Smokey Robinson: The Library of Congress Gershwin Prize for Popular Song

Smokey Robinson: The Library of Congress Gershwin Prize for Popular Song is a monumental PBS special that was aired in 2017, honoring the unmistakable influence and legacy of iconic American singer, songwriter, and record producer Smokey Robinson. As the coveted winner of the Gershwin Prize for Popular Song bestowed by the Library of Congress, Smokey Robinson's illustrious music career, spanning over six decades, is colorfully and respectfully highlighted in this special presentation.

The program celebrates Robinson's extraordinary achievements in the realm of popular music, underscoring his undeniable contributions and lasting impact on American music culture. It doesn't merely serve as a tribute, but it underscores how the celebrated artist’s creative prowess helped redefine the landscape of American music, and resonated far beyond the bounds of his primary genre, Motown soul.

The Gershwin Prize is one of the highest honors within the realm of American music, celebrating the creative powerhouses that enrich the nation's musical culture in unique and profound ways. As its name suggests, the award draws inspiration from the influential songwriting team of George and Ira Gershwin, whose vast body of work has become an integral part of the American musical fabric. As this medal is presented to Smokey Robinson by the Library of Congress, the program provides a wonderful punctuation in the musician's longstanding career.

This star-studded PBS special is rich with performances from a variety of notable artists, all paying tribute to Robinson's influence in their own unique ways. The multitude and breadth of performers show the wide-ranging reach of Robinson's influence, a testament to his impact across varying genres and generations. From contemporary favorites to the legendary game-changers, all pay their homage to the Motown icon.

In addition to the musical performances, the special sheds light on Smokey Robinson's story. It beautifully weaves in commentary and recounts of Robinson's ascent and his pivotal role in shaping popular music. Audiences get a privileged glimpse into his early days in Detroit, his remarkable journey with Motown Records, and how his multifaceted talent as a singer, songwriter, and producer helped in shaping the Motown sound that proved instrumental in breaking racial barriers and introducing a new sound that transcended the color line.

Within the program, there are personal testimonials from present-day musicians who have been directly or indirectly influenced by Robinson's work. These heartfelt reflections highlight Robinson's significant impact on the music industry, showcasing his transformative capacity and how his melodies and lyrics have touched people's hearts and souls.

Often described as America's 'greatest living poet' by fellow songwriter Bob Dylan, Smokey Robinson's transcendent lyrical craft is illuminated in this homage. The program beautifully captures Robinson's gift for capturing the human experience and expressing it through his soul-stirring lyrics. His knack for marrying poignant messages with catchy, universally appealing melodies is explored, establishing him not only as a hit-maker, but also as a storyteller who could capture universal, deeply felt human emotions.

The production of the program is tempered, elegant, and simple, allowing the music and the man to take center stage. Its no-frills style results in an intimate atmosphere, where the viewer feels less like an audience member in an arena, and more like a guest at a personal gathering, being part of a warmth-filled celebration of Smokey Robinson's stellar career.

This program offers an emotional and cognisant experience for viewers who are fans of Smokey Robinson, fans of popular music, or those simply interested in the history of American music and its most influential figures. It is a sincere and uplifting tribute that encapsulates the essence of the legacy of the man dubbed by Berry Gordy as the 'soul of the Motown sound'.

Whether you are a music historian, a fan of Motown, or a viewer interested in the broader canvas of American culture, Smokey Robinson: The Library of Congress Gershwin Prize for Popular Song is the kind of television event that leaves a deep and resonant impression long after the final notes are played. It reaffirms Robinson's place in the pantheon of all-time greats and forever immortalizes his remarkable contribution to the vibrant and diverse tapestry of American music.