Robinson Records Jackson Tribute

14 February 2010
Smokey Robinson

Picture: Smokey Robinson R&B singer-songwriter out and about in Manhattan New York City, USA - 10.09.09

Robinson Records Jackson Tribute

Smokey Robinson decided to keep his version of Jackson 5 classic I WANT YOU BACK as a secret track on his new album because he didn't want to be accused of exploiting the death of Michael Jackson.

The soul legend re-recorded the 1969 song for Time Flies When You're Having Fun before Jackson died last June (09), and Robinson wanted to keep it on the disc in honour of his late pal.

But the 69 year old made sure the track was "hidden".

He explains, "It's the first record the Jackson 5 made when they came to Motown. I always loved that song and I always wanted to make an adult version. It was for Michael to hear. Then he died.

"I loved Michael very much, Michael was my brother. I hadn't talked with Michael in, like, 10 years but we had a great relationship.

"His death was a tremendous shock, an unbelievable thing to find out. I didn't want people to think I was exploiting the fact that he'd died so it became a hidden track."


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Tags: Smokey Robinson - Jackson 5 - Michael Jackson

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Comments View All Comments (3)

15th February 2010 12:00

lmiky     (160)

Thank you Mr.Robinson for your respect for Michael,i know he is ok with it and happy too.God bless your work and may the love of Michael go on forever.Will always miss you Michael.

15th February 2010 04:00

girlygirlymormor     (142)

oh baby give me one more chance (to show you that I love you)won't you please let me (back in your heart)oh darling i was blind,...to let you go. Nowsence I see you in his armsoh oh baby.I want you back.Mr. Robinson, this is a old song that was a number one hit when we were in Morgan Village middle schoolI have been a fan of the Jackson's five. Ever sinceI am now fifty year old. can you beleive I am still crying over the Jackson 5 as if I was still a teeniebober. This is what you call I con.You say you are 69 years old I am a fan of yours toothey called you the Philadelphia town cryer. I enjoy you music thank you for many hours of soul music. I am from NJ.

15th February 2010 01:00

jacqueline.capucine     (1381)

Mr. Robinson Not having your friend MICHAEL JACKSONanymore must be very difficult for you as it is to all of us who Loves MICHAEL.You seem to be a very caring person.A loyal fan of MICHAEL JACKSON.

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