Bobby Smith (rhythm and blues singer)

Bobby Smith
Smith in 1977
Background information
Birth nameRobert Steel Smith
Also known asBobbie Smith
Born(1936-04-10)April 10, 1936
Detroit, Michigan, U.S.
DiedMarch 16, 2013(2013-03-16) (aged 76)
Orlando, Florida, U.S.
GenresPop, R&B, soul
OccupationSinger
Years active1954–2013

Robert Steel Smith (April 10, 1936 March 16, 2013), professionally known as Bobby Smith, also spelled Bobbie, was an American R&B singer notable as the principal lead singer of the classic Motown/Philly group, The Spinners (also known as the Detroit Spinners or the Motown Spinners), throughout its history. He was the principal lead singer from its formation in 1954 when he was eighteen, until his death in 2013.