinson, and later his sister, Geraldine Burston, Smokey grew up in modest circumstances in Detroit. Music became his passion early on, inspired by icons like Aretha Franklin and Tony Bennett. His career took off when he formed The Miracles, and their hit songs began climbing the charts.
Milestones in Smokey’s Financial Evolution
- 1959: The Miracles’ first hit, “Shop Around,” becomes Motown’s first million-seller.
- 1960s-70s: Songwriting for artists like Diana Ross and Marvin Gaye establishes Robinson as a prolific talent.
- 1980s: Solo albums like “A Quiet Storm” and “Being with You” solidify his individual success.
- 1990s-Present: His catalog’s licensing rights and Motown legacy fuel ongoing financial growth.
Sources of Income
Smokey Robinson’s wealth is the result of a multifaceted career spanning music, business, and philanthropy.
Major Revenue Streams
| Source | Details |
| Music Royalties | Timeless hits like “Shop Around” and “Cruisin’” generate millions yearly. |
| Songwriting Credits | Contributions to Motown classics performed by Marvin Gaye, Diana Ross, and others. |
| Tours and Live Shows | Despite being 84, Smokey continues to perform, earning significant income from concerts. |
| Real Estate Investments | Luxury properties in California and other prime locations bolster his portfolio. |
| Motown Records | Earnings as a producer, executive, and Vice President under Berry Gordy. |
| Brand Endorsements | Collaborations with major brands and licensing deals for his music catalog. |
Financial Challenges and Management
Robinson’s journey wasn’t without obstacles. In the late 1980s, he battled substance abuse, a personal struggle that impacted his career and finances. With determination and support, he overcame these challenges and adopted strategic financial practices.
Strategic Decisions
- Real Estate Investments: Smokey owns properties in Los Angeles and other prime locations, diversifying his portfolio.
- Licensing Rights: Retaining rights to his music ensures a steady income stream.
Impact of Career Highlights on Net Worth
Career Milestones That Shaped His Wealth
- The Miracles’ Success: Hits like “You’ve Really Got a Hold on Me” became cultural staples.
- Motown Leadership: As Vice President, Robinson influenced the careers of stars like Stevie Wonder and Rick James.
- Collaborations: Partnering with legends like Marvin Gaye enhanced his creative and financial legacy.
Financial Management and Personal Life
Smokey balances his luxurious lifestyle with philanthropy. His wife, Frances Gladney, plays a key role in their charitable activities. They’ve restored historic sites, emphasizing giving back to the community.
Activism and Charitable Causes
Robinson has supported numerous charitable causes, including education programs and initiatives to preserve Detroit’s musical heritage. His philanthropy reflects his belief in giving back and leaving a lasting impact.
Later Years and Legacy
At 84, Smokey remains active, releasing new music and touring globally. His influence on the music industry is unparalleled, earning accolades like induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and multiple Grammy Awards.
Smokey Robinson on Social Media
Smokey engages with fans through platforms like Instagram, Facebook, TikTok, and YouTube, sharing updates on his music and personal life.
| Platform | Followers (2025) |
| 1.2 million | |
| 900,000 | |
| TikTok | 500,000 |
| YouTube | 800,000 |
FAQ’s
How Much Money Did Smokey Robinson Make?
Smokey Robinson has earned millions from his decades-long career in the music industry. His income streams include royalties from songwriting, album sales, touring, and roles at Motown Records, with his net worth estimated at $150 million.
What Is the Net Worth of Smokey Robinson?
As of 2025, Smokey Robinson’s net worth stands at $150 million. This wealth is the result of his success as a musician, songwriter, producer, and savvy real estate investor.
How Many Children Does Smokey Robinson Have?
Smokey Robinson has three children: Tamla Claudette Robinson, Trey Robinson, and Berry William Borope Robinson. His children have been a significant part of his life and legacy.
What Was Smokey Robinson’s Biggest Hit?
Smokey Robinson’s biggest hit, “Cruisin’,” remains one of his most iconic songs, beloved by fans for its smooth rhythm and timeless appeal. It cemented his status as a music legend.
How Rich Is Smokey?
With a net worth of $150 million, Smokey Robinson is one of the wealthiest figures in the music industry. His wealth comes from songwriting royalties, touring, and his pivotal role at Motown Records.
How Many Hits Did Smokey Robinson Write?
Smokey Robinson has written over 4,000 songs, many of which became hits performed by himself and other artists. His work includes timeless classics for The Miracles, Marvin Gaye, and Diana Ross.
Why Is Smokey Robinson Famous?
Smokey Robinson is famous for being a pioneer of Motown Records and a legendary singer-songwriter. His soulful voice, iconic hits like “Shop Around,” and contributions to the music industry have earned him international acclaim.
Who Is Smokey’s Wife?
Smokey Robinson is currently married to Frances Gladney, whom he wed in 2002. She has been a supportive partner in his career and philanthropic activities.
Is Jermaine Jackson Rich?
Yes, Jermaine Jackson, a member of the Jackson 5, is also wealthy, though his net worth is significantly less than Smokey Robinson’s. Jermaine’s net worth is estimated at around $5 million.
Why Are Smokey Robinson’s Eyes Blue?
Smokey Robinson’s striking blue-green eyes are a result of a genetic trait inherited from his family. This unique feature has become one of his most recognizable characteristics.
How Many Marriages Has Smokey Robinson Had?
Smokey Robinson has been married twice. His first marriage was to Claudette Rogers, a member of The Miracles, and his second is to his current wife, Frances Gladney.
Conclusion
Smokey Robinson, born William Smokey Robinson Jr. on February 19, 1940, in Detroit, Michigan, is a legendary singer-songwriter with a net worth of $150 million. Known for timeless hits like “Cruisin’” and “Shop Around”, he was a founding member of The Miracles and an integral part of Motown Records.
Over his career, he wrote more than 4,000 songs and collaborated with icons like Marvin Gaye and Diana Ross. He has been married twice, first to Claudette Rogers and now to Frances Gladney, with whom he shares three children. At 84, Smokey Robinson remains a towering figure in the music industry, celebrated for his contributions and lasting cultural impact.
