Smokey Robinson Awarded Prestigious Honour
Motown legend Smokey Robinson has been awarded the ‘Music for Life’ Award by NAMM (National Association of Music Merchants) during their annual convention.
Smokey was singled out due to his role in launching Motown records and his consequent five decades in the music industry. Described as ‘America’s Greatest Living Poet’ by Bob Dylan, Robinson is also known for his enthusiasm for new musical styles and embracing new and emerging talent.
NAMMs’ ‘Music for Life’ award recognises individuals who have demonstrated and supported their vision that the joy of making music is a precious element of daily living for everyone. Previous recipients include Stevie Wonder, Yoko Ono and Quincy Jones, NAMM President and CEO Joe Lammond said, “so much of what we at NAMM stand for is exemplified in the career and life of the legendary Smokey Robinson. His influence on musicians, producers, writers and even sound engineers continues to be profoundly felt today. He is a symbol of creativity and a beacon of inspiration to many. His music is authentic and emotionally real, and it is his ability to touch so many people with this talent that makes Smokey Robinson a true ambassador for music.”
Smokey found early success as a founding member of The Miracles, his creative vision and the group’s success helped Berry Gordy to establish Motown Records with Robinson taking the role of Vice President. As well as penning hits for The Miracles, Mary Wells, Marvin Gaye and The Temptations, Robinson was also an in-house producer and talent scout. Since then he has been inducted into the Rock and Songwriters’ Hall of Fame, has earned a GRAMMY Legend Award and been honoured with the National Medal of The Arts.
This year Smokey is set to release a duets LP which will include a line-up of all-star duet partners who will be performing his classic songs with him. He will also be adding his unique vocals to Englebert Humperdinck’s new album ‘Englebert Calling’.