Smokey Robinson, If We Don’t Have Each Other | Track Review 🎵

Motown legend Smokey Robinson makes a strong return with “If We Don’t Have Each Other,” the promo single from his 2023 LP, Gasms.

It’s not often that musicians in their eighties release new albums.  🎙 Smokey Robinson is built different.  After an extended hiatus, the legendary, 83-year-old Motown musician is bringing the 💿 Gasms on his 2023 album.  Sure, the first –gasm that comes to mind is an orgasm,  but Robinson made it clear that a “‘gasm’ is any good feeling you might have”.  On his promo single, 🎵 “If We Don’t Have Each Other”, the wheel isn’t reinvented but it is clear that Robinson can still S-A-N-G.

Amazingly, Robinson’s smooth tenor remains potent.  Arguably it’s not quite as dynamic as it was in his heyday but still, the man sounds amazing.  The song itself is enjoyable – a respectable, adult contemporary R&B joint.  The production is modest and simple but sufficient by all means.  Thematically, matters of the heart always equates to a win, so the dedication of which Robinson sings about is highly successful. Without each other, they have nothing – PERIOD.   

Final Thoughts 💭 

🎵 “If We Don’t Have Each Other” is a solid comeback by Smokey Robinson.  It does not dare eclipse his timeless classics, but it does remind us how special he is as a singer, songwriter, and producer. This old-school styled contemporary R&B joint is refreshing.

🎙 Smokey Robinson • 💿 Gasms • 🏷 Smokey Robinson • 🗓 4.28.23

[📷: Brent Faulkner/The Musical Hype; Smokey Robinson; OpenClipart-Vectors, PIRO via Pixabay]