At 85, Smokey Robinson is still captivating audiences with his music and heartfelt confessions.

In a recent interview, he revealed a shocking truth that has been hidden for decades: he once loved more than one person at the same time.

This revelation not only stirs curiosity but also sheds light on the complexities of love and fame that have shaped his extraordinary life.

“I learned that we are capable of loving more than one person at the same time,” Robinson stated, a reflection on the emotional intricacies he has navigated throughout his career.

From his humble beginnings in Detroit to becoming the soul of American music, Robinson’s journey is filled with passion, heartbreak, and resilience.

Born William Robinson Jr. in 1940, Smokey grew up in the impoverished North End of Detroit.

His early life was marked by family struggles, including the separation of his parents when he was just three years old.

By the age of ten, he had lost his mother, leaving him to live with his sister and her husband in a crowded household.

Despite these challenges, Robinson found solace in music, which became his lifelong passion.

The nickname “Smokey” was given to him by his uncle, who introduced him to cowboy movies and inspired his early love for storytelling.

As a student at Northern High School, Smokey excelled in both sports and the arts, but it was music that anchored him.

In 1955, he formed a DooWop group called the Five Chimes with friends Ronald White and Pete Moore.

The group later evolved into the Miracles, a name that would become synonymous with Motown Records.

In 1957, Smokey and the Miracles met Barry Gordy, the founder of Motown, during a failed audition.

Gordy recognized Robinson’s immense talent, leading to their first recording, “Got a Job,” which marked the beginning of a legendary partnership.

In 1959, the Miracles signed with Tamla Records, and Smokey married Claudet Rogers, who would later become a significant figure in his life.

Their marriage coincided with the rise of Motown, and together they navigated the challenges of fame and family life.

The release of “Shop Around” in 1960 catapulted the label into the spotlight, becoming Motown’s first major hit.

However, the success came at a cost, as Smokey often found himself torn between his career and family obligations.

The pressures of touring and recording took a toll on his marriage, leading to a struggle for balance that would define his personal life.

In the mid-1960s, Smokey faced a pivotal moment when he had to choose between his music career and family life.

Despite his love for Claudet, the demands of the Miracles’ touring schedule kept him away from home for over 200 days a year.

When he was offered a vice-presidential position at Motown, he initially planned to retire to spend more time with his family.

However, the unexpected success of “Tears of a Clown” forced him to stay on for the group’s farewell tour.

By 1971, Smokey gradually withdrew from the Miracles, marking the end of a significant chapter in his life.

His first solo album, “Smokey,” released in 1973, signified his desire to find his own voice apart from the group.

Two years later, he released “A Quiet Storm,” an influential work that redefined modern R&B and showcased his growth as an artist.

During this period, Smokey’s personal life became increasingly complicated.

He and Claudet separated in 1974, their marriage fracturing under the weight of constant touring and emotional distance.

Despite their mutual respect, they lived apart for nearly a decade before officially divorcing in 1986.

In the midst of this turmoil, Smokey fathered a son, Trey, in 1984, resulting from an extramarital relationship.

These experiences of love, guilt, and loss became the foundation for his introspective songwriting during this era.

Amidst the chaos, Diana Ross reentered his life, reigniting a friendship that had begun in their childhood.

Their relationship blossomed into a romantic entanglement, but Smokey acknowledged the complexities involved.

“I was married at the time,” he admitted, reflecting on the emotional contradictions he faced.

Robinson’s career continued to flourish, and he received numerous accolades, including a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 1983.

He was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1987 and won a Grammy Award for “Just to See Her” in 1988.

His contributions to music and culture were recognized with the National Medal of Arts in 1993, presented by the President of the United States.

Smokey remained dedicated to his craft, releasing a series of successful albums that blended soul, jazz, and pop.

In 2002, he married Francis Gladney, who has been a steady presence in his life, helping him find peace after years of turmoil.

Their enduring marriage reflects the stability that Smokey sought after a lifetime of ups and downs in the music industry.

As he entered his 80s, Smokey continued to write and perform, proving that music knows no age limit.

In 2025, he released “What the World Needs Now,” an album filled with messages of hope and inspiration.

“I want people to be inspired,” he said, reflecting his desire to leave a lasting legacy beyond music.

The launch of his Legacy Tour celebrated the 50th anniversary of “A Quiet Storm,” showcasing his enduring appeal.

Despite facing legal challenges and accusations, Smokey remains committed to his art, performing with grace and composure.

His ability to connect with audiences transcends the scandals that occasionally surround him.

Now at 85, Smokey Robinson stands as a testament to the power of honesty in music.

His confessions about love and mistakes remind us that the greatest songs often emerge from vulnerability.

Through every note he sings, Smokey proves that legacy is not confined to the past but lives on in the hearts of those who listen.

If you’ve ever felt a connection to a Smokey Robinson song, you’ve experienced his unique ability to convey emotion through melody.

As he continues to share his story, Smokey Robinson remains a symbol of resilience and artistry, inspiring generations to come.

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