The Two Loves Of A Motown King: Is Smokey Robinson Married And Who Are His Wives?

As of today, December 18, 2025, Motown icon Smokey Robinson is happily married to his second wife, Frances Robinson (née Gladney). The legendary singer, songwriter, and producer has maintained a private but enduring relationship with Frances for over two decades, following his high-profile first marriage to fellow Miracles member, Claudette Rogers. This deep dive explores the full history of his romantic life, providing the most current details on the King of Motown's family life and the recent headlines that have put his marriage back in the spotlight. Smokey Robinson's personal life has been as storied as his musical career, spanning decades of hits, heartbreak, and finding lasting love later in life. Understanding his current marital status requires looking back at the two significant women who have been his partners, muses, and anchors throughout his incredible journey.

Smokey Robinson: A Complete Biography and Profile

William "Smokey" Robinson Jr. is one of the most influential figures in the history of American music, widely known as the "King of Motown." His career is synonymous with the genre, both as a performer and as a crucial executive.

• Full Name: William Robinson Jr.
• Nickname: Smokey Robinson
• Date of Birth: February 19, 1940
• Age (as of Dec 2025): 85
• Birthplace: Detroit, Michigan, U.S.
• Occupation: Singer, Songwriter, Record Producer, Former Record Executive
• Genres: R&B, Soul, Pop
• Associated Acts: The Miracles (Founder and Frontman)
• Record Labels: Motown, Universal, SBK, Liquid 8, Robso
• First Marriage: Claudette Rogers (m. 1959; div. 1986)
• Current Marriage: Frances Gladney (m. 2002)
• Children: Berry Robinson, Tamla Robinson (with Claudette Rogers), Trey Robinson (with an outside partner)
• Notable Achievements: Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Inductee (1987), National Medal of Arts (2016), Kennedy Center Honoree (2006).

Smokey Robinson’s career spans over six decades, from founding The Miracles in 1955 to his continued work as a solo artist and songwriter. He was instrumental in shaping the "Motown Sound," writing or co-writing over 4,000 songs and producing countless hits for himself and other artists.

Smokey Robinson's First Marriage: Claudette Rogers

Smokey Robinson’s first marriage was to Claudette Rogers, a fellow founding member of The Miracles. Their relationship was the foundation of the group and a major part of the early Motown story.

The First Lady of Motown

Claudette Rogers is often referred to as the "First Lady of Motown" due to her integral role in The Miracles and her marriage to Smokey. They married on November 7, 1959, just as The Miracles were beginning to find fame. The couple had two children together: a son, Berry Robinson, and a daughter, Tamla Robinson, named after the original name of the Motown label. The marriage lasted for 27 years, but it was not without its challenges. Smokey Robinson has been open about having extramarital affairs during this time. The couple eventually divorced in 1986. Despite the separation, they have maintained a civil and supportive relationship over the years, a testament to their long history and shared musical legacy.

The Current Chapter: Marriage to Frances Robinson (Gladney)

After his divorce from Claudette, Smokey Robinson took his time before finding a second long-term partner. He eventually married Frances Gladney in 2002.

Who Is Frances Robinson (née Gladney)?

Frances Robinson is Smokey Robinson's current wife, and their marriage has lasted over two decades, reflecting a period of peace and stability in the star's life. Frances, who is a singer and songwriter herself, reportedly served as the inspiration for one of the tracks on Smokey’s 2023 album, "Gasms," a song titled "I Keep Calling." The couple shares a unique connection: they were both born on the same day, February 19, though Frances is 12 years younger than Smokey. This shared birthday is a charming detail in their enduring relationship.

The Enduring Power of Their Relationship

The marriage between Smokey and Frances is often described as one built on mutual respect and shared interests. They have been seen together at numerous public events, demonstrating a strong, united front. Frances has been a steadfast presence, supporting Smokey throughout his continued career, including his recent tours and new musical endeavors. While they do not have children together, Frances is deeply integrated into Smokey’s life. The couple resides in Los Angeles, maintaining a relatively private life despite the constant public interest in the legendary singer.

Recent Headlines and the 2025 Legal Update

In a development that brought their private life into the public eye, recent reports have connected Frances Robinson to a sensitive legal matter involving her husband.

The May 2025 Allegations

In May 2025, Smokey Robinson was reportedly accused of sexual assault in a lawsuit. What makes this news particularly relevant to his marital status is that his wife, Frances Robinson, was also named in the lawsuit. This kind of legal entanglement is a rare public hurdle for the couple, who have generally kept their relationship out of the tabloids. The mention of Frances in the legal documents indicates that she may be involved in the defense or that the allegations touch upon aspects of their shared life. This is the most current and freshest piece of information regarding the couple's status, showing that Frances remains a key figure in Smokey's life, even during challenging times.

A Life of Enduring Love and Legacy

Despite the recent sensitive news and the long history of his first marriage, the answer to "Is Smokey Robinson married?" remains a definitive yes. He and Frances Robinson have built a life together that has lasted over two decades, solidifying her place as the current First Lady of the Motown legend. Their relationship is a testament to finding love and companionship, even after a high-profile divorce and a lifetime spent in the demanding spotlight of the music industry.