Smokey Robinson Tells Story of "The Tears of a Clown"

Video interview with Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Inductee and legendary Motown man Smokey Robinson, who shares the inspiration and story behind one of the Miracles' and Motown's biggest hits, "The Tears of a Clown," including working with Stevie Wonder.

[@TheRabidPosum]

What a humble guy. Talking so highly about Stevie, I wonder if Smokey realizes how much of a creative genius he is himself.

[@scottakanumba1heathen379]

Smokey is a genius, Kanye THINKS of himself as one but isn't.

[@TheRabidPosum]

@@scottakanumba1heathen379 Kanye is a jackass, as president Obama once stated. Not only does he have no talent I lost all respect for him after what he did to Taylor Swift.

[@patmcpee]

To: The RabidPosum- Of course he was a humble guy. But to think that he doesn’t realize how much of a mark he’s had on music is buying humility. He’s polite- and like he said, he Loves him some Stevie (Ha! Who don’t?). He’s way too smart to underestimate the impact that he’s had, and continues to have, on music. Smokey has written almost 40 Top 40 songs. That’s remarkable! Even being a young White kid, I was bowled over when I heard “Ooo, Baby Baby.” How could you not be? All that emotion (and Second Hand Emotion!). That young White kid was a young hippie who was overwhelmed by the BeaTles. I was once having a discussion with a coworker, and when I bragged about the songwriting and arrangement abilities of Lennon & McCartney, adding that “They wrote over 200 songs! he layed some knowledge

[@patmcpee]

...on me that was beyond belief. So much so that I ran to look it up and research it. Sit down now. Smokey Robinson doesn’t only have Tears Of A Clown, Ooo, Baby Baby and Motown under his belt- That M.A.N. has written over 4000 songs. That’s right. FOUR THOUSAND SONGS! And he’s still going. Go ahead and google now!

[@patmcpee]

I meant “beyond humility.”

[@andrew5184]

I could listen to him talk and tell stories for days.

[@57stratkat]

Heard this song on the radio while driving yesterday and was struck again with what an amazing song it is - just brilliant on every level.

[@pauljackson2409]

Stevie Wonder plus Smokey Robinson -how could that be anything less than brilliant?

[@jessvolina6007]

Even if you’re from another planet and don’t like his music, there is a such a warmth to him, humble and kind. Then his accomplishments! The man is a National treasure.

[@rjg7112]

He is talking about a song recorded by a teenager. The music was recorded in 1967, the year of Stevie's 17th birthday, three years before it was released as a single.

[@walterwhite1]

Just heard this man on coast to coast a.m. what a legend

[@marysalisbury9270]

Coast to Coast AM..❤

[@johnasti5239]

This interview shows the depth of Smokey. He knows the story of the Italian opera and interoperates the meaning of the clown and like the genius he is writes an amazing song. He talks about Stevie''s genius, I don't think he realizes his own..

[@Larry-vc5qv]

Tears is a unique jam. Timeless.

[@RichardRodriguez-cx1jc]

Humility....Smokey will forever be number one in my book.

[@johnclark4593]

The Man was so great, even the Beatles were in awe of him.

[@mikeuher5054]

IS, not was.

[@kaspafischer]

Bob Dylan too, by the way

[@zaratgreen2095]

The Tears Of A Clown, a masterpiece of songwriting and music composition.

[@mitcheltheman1366]

The irony that the song has such a happy carefree feel to it in spite of its lyrics. Not sure if it was intentional or not, but Smokey has made an anthem. :)

[@douglas2902]

One of my favorite motown songs nothing short of a masterpiece

[@mortensenegbert6619]

Such a warm human being, such a sparkle of electric creativity he gives off just telling a story. And, as Bob Dylan once said, possibly "America's greatest poet."

[@sheiladavis6523]

Why don't we just thank God for Smokey & Stevie - Amen November 4,2020

[@hattiem.7966]

Wow,what a story! I never new the history behind my fav song!! I was 15 when this song came out.I loved it the minute I heard it on the radio.

[@cindyweir9645]

I had the pleasure of seeing Stevie Wonder open for Smokey Robinson and the Miracles in Detroit when Stevie had his first hit Fingertips, He was 12. It was at a popular dance hall, if you can believe it. Wow Stevie killed it on that harmonica. The Miracles were fab also. In those days I think we just called them the Miracles.

