Smokey Robinson & The Miracles Light Up the Soul Scene with “I Second That Emotion,” “If You Can Want,” and “Going To A Go-Go”
Few voices in music are as instantly recognizable or emotionally rich as Smokey Robinson’s. Backed by The Miracles, his smooth falsetto and poetic songwriting helped define the Motown sound and shape the soundtracks of countless lives. Among the group’s dazzling discography, three classics stand out not just for their commercial success—but for the way they continue to resonate with generations of fans: “I Second That Emotion,” “If You Can Want,” and “Going To A Go-Go.”
The Motown Spark That Lit a Movement
Emerging in the early 1960s as one of Motown’s foundational acts, The Miracles were led by Robinson’s natural gift for melody and lyrical wit. “I Second That Emotion,” released in 1967, was inspired by an offhand remark during a shopping trip, turning a humorous phrase into a timeless hit. Meanwhile, “If You Can Want” arrived in 1968, showcasing Smokey’s mastery at expressing longing with a blend of grace and vulnerability. And of course, “Going To A Go-Go” (1965) wasn’t just a dance-floor anthem—it became a cultural call-to-action during an era of immense change, inviting everyone to join in the rhythm and unity of soul.
Why These Songs Still Shine
Each of these tracks blends elegant storytelling with infectious grooves. “I Second That Emotion” is a lyrical gem, using wordplay to explore love and hesitation with disarming charm. It climbed to No. 4 on the Billboard Hot 100 and became one of the group’s signature songs. “If You Can Want” offered a more understated, aching desire—reminding listeners of the quiet heartaches we often hide. It became another Top 20 success. And “Going To A Go-Go”? That’s pure, foot-stomping joy—its call to unity and celebration made it a Top 15 hit and a must-have for any soul playlist. Interestingly, the Rolling Stones were so taken with “Going To A Go-Go” that they covered it in the ’80s, bringing it to a whole new generation.
Smokey’s genius lies not only in the voice but in the feeling—a feeling that still connects with fans, whether they first heard these songs on a transistor radio or are discovering them today on streaming playlists. 💖🎧
Video
Lyrics
🎵 Let’s sing along with the lyrics! 🎤
[Verse 1]
Maybe you want to give me kisses sweet
But only for one night with no repeat
And maybe you’d go away and never call
And a taste of honey is worse than none at all[Pre-Chorus]
Oh, little girl, in that case I don’t want no part
I do believe that that would only break my heart, oh[Chorus]
But if you feel like loving me
If you got the notion
I second that emotion
Said, if you feel like giving me
A lifetime of devotion
I second that emotion, ah[Verse 2]
Maybe you think that love would tie you down
And you don’t have the time to hang around
Maybe you think that love was made for fools
And so it makes you wise to break the rules[Pre-Chorus]
Oh, little girl, in that case I don’t want no part
I do believe that that would only break my heart, oh