Pushkin.

Smokey Robinson.

As if having one of the most beautiful and distinctive voices of all time weren't enough,

he's also one of the greatest songwriters of all time,

a top-notch producer, engaging performer, and an

indispensable part of the founding and fabric of Motown. In other words, he's an institution of American

music unto himself. But sometimes I wonder if he's hiding in plain sight, if us music lovers take him

for granted. This week, on February 19, 2025, he'll be turning 85 years old.

And because he's been around as long as he has, performing year-round, still putting out albums,

I think maybe we're prone to forget just how monumental he is to music.

With that in mind, and with Smoky preparing to head out for another run on the road,

including a three-night engagement at the Venetian in Las Vegas,

we sat down for a conversation about his life and legacy.

Hopefully it'll be the first of many conversations we have on Broken Record

with the great Smokey Robinson.

This is Broken Record.

Liner Notes for the Digital Age.

I'm Justin Richmond.

Valentine's Day is coming soon.

To mark this annual celebration of love, my show, The Happiness Lab, will be offering two

essential how-to guides on how to meet and keep a romantic partner.

I'm Dr. Laurie Santos, and I'll bring you

...