Smokey Robinson & The Miracles, The Tracks of My Tears

In the 193^rd edition of Throwback Vibez (2025), we recollect and reflect on “The Tracks of My Tears” by Smokey Robinson & The Miracles.

The vibes, the vibes, those Throwback Vibez! Throwback Vibez is a column that celebrates awesome songs from the past.  The records that grace this column are older, but that doesn’t necessarily mean they’re ancient – no fossils 🦴! All genres of music are welcome. In the 193^rd edition of Throwback Vibez (2025), we recollect and reflect on “The Tracks of My Tears” performed by Smokey Robinson & The Miracles.

“My smile is my makeup / I wear since my breakup with you.”

My, my, my! Smokey Robinson & The Miracles are one of Motown’s legendary groups.  The collective, led by Smokey Robinson (b. 1940), had plenty of hits, charting 46 songs on the pop charts! Among those 46 entries is “The Tracks of My Tears”, which peaked at number 16 on the Billboard Hot 100. Robinson, Warren “Pete” Moore, and Marv Tarplin wrote “The Tracks of My Tears.” Robinson produced it.

That signature Motown groove is potent early on “The Tracks of My Tears.” The Miracles deliver lovely background vocals during the intro.  Smokey Robinson sounds fantastic on lead during the verses. His warm, distinct instrument brings the memorable lyrics and tuneful melodies to life. “Although I might be laughing loud and hearty / Deep inside I’m blue,” he sings, sincerely in the first verse.  In the second, he adds, “…If you see me with another girl / Seeming like I’m having fun /… she’s just a substitute.” Something special about this song is its innocence, something that much of modern music lacks.  The unforgettable chorus, also authentic, clean, and innocent, is the centerpiece:

“So, take a good look at my face

You’ll see my smile looks out of place

If you look closer, it’s easy to trace

The tracks of my tears.” 

The chorus welcomes in those bright, biting horns, as well as the fabulous background vocals by The Miracles. No extensive analysis is necessary regarding “The Tracks of My Tears”. This is one of the great Motown classics from the 1960s that is best experienced by listening. Yes, it’s unfortunate that Smokey is feeling down, but he and The Miracles put their foot into this one.