Smokey Robinson Dishes on New Album ‘What The World Needs Now

The Album’s Heartbeat: Inspiration and Intent

In a world that often seems to prioritize negativity and conflict, Smokey Robinson’s new album, “What The World Needs Now,” is a refreshing respite from the chaos. The legendary musician’s latest release is a masterclass in positivity and upliftment, with a clear vision for inspiring change and action through the power of music.

According to Robinson, the album’s heartbeat is centered around gratitude, love, kindness, and community – themes that are woven throughout the album’s 11 tracks. From the opening notes of “Be Thankful For What You’ve Got” to the closing harmonies of “Be Kind To The Growing Mind” (feat. The Temptations), the album is a love letter to the human spirit and its capacity for good.

“It’s actually an inspirational album, and I hope it inspires people to do good things and to feel good and to do good to others,” Robinson said in a recent interview. “That’s what our purpose was for doing this album.” With “What The World Needs Now,” Robinson has created a sonic landscape that is both timeless and timely – an album that feels both nostalgic and forward-thinking at the same time.

The Power of Music to Inspire Change and Action

For Robinson, music has always been a powerful tool for inspiring change and action. From his early days as a young songwriter at Motown to his current status as a legendary musician and entrepreneur, Robinson has always believed in the transformative power of music to bring people together and inspire positive action.

“Music has the power to heal, to uplift, and to inspire,” Robinson said. “It has the power to bring people together and to create a sense of community and shared purpose. That’s what I’ve always tried to do with my music – to create a sense of connection and shared experience that transcends borders and boundaries.”

• Rod Stewart’s hit single “Make Love Last” (1977), which features a similar blend of classic soul and contemporary production
• Earth, Wind & Fire’s iconic album “That’s the Way of the World” (1975), which shares a similar message of hope and unity
• The rise of the “conscious rap” movement in the 1990s, which saw artists like 2Pac and The Notorious B.I.G. using their music to address social justice issues and inspire positive change

Track-by-Track: A Glimpse into Robinson’s Creative Process

So what inspired Robinson’s creative process for “What The World Needs Now”? According to the musician, the album was born out of a desire to create music that would inspire people to come together and do good in the world.

“I wanted to create an album that would inspire people to be kind, to be compassionate, and to be generous,” Robinson said. “I wanted to create music that would uplift and inspire people to be the best version of themselves.”

The album’s tracklist reflects this vision, with a mix of classic soul covers and original compositions that showcase Robinson’s signature sound and style. From the opening notes of “What A Wonderful World” to the closing harmonies of “You’ve Got A Friend,” the album is a masterclass in storytelling and songcraft.

Analyzing Key Tracks and Their Lyrical Messages

One of the standout tracks on the album is “Everything Is Beautiful,” which features a soaring vocal performance from Robinson and a lush orchestral arrangement that adds depth and texture to the song’s message of hope and resilience.

“This song is about finding beauty in the midst of chaos,” Robinson said. “It’s about recognizing that even in the toughest times, there is always something to be grateful for and something to be hopeful about.”

Another highlight of the album is “Lean On Me,” which features a heartfelt vocal performance from Robinson and a simple but effective piano arrangement that adds a sense of intimacy and vulnerability to the song’s message of support and solidarity.

“This song is about being there for others when they need us,” Robinson said. “It’s about recognizing that we are all in this together and that we can make a difference in each other’s lives.”

Live and Intimate: The SiriusXM Album Release Event

To celebrate the release of “What The World Needs Now,” Robinson hosted a special album release event on SiriusXM’s Smokey’s Soul Town channel. The event featured a live performance by Robinson, as well as a conversation with Stevie Van Zandt and a special appearance by The Temptations.

The event was a testament to the power of music to bring people together and create a sense of community and shared purpose. From the opening notes of the first song to the closing applause of the final performance, the event was a joyous celebration of music and its ability to inspire and uplift us.

“It was an incredible experience,” Robinson said. “To be able to share this music with my fans and to see the impact it had on them was truly humbling.”

The event also featured a special conversation between Robinson and Stevie Van Zandt, who discussed the making of the album and the inspiration behind its themes and messages.

“Smokey is a true legend and a master of his craft,” Van Zandt said. “He has a way of connecting with people through his music that is truly unique and special.”

Smokey’s Soul Town: A Continuous Celebration of Soul Music

As the legendary Smokey Robinson takes the reins as curator and host of Smokey’s Soul Town on SiriusXM, he brings with him a passion and expertise that resonates deeply with audiences. This dedicated channel is a loving tribute to Motown and beyond, showcasing a diverse range of classic soul, R&B, and Motown hits that have stood the test of time.

Through his role, Robinson shares stories from his illustrious career, interspersed with his personal favorites from Hitsville and beyond. The channel’s programming is a masterclass in preserving and celebrating musical history, transporting listeners back to an era of soulful melodies and heartfelt lyrics.

The Channel’s Identity: A Tribute to Motown and Beyond

The beauty of Smokey’s Soul Town lies in its ability to seamlessly weave together iconic tracks from the 1960s and 1970s, creating a sonic tapestry that is both nostalgic and timeless. From Stevie Wonder to Aretha Franklin, Otis Redding to Marvin Gaye, and Jackie Wilson to Chaka Khan, the channel’s playlist is a veritable who’s who of soul music legends.

Robinson’s personal touch is evident throughout the channel, with DJ shows originating from The Motown Museum in Detroit adding an extra layer of authenticity to the programming. It’s a testament to the enduring power of soul music, which continues to captivate audiences of all ages and backgrounds.

The Power of Radio: Connecting with Audiences Through Music

In an era dominated by digital music platforms, the relevance of radio might seem uncertain. However, SiriusXM’s unique platform, coupled with Robinson’s vision for Smokey’s Soul Town, serves as a powerful reminder of radio’s continued importance in connecting with audiences.

By providing a dedicated space for soul music, Smokey’s Soul Town fills a void in the musical landscape, offering listeners a chance to engage with a genre that has shaped the course of popular music. The channel’s impact extends beyond mere entertainment, serving as a catalyst for community building and shared cultural experiences.

Fan Engagement: The Audience’s Response to Smokey’s Message

The release of Robinson’s new album, “What The World Needs Now,” has sparked a renewed sense of excitement among fans, who have responded enthusiastically to the music and message. Through two exclusive specials on Smokey’s Soul Town, Robinson takes listeners on a journey through the album, sharing the stories and inspiration behind each song.

The track-by-track special and album release party, featuring a live audience and special guest Stevie Van Zandt, have given fans a unique opportunity to connect with Robinson and his music. The album’s themes of inspiration, kindness, and community have clearly resonated with listeners, who are embracing the message of hope and unity that Robinson embodies.