Bobbie Smith, American singer (d. 2013)

Robert Steel Smith (April 10, 1936 – March 16, 2013), universally celebrated as Bobby Smith, was an iconic American R&B singer whose distinctive voice became synonymous with the legendary group, The Spinners. Often recognized as the Detroit Spinners or the Motown Spinners, this ensemble forged a path through both the Motown and Philadelphia music scenes, with Smith consistently serving as their principal lead vocalist throughout their storied history. His enduring presence was a cornerstone of their sound from their very beginnings.

The journey of The Spinners began humbly around 1954, within the halls of Ferndale High School in Ferndale, Michigan, a vibrant suburb just north of the bustling Detroit border. This early formation set the stage for a career that would span decades and produce an impressive catalog of timeless hits. Their first significant break arrived in early 1961 when the group secured a record deal with Tri-Phi Records, a label founded by the influential Harvey Fuqua.

The Unmistakable Voice of a Hitmaker

Bobby Smith was more than just a member; he was the group's foundational lead singer from its inception, a testament to his consistent vocal prowess. His voice graced The Spinners' very first hit record in 1961, "That's What Girls Are Made For." Interestingly, this early success was often inaccurately attributed to their mentor and former Moonglows lead singer, the late Harvey Fuqua, highlighting how easily credit can be misplaced in music history. As The Spinners transitioned through their productive Motown years in the 1960s, Smith remained the primary vocal force, leading on many charting singles, including beloved tracks like "I'll Always Love You" (1965) and "Truly Yours" (1966). His soulful delivery was also central to nearly all of the group's pre-Motown material released on Fuqua's Tri-Phi Records label.

However, it was during their phenomenal tenure with Atlantic Records that Bobby Smith's voice became globally recognized, leading some of their biggest and most enduring hits. These include the instantly recognizable "I'll Be Around," the romantically charged "Could It Be I'm Falling in Love," and the reflective "They Just Can't Stop It (The Games People Play)." A pinnacle of their Atlantic era came in 1974 with "Then Came You," a memorable collaboration featuring superstar Dionne Warwick, which became The Spinners' sole #1 Pop hit. Remarkably, all four of these iconic Bobby Smith-led songs achieved Gold certification from the Recording Industry Association of America (R.I.A.A.), signifying sales of over 500,000 units each and cementing their place in music history.

Setting the Record Straight: Bobby Smith's Undeniable Legacy

Despite his critical role in leading so many of The Spinners' most successful recordings, a common misconception has often seen much of the group's success erroneously credited to another beloved voice, the late Philippé Wynne. It's crucial to note that Wynne did not join The Spinners until well over a decade after their formation, making Smith's foundational contribution undeniable. While Henry Fambrough also lent his voice as a lead singer on several Spinners' songs, the persistent confusion between Smith and Wynne likely stemmed from the striking similarities in their vocal styles and the fact that they frequently shared lead duties on various hits, creating a rich, layered sound. This led to instances where Wynne was incorrectly credited for songs actually led by Smith, even on official releases like Atlantic Records' "Anthology" double album collection – an error that was thankfully rectified in the group's later, more comprehensive triple CD set, "The Chrome Collection." Throughout a succession of lead vocalists, including G. C. Cameron, Wynne, and later John Edwards, Bobby Smith's consistent and powerful lead voice remained the steadfast mainstay of The Spinners' signature sound, a constant anchor through evolving lineups.

A Fond Farewell and Enduring Harmony

Bobby Smith's remarkable life concluded on March 16, 2013, at the age of 76. He had bravely battled lung cancer and ultimately succumbed to complications from pneumonia and influenza. His passing marked a significant loss for the music world and for The Spinners' family. With the earlier deaths of fellow original Spinners members C. P. Spencer in 2004, Billy Henderson in 2007, and Pervis Jackson in 2008, a poignant legacy continues. Today, Henry Fambrough stands as the sole surviving original member of the iconic group, proudly continuing to perform with a current-day line-up of The Spinners, ensuring their timeless music lives on for new generations.

Frequently Asked Questions About Bobby Smith and The Spinners

Who was Bobby Smith and what was his role in The Spinners?

Bobby Smith was the principal lead singer of the legendary American R&B group, The Spinners, from their formation in the mid-1950s until his passing in 2013. His distinctive voice was featured on most of their major hits.

When did The Spinners officially form?

The group began around 1954 at Ferndale High School in Ferndale, Michigan, and secured their first record deal with Tri-Phi Records in early 1961.

Which iconic songs did Bobby Smith sing lead on for The Spinners?

Bobby Smith's lead vocals are featured on many of The Spinners' biggest hits, including "That's What Girls Are Made For," "I'll Be Around," "Could It Be I'm Falling in Love," "They Just Can't Stop It (The Games People Play)," and their only #1 Pop hit, "Then Came You" (with Dionne Warwick).

Wasn't Philippé Wynne the main lead singer for The Spinners' biggest hits?

While Philippé Wynne was a highly popular and talented lead singer who contributed significantly to The Spinners' success, he joined the group over a decade after its formation. Bobby Smith was the consistent lead vocalist from the very beginning and sang lead on the vast majority of their early hits and many of their biggest Atlantic Records successes. Confusion often arose due to shared lead vocals and similar vocal qualities.

What was The Spinners' "Motown/Philly" sound?

The Spinners were unique in successfully transitioning from a career with Motown Records in the 1960s to a hugely successful period with Atlantic Records, where they refined a distinctive "Philly Soul" sound. This blend allowed them to incorporate the sophisticated arrangements and lush instrumentation characteristic of Philadelphia International Records while retaining their Motown roots of catchy melodies and smooth harmonies.

When did Bobby Smith pass away?

Bobby Smith passed away on March 16, 2013, at the age of 76, after battling lung cancer and succumbing to pneumonia and influenza.

Are any original members of The Spinners still performing today?

Yes, Henry Fambrough is the sole surviving original member of The Spinners and continues to perform with the current lineup of the group, keeping their legacy alive.