#412 of 500
· Rolling Stone
Going to a Go Go
Smokey Robinson and the Miracles
Year
1965
Genre
Soul/R&BLabel
Format
Vinyl LP
“Going to a Go Go by Smokey Robinson and the Miracles (1965) sits at #412 and earns every bit of it. The back half of the RS500 is where the interesting debates live. The original pressing is built for vinyl playback — the kind of album that sounds better on wax.”
Smokey Robinson and the Miracles were one of Motown Records' most successful and influential acts, active from 1955 to 1972. Robinson, born William Moore Robinson Jr., co-founded the group and served as their primary songwriter, producer, and lead vocalist. The Miracles achieved remarkable chart success with hits like "Shop Around" (1960), "The Tracks of My Tears" (1965), and "Love Machine" (1975), helping establish Motown's signature sound. Robinson's sophisticated songwriting and smooth vocal delivery elevated the group beyond typical vocal harmony traditions. After the Miracles disbanded, Robinson pursued a successful solo career, cementing his legacy as one of soul music's greatest artists and songwriters. His work with the group and as a solo artist has sold millions of records worldwide.
Style
Smokey Robinson and the Miracles performed smooth soul and R&B with intricate vocal harmonies, sophisticated production, and pop sensibility. Their sound blended Motown's polished production style with genuine emotional depth and jazz-influenced instrumentation.
Significance
The Miracles are essential to any Motown vinyl collection, representing the label's peak era of innovation and commercial success. Robinson's songwriting and arranging techniques influenced countless soul, pop, and R&B artists, making their vinyl catalog foundational to understanding modern music history.
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