Bobby Rogers Dies, Motown Singer Was 73

Soul singer Robert “Bobby” Rogers has died. The singer was a founding member of The Miracles, the first group signed to Motown Records.

Reuters is reporting that Rogers had been sick for some time. He died at his home near Detroit on Sunday, March 3 at the age of 73.

The Miracles were formed in 1955 by Smokey Robinson. The group The group’s original lineup included Rogers, Robinson, Pete Moore, Ronnie White, and Rogers’ cousin, Claudette Rogers. Their stardom began with the hit “Shop Around,” and further hits such as “You’ve Really Got a Hold on Me” and “Mickey’s Monkey” cemented their place in music history.

Though Robinson was inducted alone into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1987, it took decades for other members of The Miracles to be inducted. Rogers and the rest of the group were finally inducted in 2012.

Rogers continued to sing with the Miracles, even after Robinson left the group. He currently holds the honor of having been a member of The Miracles for longer than any other singer.