# Smokey Robinson at 84: Unveiling the Hidden Bonds with The Temptations

At 84, Smokey Robinson breaks decades of silence, reflecting on his legendary partnership with The Temptations. “They were like family, but sometimes family fights the hardest,” he admits, revealing untold stories of harmony, tension, and resilience that shaped Motown history.

Born in Detroit to working-class parents, Robinson’s early life instilled resilience. His mother died when he was 10, and his sister raised him. Initially aspiring to dentistry, he discovered his passion for singing, leading to the Miracles and a fateful Motown meeting with The Temptations in the early 1960s.

Barry Gordy paired them, elevating their raw talent with Robinson’s songwriting. Hits like “The Way You Do the Things You Do” and “My Girl” showcased their synergy, blending melody with emotion.

Success brought pressures. David Ruffin, a charismatic lead singer, clashed with the group over solos and control. “David wanted the spotlight,” Robinson noted, leading to tensions that fractured the team. In 1968, after missed rehearsals and arguments, The Temptations dismissed Ruffin, sparking drama that fans felt deeply.

Post-Ruffin, the group evolved. Dennis Edwards joined, infusing new energy into psychedelic soul tracks like “Cloud Nine.” Lineup shifts tested cohesion, but they adapted, pushing boundaries while honoring roots.

In 2025, controversy erupted when four former housekeepers accused Robinson of misconduct over years, filing a $50 million lawsuit. He denied the claims, calling them “false,” and vowed to defend his integrity. The case, set for trial in 2027, highlighted public scrutiny of icons.

Despite storms, Robinson reconciled with surviving Temptations members. “Smokey was more than a producer—he was a brother,” Otis Williams shared. Robinson, who tried retiring in 1972 but returned, credits music for his “wonderful life.”

Their legacy endures. Robinson cherishes the Apollo Theater, his debut stage, and plans a final performance before its renovation. Together, they influenced generations, transcending feuds and controversies through art. “Music is my life,” Robinson says, focused on joy and connection.