Introduction:
“Being With You” is a classic hit by the legendary American singer-songwriter Smokey Robinson, released in 1981. It is the title track of Robinson’s album Being With You, which became one of his most successful solo efforts after his departure from The Miracles. The song showcases Robinson’s signature blend of smooth soul and pop, demonstrating his mastery in creating timeless love ballads.
Being With You was released under the Motown Records label, a company with which Smokey Robinson had a long and successful career, both as a performer and songwriter. His role in shaping the sound of Motown cannot be understated, as he was also a key figure in producing hits for other artists on the label. In this song, Robinson touches on themes of love and emotional commitment, with lyrics expressing devotion despite the disapproval of outsiders. It’s a sentimental anthem about staying together against all odds, resonating with listeners for its heartfelt sincerity and smooth melodic delivery.
In terms of musical genre, “Being With You” falls primarily into the categories of soul and soft rock, blending Robinson’s soulful voice with pop-friendly instrumentation. The song’s production is characterized by lush arrangements and a catchy melody that made it appealing to a broad audience during the early 1980s, a period when pop-soul was thriving on the charts.
The song achieved significant commercial success, peaking at number 2 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and reaching number 1 on the UK Singles Chart, making it one of Robinson’s biggest international hits. Additionally, “Being With You” was a Top 10 hit on the R&B chart, further solidifying Smokey Robinson’s place as a leading figure in soul music. The track also earned widespread acclaim for its lyrical depth and Robinson’s distinctive vocal delivery. The success of “Being With You” helped to reinforce Robinson’s status as a solo artist, allowing him to shine beyond his previous work with The Miracles.