Smokey Robinson - Being With You

Smokey Robinson's "Being With You" album, with its star-studded lineup of A-list duet partners, is a delightful journey through the Motown icon's timeless classics. Released on Tuesday by Verve Records, this record brings together Robinson and a diverse range of stars, including Elton John, John Legend, Steven Tyler, and CeeLo Green, to breathe new life into decades-old, Detroit-born compositions like "My Girl" and "The Tracks of My Tears."

This Randy Jackson-produced masterpiece serves as a spirited testament to the remarkable body of songwriting that not only put Motown on the map but also earned Robinson a well-deserved place in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. It has all the makings of becoming Robinson's most successful album since 1987's "One Heartbeat."

Smokey & Friends revisits some of the most prolific moments in Robinson's career, spanning from the 1962 Miracles hit "You Really Got a Hold on Me" (featuring Aerosmith's Steven Tyler) to the 1981 solo gem "Being With You" (with Mary J. Blige). Among the eleven tracks, four are Robinson-penned tunes that gained fame through other Motown acts, such as the Temptations' "The Way You Do the Things You Do" (with CeeLo Green) and "My Girl" (featuring guitarist John Mayer and singers Miguel, Aloe Blacc, and JC Chasez). These new renditions are masterfully tailored to the genres and personal styles of the guest artists, striking a balance between modern twists and the greatness of their legacy.

The album's creation was a meticulous process, with the Roots providing much of the instrumental work. Jackson began crafting preliminary arrangements last summer, and guest vocalists recorded their parts at various locations around the world. Robinson's contributions were seamlessly integrated during sessions in Los Angeles.

I grew up with these tracks, as many of us did. As our parents were also impacted with the mighty work and the subliminal impact of these songs. For me the big standout track "My Girl," featuring separate vocals from Miguel, Blacc, and Chasez, showcases the professionalism of these artists, making it feel as if they were all in the studio together. Robinson emphasizes the importance of communication and creating a cohesive sound, a feat successfully achieved in this duets album.

Smokey & Friends celebrates Robinson's iconic voice alongside a diverse array of musical styles, from Tyler's rock fireworks to the old rocket man Elton John's hearty pop and Green's buoyant gospel-soul. Robinson's musical adaptability shines through, demonstrating his deep love for music and the freedom he grants to each artist to put their unique spin on his classics.

Some tracks take a more unconventional approach, like Jackson's contemporary R&B arrangement of "My Girl" and James Taylor's earthy folk-rock rendition of Marvin Gaye's "Ain't That Peculiar." Tyler's rock-infused interpretation of "You Really Got a Hold on Me" brings a Beatlesque vibe, which Robinson applauds with affection.

The ability of Smokey's songs to transcend genres is a testament to their enduring strength. Jackson remarks, "A great song is a great song, and that's why you can have a country version, a rock version, a pop version."

At times, Robinson gracefully steps back to allow other artists to shine, demonstrating his humility and respect for their interpretations. It's evident that the project attracted high-powered talents like Elton John, who describes "The Tracks of My Tears" as possibly "the greatest pop song ever written."

Jackson's intention with "Smokey & Friends" was to introduce Robinson's timeless catalogue to both dedicated fans and a new generation of listeners who might be less familiar with his work. He aims to highlight the breadth of Robinson's musical legacy, emphasising that while there are many great singers today, there are few great singer-songwriters like Robinson.

For Robinson, the album represents a deeply satisfying experience—seeing his work interpreted by other talented artists. He reflects on the enduring power of his songs, which continue to resonate with audiences, saying, "If a song meant something at that time, then it means something today, and 50 years from now, it will still mean something."

In a world filled with countless songs, Robinson's work continues to stand out, proving that his music is timeless and cherished by generations past, present, and future. "You can't beat that.