[Smokey Robinson is] possibly the most individualistic and recognizable R&B writer and performer in history. The songs this man has written are incredible…. (p. 69)

[He is] a rarity of the times, a popularly acclaimed and financially successful poet. (p. 70)

Smokey Robinson songs invariably bear his trademark, his unique ability for handling a simple melody, combined with his special gift for phrasing. His themes are never cryptic, his poetry is up front, his style unmistakable. (p. 72)

Bob Eisner, "Smokey Robinson: The Artist as Corporate Man," in Crawdaddy (copyright © 1973 by Crawdaddy Publishing Co., Inc.; all rights reserved; reprinted by permission), March, 1973, pp. 69-74.