Smokey Robinson & The Miracles: A Bittersweet Serenade with “What’s So Good About Goodbye”
In the tapestry of American soul music, few voices resonate with the depth and tenderness of Smokey Robinson. As lead singer and songwriter for the legendary group The Miracles, Robinson crafted a sound that captured the complexities of love, loss, and everything in between. One of their most enduring gems is the 1961 single, “What’s So Good About Goodbye”, a song that explores the bittersweet nuances of a relationship on the brink of collapse.
Background
Released during a period of immense creative growth for The Miracles, “What’s So Good About Goodbye” marked a shift towards a more sophisticated sound. Gone were the doo-wop influences of their earlier works, replaced by a smoother, more soulful approach. This evolution was largely driven by Robinson’s songwriting, which began to delve deeper into the emotional complexities of love.
The song’s narrative unfolds from the perspective of a man grappling with the impending end of a relationship. The lyrics, penned by Robinson himself, paint a vivid picture of heartache and confusion. He questions his lover’s motives, pleading with them to explain the reasoning behind the goodbye:
“What’s so good about goodbye, baby? Don’t you know we can work it out?”
Robinson’s signature soaring vocals heighten the emotional intensity of the song. He seamlessly blends vulnerability and frustration, capturing the pain of a love teetering on the edge. The backing vocals by The Miracles, particularly those of Pete Moore and Bobby Rogers, add layers of harmony and depth, creating a sense of shared pain and understanding.
Musically, “What’s So Good About Goodbye” is a masterclass in subtlety. The song features a driving yet understated rhythm section, a simple yet effective chord progression, and a memorable horn arrangement that punctuates the emotional weight of the lyrics. This minimalism allows Robinson’s voice to take center stage, conveying the raw emotions of the narrative.
Beyond its immediate impact, “What’s So Good About Goodbye” holds historical significance. The song’s innovative guitar work, courtesy of Miracles guitarist Marv Tarplin, is said to have influenced The Beatles, particularly on their song “Ask Me Why.” Additionally, the song’s success solidified The Miracles’ place as one of Motown’s most prominent acts, paving the way for a string of future hits.
“What’s So Good About Goodbye” remains a timeless classic. Its relatable themes of love and loss continue to resonate with listeners across generations. The song is both a poignant reflection on the fragility of relationships and a testament to the enduring power of Smokey Robinson’s songwriting and The Miracles’ vocal prowess. It serves as a reminder that even in the face of heartbreak, there’s beauty to be found in the bittersweet honesty of human emotion.
Video
Here are some additional details about the song:
- Released in 1961 as a single and included on the 1962 album “I’ll Try Something New.”
- Peaked at number 35 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and number 16 on the Billboard R&B Singles chart.
- Written by Smokey Robinson.