7 Shocking Ways Smokey Robinson Mentored Michael Jackson: The Motown Brotherhood That Defined Pop History

The enduring, multi-generational relationship between Motown legends Smokey Robinson and Michael Jackson is a cornerstone of American music history, a bond forged in the crucible of Berry Gordy’s Detroit empire. As of late 2024 and into 2025, the legacy of both artists continues to make headlines, from Michael Jackson’s massive catalog sale to Sony Music Publishing to Smokey Robinson’s ongoing appearances, such as hosting the 2024 A Motown Christmas Special alongside Halle Bailey.

This deep connection was more than just a passing friendship; it was a foundational mentorship where the 'King of Motown' helped shape the trajectory of the 'King of Pop.' Robinson, as a founding artist, chief songwriter, and executive at Motown Records, was one of the first people to witness the raw talent of the young Michael Jackson, a moment he often recalls with profound admiration. Their shared history provides a unique lens through which to view the evolution of pop music itself.

The Intertwined Biographies: From Motown Executive to King of Pop

The careers of William "Smokey" Robinson Jr. and Michael Joseph Jackson are inextricably linked by the history of Motown Records, a label that launched both to global superstardom. Smokey Robinson, born in 1940, was a Motown pioneer, leading the influential group The Miracles from its inception.

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His role quickly expanded beyond performing; he became a vital songwriter and producer, penning hits like "My Girl" for The Temptations and "The Tracks of My Tears" for The Miracles. Robinson served as Vice President of Motown Records from 1961 to 1988, making him one of the label’s most powerful executives during Michael Jackson’s formative years.

Michael Jackson, born in 1958, began his career as the electrifying lead singer of The Jackson 5, signing with Motown in 1968. Under the guidance of Berry Gordy and the Motown machine, which included Robinson, Michael launched his solo career while still with the group. His early solo albums under Motown included Got to Be There (1972), Ben (1972), Music and Me (1973), and Forever Michael (1975).

Jackson later achieved unprecedented global success with his Epic Records albums, including the iconic Off the Wall (1979) and Thriller (1982), which became his first number 1 album and a record-breaker. Despite Jackson’s eventual move away from Motown, the early executive and artistic influence of mentors like Smokey Robinson remained a defining factor in his development.

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"A Little James Brown": Smokey’s First Impression of The Jackson 5

One of the most revealing anecdotes about the relationship centers on Smokey Robinson’s first sighting of the young Michael Jackson. As a Motown executive and one of the label's most trusted artistic minds, Robinson was present when The Jackson 5 auditioned. He immediately recognized the raw, explosive talent of the 10-year-old Michael.

Robinson famously recalled that upon seeing Michael cover songs by artists like James Brown, he thought the young performer was "a little James Brown," an observation that spoke volumes about Michael's powerful stage presence and precocious talent. This early assessment by a Motown veteran validated the group's potential and cemented their place at the label.

The connection was further deepened through music. Robinson is the original songwriter of the classic song "Who's Loving You," which he wrote for The Miracles. When The Jackson 5 covered the song in 1969, it became one of their most beloved and enduring tracks, largely showcasing Michael’s astonishing vocal range and emotional depth at a young age.

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Smokey has frequently praised Michael’s rendition, highlighting it as one of his favorite re-makes of his own work. This shared musical entity—a song written by the mentor and perfectly executed by the protégé—is a powerful symbol of their artistic bond and the passing of the Motown torch to the next generation.

The Post-Motown Brotherhood: From 'Moonwalk' to Mourning

As Michael Jackson transitioned from the Motown Era to his solo superstardom with albums like Thriller and Bad, his friendship with Smokey Robinson evolved from an executive-artist relationship into a genuine, familial bond. Smokey often described Michael as being like a "younger brother" to him, a sentiment that speaks to the deep affection and mutual respect they shared throughout their lives.

Robinson continued to be one of Michael’s most ardent supporters and admirers. He was present for some of Michael's most iconic career moments, including the debut of the legendary "moonwalk" during a performance of "Billie Jean." Smokey later shared the backstory of the dance move, providing insight into its origins and Michael’s genius in popularizing it globally.

Their connection extended to major collaborative efforts outside of Motown. Both were among the all-star lineup of musicians who recorded the charity single "We Are the World" in 1985, a project that united the biggest names in music and further cemented their status as global icons.

Following Michael Jackson's tragic death in 2009, Smokey Robinson was vocal about his grief and the injustice of the intense media scrutiny Michael faced. He openly criticized the "atrocious" media coverage, emphasizing the loss of a true friend and a musical genius who had been unfairly judged.

Robinson’s defense of Michael, even after his passing, highlights the loyalty and protective nature of their brotherhood, contrasting sharply with the criticisms leveled by some others in the industry, such as Quincy Jones.

The Lasting Legacy: Topical Authority and Motown's Enduring Influence

The shared history of Smokey Robinson and Michael Jackson is a powerful testament to the enduring influence of Motown Records. The label not only provided the platform for their individual successes but also fostered a community of legends, including Stevie Wonder, Marvin Gaye, Diana Ross and The Supremes, and The Temptations.

Robinson’s role as both a leading artist with hits like "Cruisin'" and "A Quiet Storm" and a record executive ensured that he was a constant presence in Michael’s early life, providing guidance that transcended mere musical advice.

This legacy remains highly relevant today. In 2024, Michael Jackson’s estate finalized the sale of half of his music catalog to Sony Music Publishing for an estimated $600 million, a transaction that underscores the monumental financial and cultural value of the music he created, much of which has roots in his Motown beginnings.

Simultaneously, Smokey Robinson continues to honor the Motown tradition, serving as a host for the 2024 A Motown Christmas Special, a clear indication that the generation of artists he represents is still actively shaping the music landscape.

The stories of Smokey and Michael—the mentor who saw a "little James Brown" and the protégé who became the King of Pop—are not just footnotes in music history. They are the essential narrative of how one generation of genius inspired the next, ensuring that the sound of Motown, and the spirit of their brotherhood, will continue to resonate for decades to come.