THE EDITED PRESS RELEASE: “Four-time Grammy winner Smokey Robinson delivers What The World Needs Now, a soulful, musical journey blending timeless classics with original songs that offer inspiration and encouragement. Featuring his smooth, iconic voice and warm, heartfelt renditions of Lean On Me, What A Wonderful World, Be Thankful For What You’ve Got and more, this recording reminds us of the countless beauties of everyday life and the joys of love, unity and gratitude.
Robinson’s soulful vulnerability have swept audiences away for over 60 years. Last month, he turned 85, but his unmistakable voice is as smooth and timeless as ever. His mellifluous tone, impeccable delivery, and expressive vibrato are as heavenly now as they were decades ago. Robinson eases his honeyed tenor into a reggae lilt on his version of Bob Marley’s 1977 classic, Three Little Birds. He captivates on What A Wonderful World, a song originally made famous by Louis Armstrong in 1967. Here, Robinson’s buttery vocals melt beautifully over lavish strings, crystalline piano, subtly gorgeous acoustic guitar accompaniment, and dreamy, stacked backup vocals.
Robinson has been called inspiring and iconic, and he was called “America’s greatest living poet” by none other than Bob Dylan. He has over 4,000 songs to his credit, and he’s sold out shows all over the world for many decades. And he shows no sign of slowing down. This year finds Robinson celebrating the 50th anniversary of his 1975 breakthrough solo album Quiet Storm. His upcoming Legacy Tour will highlight the album anniversary and celebrate all his top hits throughout the decades.
Somehow, amid album commemorations and getting ready for the road, Robinson found time to go into the studio and record a soul-stirring song collection bursting with hope, love, and unity. What The World Needs Now is an inspirational album in a time where people need timeless music with a message. The 10-track album includes heartfelt renditions of classics and originals. What The World Needs Now was produced by Warryn Campbell (Yolanda Adams, Jennifer Hudson, Stevie Wonder).
Robinson has won numerous awards, including a Grammy Living Legend Award, the Library of Congress Gershwin Prize, and a NARAS Lifetime Achievement Award. He’s earned an honorary doctorate at Howard University, Kennedy Center Honors, a BET Lifetime Achievement Award, and the National Medal of Arts Award from the President of the United States. In addition, Robinson has been inducted into the Rock And Roll Hall of Fame — once as a solo artist, and again as a member of The Miracles — and he’s also been inducted to the Songwriter’s Hall of Fame. Robinson has a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.”
