Smokey Robinson’s net worth is a testament to his long and prosperous career in the music industry.
Known for pioneering the Motown sound and creating timeless hits with The Miracles, Smokey Robinson is not only a legendary singer but also a successful songwriter and music executive.
His financial journey is fascinating, ranging from chart-topping albums to strategic business moves that have significantly boosted his wealth.
Let’s dive into the details of Smokey Robinson’s wealth, salary, and financial outlook in 2025.
Smokey Robinson Quick Facts
FACT | DETAIL |
---|---|
Real Name | William “Smokey” Robinson Jr. |
Popular Name | Smokey Robinson |
Birth Date | February 19, 1940 |
Age | 85 (as of February 2025) |
Birthplace | Detroit, Michigan, USA |
Nationality | American |
Ethnicity | African-American |
Education | Studied electrical engineering but dropped out to pursue music |
Marital Status | Married (Frances Gladney, 2002) / Divorced (Claudette Rogers) |
Spouse | Frances Gladney (m. 2002), Claudette Rogers Robinson (m. 1959–1986) |
Children | Tamla Claudette Robinson, Berry William Borope Robinson, Trey Robinson |
Dating | N/A |
Siblings | N/A |
Parents | Flossie Robinson, William Robinson |
Height | 1.79 m |
Net Worth | $150 Million |
Source of Wealth | Music career, songwriting, producing, real estate investments |
What is the Net Worth Of Smokey Robinson in 2025?
Smokey Robinson’s net worth in 2025 is estimated to be $150 million. His wealth is largely a result of his groundbreaking role in the Motown sound and his significant solo career. Robinson’s financial portfolio includes revenue from his music royalties, live performances, songwriting, and savvy real estate investments. Compared to other R&B legends such as Marvin Gaye and Stevie Wonder, Smokey stands out as one of the wealthiest and most influential figures in the genre. His ongoing success in the music industry and beyond continues to grow his wealth, making him a notable figure among the richest celebrities.
- Marvin Gaye
- Stevie Wonder
- The Temptations
- Berry Gordy
- The Miracles
- Smokey Robinson’s other collaborators
- Temptations
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Smokey Robinson Wealth, Salary and Financial Overview
How Did He Build His Wealth?
Smokey Robinson’s wealth is deeply tied to his extraordinary career in music. As a member of The Miracles, he helped shape the early Motown sound, which became a global sensation. His connection with Motown founder Berry Gordy set the stage for a series of hits like “Shop Around,” “I Second That Emotion,” and “Tears of a Clown,” all of which brought significant financial success.
In addition to his performance and songwriting, Robinson contributed greatly to the Motown label’s rise to prominence, eventually becoming the vice president of Motown Records. His behind-the-scenes work, including songwriting for other artists and producing tracks, provided another lucrative source of income.
What Are His Main Sources of Income?
Smokey Robinson’s primary sources of income come from his vast music career. His earnings include royalties from the numerous songs he wrote for The Miracles, his solo work, and contributions to other Motown artists like Marvin Gaye and The Temptations. His music royalties continue to bring in income, thanks to the timeless nature of many of his hits.
Robinson’s live performances also generate considerable earnings. His tours, though less frequent today, continue to attract fans eager to experience his iconic voice and stage presence. Additionally, his role as a producer and songwriter for other artists in the Motown era has helped diversify his income streams.
Robinson’s involvement in real estate also plays a role in his financial portfolio. Over the years, he has bought and sold luxury properties, including an estate in Encino, Los Angeles, that sold for $2.3 million in 2002 and another in Chatsworth, California, sold for $7.99 million in 2014.
How Much Does He Earn from His Music Career?
The financial success of Smokey Robinson’s music career is clear. In addition to the revenue generated from song royalties and album sales, he continues to earn from licensing his music for movies, TV shows, and commercials. His songs are often used in various forms of media, keeping his music relevant and his income steady.
Tours and live performances also add significantly to his earnings. While not as frequent as in his earlier years, Smokey’s shows remain popular and contribute significantly to his wealth. His work as a guest on other artists’ projects further boosts his income, making him a sought-after figure in the music industry.
What Financial Moves Did He Make for Long-Term Wealth?
Robinson’s financial success isn’t just a result of his music career; it’s also about how he managed his earnings over the years. Beyond his music, Robinson made savvy investments, particularly in real estate. His various properties have appreciated over time, adding significantly to his financial worth.
Robinson also capitalized on his position as a vice president of Motown, helping steer the label to financial success while securing his own personal wealth. His diverse portfolio, including real estate and music ventures, shows that Smokey Robinson is not just a musician but a savvy businessman as well.
Conclusion
Smokey Robinson’s journey from a Motown star to a financially successful entrepreneur is an inspiration.
His wealth is a result of both his musical contributions and his smart business moves. Want to know more about other celebrities’ fortunes?
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