[@garrygilbert4635]

This is why this song is so amazing.

[@leehudson2414]

Wow listen at Smokey explain the history of Tears of a Clown. Nobody would never know this if u didn't hear this..amazing talents n greats God bless Smokey n Stevie Wonder such a great song

[@lucasjames572]

Definitely a Miracle on both Stevie & Smokey.

[@ItsMeMissV369]

My fav Smokey song. This story is amazing, the lyrics & music together are priceless. The circus music, the Pagliacci inspiration, the relation to life. When asked "how are you?" so many of us smile and say 'fine' when our hearts may be breaking inside, only to let out the tears 'when there's no one around.' Such an amazing altogether song

[@edgarfletcher2133]

Tell it girl......

[@michmex220]

Yes !! You said it so perfectly! That’s exactly how I felt as well !!

[@caretakercain1673]

Smokey left the Miracles right after "Tears". He knew it was their final statement together. Smokey joining compositional forces with Stevie. Brilliant lyrics meeting ingenious music; damn, what a way to go out!

[@ham5481]

GENIUS!

[@lincolnparc8897]

and that folks is why I Smokey Robinson is just GREAT!

[@DanFrechette]

This man is the greatest songwriter. A true genius that really did what any great songwriter should do. He's blessed so many lives with his spirit. You've inspired countless songs to be written, including my own.

[@juansolo7462]

Dan Frechette not to mention outside of music, he spent a few days at the VA and spent time with a buddy of mine (27 years old) a few days before he passed. Very spiritual guy. Smokey is a Great man

[@matthewshannon7019]

a creative genius collaboration. Out of this world!

[@wileycousins9698]

Smokey is a stone cold genius.

[@rosemarymagrino772]

So is Stevie!

[@362chop]

One of a kind that Smokey, legend.

[@arkady714]

Summer 1970 to this very day, Tears of a Clown has always been my favorite song.

[@paulgardner9763]

One very special shining star in Motown's glittering firmament :)

[@syleriam]

John Lennon's favorite singer...Is so glad to have you Smokey, thanks for the Joy.

[@UmOmar]

Not to take anything away from the great Smokey Robinson, however, John Lennon is better known for loving Harry Nilsson's voice.

[@user-hd9nc7zp1v]

​@@UmOmarjohn Lennon loved Karen Carpenter's voice too.

[@davidwood1923]

I Love this guy.... Thanks for Sharing

[@edwardanthony7283]

Smokey, you are something special! Still love that song.

[@HenryPerez_royal_hp]

Holy smoke, no pun intended :) what an amazing story! GENIUS!!

[@nicholas_ablong]

lol the pun was funny xD

[@lolus8974]

Pun definitely intended lol

[@rewind2play]

Brilliant.. Love this guys so humble...

[@dianeajohnson5375]

Motown must be remembered as the greatest visionary gift given to America!!.too much talent came from The state of Michigan. Music,academic and sports. Hot dam!! The state of uptown funk.

[@sharonedwards6010]

The intro to this song is just as legendary as the song.

[@rosyorose1061]

Wow!!....Smokey Robinson and Stevie Wonder.....what a collaboration.....I first heard this at age 12 and I've loved it ever since..now I know the story behind it ....it blows me away....

[@thespy7795]

I kept TELLING people that Stevie Wonder wrote the music to Tears Of A Clown. Now I am Vindicated!

[@samsonmorrell]

The Spy Nothing like being vindicated aye lol

[@horizontoday7874]

The Spy Correct! And Smokey composed the lyrics

[@anybodycangetit-e1s]

The Spy I knew that as well I don’t see why anyone would not believe you why would you make that up?

[@jbelafonte]

And Stevie was only 16 years old when he composed the music for Tears Of A Clown. Can you get to that?!

[@thespy7795]

@@anybodycangetit-e1s Because they're know it alls. They said Stevie had NOTHING to do with the record. I feel good that this video was uploaded!

[@SilviaSteri]

my wonderful favorite singers Stevie Wonder and Smokey Robinson! Two top class music icons! Those voices...I love all songs, unique music that is timeless. And... my god, that look from Smokey Robinson... his green eyes, what a beautiful person... Love also his song... tracks of my tears...

[@elainewaller-rose9707]

My favorite song ever. The lyrics. The music. The intro. Smokey's angelic voice. The bassoon! Thanks for uploading.

