Smokey Robinson has something to say. As a living legend in the music industry, Smoky has always been proud of his extensive contributions to the music world.
And now, the iconic singer-songwriter is taking a bold stand in favor of artists sampling his work. In a recent interview on the R&B Money podcast, Robinson expressed that he not only welcomes artists sampling his music but wants them to do so, seeing it as a high form of flattery.
Get this: when host Tank asked about the first time he heard D’Angelo’s soulful cover of “Cruisin’,” Robinson responded with a heartfelt tribute: “D’Angelo’s my little brother. I love him. What did I think when I heard it? I thought, ‘Yippee, ooh great.’ That’s the same thing I think of when I hear anybody doing any of my songs. As a songwriter, I hope that happens all the time.”
Moreover, the Motown legend’s admiration for musical creativity is evident, as he explained, “I know when the kids started to sample music, people would come to me, ‘Hey man, they sampled your music.’ No, sample all of mine. Sample every song I every wrote in my life. When you sample it, that says to me, that out of all the billion songs that are on earth… you chose one of mine to incorporate into your music? Thank you.”
Robinson revealed that he was “flabbergasted” by D’Angelo’s version of “Cruisin’,” proving his deep appreciation for artists who pay homage to his music. But Robinson didn’t hold back when the conversation shifted to artists who were hesitant about sampling their work.
“There’s a line in the sand,” co-host J. Valentine pointed out, as he acknowledged that some artists are protective of their music and may not want it touched. Robinson’s response was direct and uncompromising: “First of all, it’s flattery. And you’re also going to earn some money, so why would you protest that?” He went on to call those who oppose sampling “fools” and “stupid.”
Regarding the 85-year-old musical icon’s candid remarks, he quickly resonated with fans, many of whom expressed their admiration for his generous perspective. One fan on X (formerly Twitter) wrote, “The fact Smokey Robinson said sample everything he ever made makes me even more of a bigger fan!!” Another user echoed, “No greed, mans is rich in influence.”
Robinson’s endorsement is now a green light for established and emerging artists to sample his work, knowing they have the full support of the man behind the timeless hits. Robinson, whose career began in the ’50s with The Miracles, has since become one of the most influential figures in music. He was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1987 and awarded the 2016 Library of Congress Gershwin Prize for his lifetime contributions to music.
With Robinson’s blessing, artists can incorporate his iconic songs into their creations—an offer from a legend that many will no doubt be eager to accept.