The beloved lead vocalist for the mighty R&B group the Spinners, Bobby Smith (née Robert Steel Smith), passed away from complications from the flu and pneumonia on Saturday, March 16, 2013 in Orlando, FL. This extraordinary singer, whose voice graced Spinners classics such as “That’s What Girls Are Made For,” “I’ll Be Around,” and “Could It Be I’m Falling In Love,” had been diagnosed with lung cancer in late 2012. In February, Smith and the Spinners were scheduled to perform on the Soul Train Cruise, and while Smith sat out most of the set he joined the rest of the group on stage for their hit “Then Came You,” as reported by fellow Spinner Jessie Peck.
Funeral services are scheduled for Monday, March 24 in Detroit, MI. Bobby Smith was 76 years old.
From the entire Soul Train family, we send our love and condolences to the family, friends, and loved ones whose lives Bobby Smith touched.
–Rhonda Nicole