[@samsmith7585]

It is the perfect pop song!

[@GT47179]

Definitely one of my favorites

[@carolkhan8081]

what a beautiful looking man.

[@horizontoday7874]

Carol Khan It's the eye liner.

[@Davidblaine18]

degree7 wow!!!! You’re brilliant! I thought they are PINK

[@arethamorgan6613]

@Degree7 They look green.

[@punkanellylovejoy702]

You can just forget it Carol, he's mine.

[@sheiladavis6523]

@@punkanellylovejoy702 I guess Smokey is the bright colors of the rainbow 🌈 ☺November 4,2020

[@philipjp01]

Smokey and Stevie...Great combination!

[@happyhealthierlife2845]

Excellent, the Song and the Story. It never gets old!!

[@confusedbyzebras6348]

This story just blows my mind! When this came out I was a 10 year old kid in a musical family in south Jersey and listening to everything on WIBG and WFIL out of Philly. This song mesmerized me like no music had ever done! It still does. I've had a great musical life, raised a family, survived cancer, lost my singing voice to age and am physically feeling my years. Every time I hear this golden biscuit I am transported back to my childhood and I feel like I'm seeing spirits. If that ain't magic people I don't know what is!

[@gerardferrara4387]

All the best to you, loved reading your comments, regards from Australia

[@jameskeyes1131]

Two of the greatest musical geniuses of the 20th Century. The instrumental introduction is my favorite part. My favorite Motown song.

[@myriaddsystems]

What a gentleman! Such a very decent man - who spoke from the heart and knew how to convey real emotions. And I'm speaking as a a white guy from the UK....

[@dallykaur2646]

Wow. One of the most perfect relatable songs, and it's amazing to know its origins.

[@anthonyhantonh]

This guy is a class act.

[@jeffjeannette9364]

Born and raised in SW Detroit (River Rouge to be precise) and have seen Smokey Robinson perform twice. Once at the State Theater, once at the Fox. I never knew the story behind this song. I'm so lucky to have had a father as knowledgeable in all things Doo-Wop, especially Motown, and at the age of five I knew more about it than many adults, and this was in the 1990's. Wish my pop was still here so I could quiz the wiz. Missing you Dad, ♥️🙏

[@michaelmorris3008]

Oh what beautiful eyes he has!! Such a living legacy. Much love for this man!! ✌

[@WilberWiley]

Wow what a great story teller. I saw SR when I was a kid at the Michigan state fair back in the mid 60s. He was too cool. I miss his music. Great person.

[@guitartownguns]

Wow...great story...great song. Love me some Smokey.

[@springer90]

Tears of a Clown is one of the best songs ever written!

[@rollerchickable]

I LOVE THIS SONG, YOU PUT IT TOGETHER SMOKEY ROBINSON, GOD BLESS YOU AND STEVIE WONDER, THANK YOU FOR SHARING.

[@dtmchemistry5279]

Wow what a great story. Smokey you're the best.

[@stephenmiller2337]

What a great story, and what a great storyteller.

[@robertsansone1680]

That was a great story, & a great song.

[@1111hami]

Two geniuses...Thank-you both.

[@scottrayford871]

This story just touches my heart and soul because he's telling my story. Being a musician myself, and well known amongst the people who know me, I'm Patiacci the clown. Great interview Smoke!

[@mvamedia5199]

Thank you.

[@mlech6634]

Echoing the sentiments of most comments here, I have deep respect and admiration for Mr. Robertson's unique talent and his impressive humility. Tears has been a favorite song 🎵 since I was a kid. The story behind the story is always fascinating when the artists share it. Thank you for the memories and enriching our cultural experience, Smokey and Stevie both! Whether it's Smokey Robinson, Sting, Stevie Wonder, Mark Knopfler, Scott Weiland or myriad others weaving creative verse, their inspirations like Smokey's with Pagliacci show much deeper and worldly experience than we might imagine. Goes to show how important education and curiosity are for realizing our potential & what we share with the world.

[@mamareed810]

Smokey's story of how his song came to be, makes me think of another person with out love. A person who had all the love & adoration from the world, yet no personal love at home...brings to my mind The POW...Her Royal highness, The Princess of Wales, Lady Diana Spencer. A True Royal Princess, not only in People's Hearts, but a Lady in her own Family Lineage. LOVE Smokey's song: Tears of a Clown.

