Bobby Rogers, a founder member of Motown group The Miracles, has died aged 73.
Rogers died at his home in Southfield, Michigan on Sunday (March 3) morning after a lengthy illness, reported to be linked to complications from diabetes. Claudette Robinson, the singer’s first cousin, said that Detroit Free Press he “had a sparkling personality that was loved by everyone. People always commented on the tall one with the glasses”.
Rogers formed the group in 1956 with cousin Claudette Rogers, Pete Moore, Ronnie White and Robinson. Their hits included “Shop Around,” “You’ve Really Got a Hold on Me,” “The Tracks of My Tears,” “Going to a Go-Go,” “I Second That Emotion” and “The Tears of a Clown.”
Rogers voice can be heard on Marvin Gaye’s ‘What’s Going On,’ with Rogers saying, “It’s just a groovy party, man, I can dig it.” Speaking to the Detroit Free Press, Mary Wilson of the Supremes said the sentence summed up the man she knew. “If people want to remember him, they should put that record on and listen to Bobby. That’s who he was.”
Rogers is survived by his wife, Joan and children Bobbae Rogers, Gina Hughes, Kimberly Hughes and Robert Rogers III, plus a granddaughter. Funeral arrangements are expected to be announced shortly.
