Smokey Robinson Responds to Theory Suggesting He Wrote a Song Inspired by Diana Ross’s Novel

Smoki Robinson Addresses Song Theories

Smoki Robinson responded to speculation that his song was inspired by his alleged romance with Diana Ross, clarifying that he “could not experience everything” he wrote about in his music.

Insights from Motown Icon

The Motown legend, now 84 years old, spoke with Time about his music, the soul genre, and his experiences with artists like The Beatles and Marvin Gaye. He was also questioned about his 1975 track “The Agony and The Ecstasy,” specifically whether it reflected his relationship with Diana Ross at the time.

In the interview, he affectionately called Ross “baby” and remarked: “As the author of the songs, I could not experience everything that I wrote about, and this song seemed a good idea because many people were in such a situation.”

“I know Diana Ross from eight years old, dude! She is precious to me. She is my longest friend. Oh yes, she is my baby.”

According to Musical News, Robinson was married to Claudette Robinson for over ten years when he had an affair with Ross.

Robinson went on to share: “I lead a rather normal life. I am married to a wonderful woman. I get in my car; I don’t need a driver or anyone else to take me wherever I go. I am in show business, so people recognize me, but I am not against it, because it is part of life. When I see how people stumble over fame, dude, it’s so stupid!”

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fma2pdxzgoi

Upcoming Performances and Legacy

In other news regarding Smoki Robinson, he will perform his first British show in over 15 years this summer in East Sussex. He is set to headline the Love Supreme Jazz Festival in Glynde, South Downs, taking place from July 4 to 6. You can find tickets here.

Alongside Robinson, a diverse lineup of artists will perform, including En Vogue, The Sacred Souls, Branford Marsalis, Sampa the Great, Jamila Woods, War, Arji Aftab, and Durand Jones and The Indications.

Robinson is celebrated as one of the most influential songwriters in soul history, known for being a key member of Motown’s The Miracles. He has also penned classic hits for other artists, including “My Girl” and “Get Ready” for The Temptations, “Ain’t That Peculiar” for Marvin Gaye, and “My Guy” for Mary Wells.

Last year, the musician confirmed that he was negotiating to perform at the Glastonbury Festival in 2024, which ultimately did not come to fruition. “This is one of the things we talked about,” he said, adding that he “absolutely” loves to perform at prestigious events like Glastonbury. “I love Great Britain, dude. We had some of our greatest times in the UK.”