Bobby Rogers, a founding member of the Miracles and a Motown legend, has died at age 73 after a long illness.
Rogers was born in Detroit on the same date (February 19, 1940) as his future musical partner, Smokey Robinson, and the two became high school classmates at Detroit Northern High School. There they formed a singing group that eventually became the Miracles, bringing in friends Ronnie White and Pete Moore and Rogers’ cousin, Claudette Rogers (who later became Smokey’s wife).
The group went on to be signed by Berry Gordy, Jr’s fledgling Motown label and became the first Motown stars, scoring a #1 smash with “Shop Around.” This began a decade’s worth of hits such as “The Tears of a Clown,” “Ooh Baby Baby” and “Going to a Go-Go.” While Robinson was rightly credited as the group’s #1 songwriter, Moore also co-wrote hits for the Miracles and other Motown acts. He was also a wonderful dancer and choreographer.
Following Robinson’s departure for a solo career, the Miracles continued performing (with new lead singer Billy Griffin) and landed their biggest hit ever in 1975 with the dance smash “Love Machine.” They continued recording through the late 70s, but ultimately transitioned into an “oldies” act. The group continued to perform with new members alongside Rogers into the 21st century.
The Miracles received several honors, including a star in the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 2009 and induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2012.
Bobby Rogers was a tremendous performer and an important part of the rise of Motown in the 60s. He will be missed.
By Chris Rizik
[Many thanks to Ron Brewington of the Motown Alumni Association, for his updates on this]
Other Statements of condolences:
Claudette Robinson, spokesperson for the The Miracles, issued the following statement:
“My cousin, Robert “Bobby” Rogers, who was like a brother to me, lost his battle and succumbed. He has gone on to be with His Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. Bobby will be missed and mourned by many. Rest in peace, my brother of song.
Loveyou Cuz, Claudette”
Smokey Robinson has issued the following statement:
“Another soldier in my life has fallen. Bobby Rogers was my brother and a really good friend. He and I were born on the exact same day in the same hospital in Detroit. I am really going to miss him. I loved him very much.”
Smokey Robinson
Mickey Stevenson issued the following statement:
It is with a heavy heart that our condolences go out to the Rogers family and the Motown family for the loss of such a wonderful, caring brother. Bobby Rogers was and always will be one of God’s miracles.
William “Mickey” Stevenson
Funeral Information:
BOBBY ROGERS FUNERAL INFORMATION:
Tabernacle Missionary Baptist Church
2080 W Grand Blvd (Corner of W. Grand Blvd. & Grand River)