Pop Quiz: Smokey Robinson

Pop Quiz: Smokey Robinson

Aidin Vaziri | Smokey Robinson, 66, makes his entry into the Great American Songbook craze on "Timeless Love," an album of standards that is the Motown superstar's first non-gospel or holiday album since 1999's saucy "Intimate." On the new disc, Robinson lends his distinctive voice to easy-listening greats such as "I've Got You Under My Skin," "Tea for Two," and "Moody's Mood for Love." Robinson, the former leader of the Miracles, has recorded an astounding 70 Top 40 hits in his 50 years in the music business. He marks the golden anniversary with another flurry of activity.

Smokey Robinson
Q: So, in the past few years you've made a standards album, a gospel album, a baby-making album and also started a supermarket line of microwave gumbo. Are you going through an identity crisis?
A: No, I'm not really trying to find myself. I know I'm going to be me for the rest of my life. Like I said, the songs on this particular CD are songs I've been singing all along. The food thing came up, and one of the main draw points for me to get involved is we're going to have seminars and forums and educational classes for young inner-city and minority kids.
Q: And for microwave gumbo, it's not that bad. Not that I've really had anything to compare it with.
A: Thank you.
Q: You also want to get into some acting?
A: That's still the case.
Q: Do you have anything coming up?
A: Not right now. I'm waiting for the proper one to come along. I don't expect to star in any movies or anything like that. I just want a good role I can sink my teeth into.
Q: What would be your ideal role?
A: I don't have anything in mind. Nothing. Whatever it is, as long as it's a good part that has some substance.
Q: Maybe like a kung fu detective?
A: All right. Pass that along to Hollywood.
Q: Do you think you could do Chef on "South Park"?
A: Not really. I think Isaac has got that covered.
Q: He quit.
A: Oh, no. I didn't hear that.
Q: Send your resume.