[@dynjarren8355]

Amazing how the music inspired the lyrics. A true collaboration! He heard circus music and that made him think of a sad clown and then he remembered Pagliachhi an Italian opera about a sad clown. Brilliant how he put it all together to create a pop soul classic!

[@morrisman64]

A great story

[@atreyuprincipalh4043]

This Gentleman Is a Great Influence,God bless your talent!

[@alanstevenson-graham6268]

What a story from a humble genius

[@jc6594]

Happy 80th Birthday Smokey Robinson

[@sergioneumann9591]

Cación que me marcó a principios de 1970....la recuerdo con mucha nostalgia...

[@chillywillie6283]

I love hearing the story behind a great song.

[@davidking4838]

Great story about a great song.

[@clydeb7713]

Genius. Voice smooth as silk.

[@edwinkirkland8856]

Thank you smokes

[@glouconx983]

So the actual of the creation of the song was just as profound and miraculous as the finished product.

[@Scotttyist]

So great to hear a master lyricist talk about his inspiration and to give insights into how he came to write them. Cheers.

[@stoneblue1795]

Glad I caught this one. Neat story, and I love the song.

[@jcincorporated6207]

Damn... that’s just so beautifully explained.

[@alprince1999]

CLASS. Also one of my favorites voices ever, legend.

[@stoneblue1795]

Brilliant. Timeless.

[@srianna0416]

Wish there was a full documentary about his life

[@samthesham6249]

l remember Mary singing back in 1962 .."Some other girls are filling your head with jive..so now your acting like you don't know that l am alive.."The one who really loves you. l was 6yrs old in first grade..wow l am 61now. where did the time go?

[@clydeb7713]

Great song from a great era in music.

[@mxd6]

Great artists working with great artists, make great music that will last for ever.

[@Donno6]

Great piece of history right here 👍🏽

[@adamrubin7531]

Gotta love Smokey!!

[@bigpeaches1744]

I'm like the rest of you I never knew the story around Tears of a Clown. I love Smokey so much that when he or the Miracles came out with a record, I will buy before I even heard it because it's got Smokey singing and I knew I'm going to love it.

[@waynechason5855]

Such a smart and humble man!

[@scottakanumba1heathen379]

The bassoon line in Tears made the song!

[@TheJust22az]

As a kid, I wore my little 45 vinyl out. It ranks up there as one of my all time favorites.

[@DrHogfan]

If this song is anything it's Rock N Roll , MAN ! I still love this song and think it's one of the best RNR tunes ever. Wow ...had no idea Stevie Wonder wrote the music. The drumming in this song is just mindblowing.

[@ARIGROSSMAN]

What a wonderful interview..I'll always love this song too...

[@justinnielsen8737]

A couple of things to add... The song was recorded in 1967 and was not released as a single. In the UK, Tracks of my Tears was released and was a #9 single 4 years after it peaked in the US. They needed to release another song, so they decided on Tears of a Clown in July 1970. 7 weeks later it was #1 in the UK- so Motown decided to release the song in the US as well, where it became a #1 8 weeks after release. Hard to believe that one of the biggest (and best) songs of the early 70's was a 3-4 year old album cut! The opera "Pagliacci" is indeed a very sad story. The lead character's wife was having an affair with someone else in the circus. The lead ends up killing her on stage and killing her lover too. Probably would not have made it on the radio in that era though.

[@horizontoday7874]

Justin Nielsen Right! I'm surprised Smokey didn't inform us that it was released 3 yrs later!

[@jenniferm6042]

Lovely song! Wonderful musician.. best modern day bassoon song!

[@charityshoptreasures2569]

Well I love you in stories the song came about I love Stevie wonder and I love to see him when he's much much younger on his harmonica🌟 but give yourself some credit too🌟 Mr Robinson when you write such Great lyrics and sing 🤩 you bring the whole song to life

[@dyonomitereacher8140]

THE, I SAY THEEEE GREATEST SONGWRITER IN THE LAST 150 YEARS

[@adlaiwordsworth4192]

Legendary, just Incredible......

[@t.c.o.g.773]

Damnnnnnnn nuff said classic lesson on many levels🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥

[@djtruedomination]

This is deep

[@rcstafford1]

YES, and the inspiration.....f

[@punkanellylovejoy702]

I've got something that's even deeper big boy!

[@Neilxtc]

Awesome. Never knew this but great track and great lyrics