The Miracles – Make It Happen

Make It Happen by Smokey Robinson & the Miracles is a standout entry in the Motown catalog, reflecting the group’s artistic peak during the late 1960s. Featuring hits like “The Love I Saw in You Was Just a Mirage” and the chart-topping “The Tears of a Clown,” the album displays Smokey’s lyrical sophistication and the group’s tight harmonies across a rich, emotionally resonant set of tracks. The production, co-handled by Smokey himself, is polished and nuanced, showcasing the Miracles' evolution from doo-wop-inflected ballads to more intricate, pop-soul compositions.

Beyond its iconic singles, the album offers deep cuts that underline the group’s versatility—from lush romantic slow-burners to vibrant mid-tempo grooves. Make It Happen manages to balance mainstream appeal with lyrical depth, particularly on tracks like “You Must Be Love” and “The Soulful Shack,” which explore longing and affection with Smokey’s trademark poetic flair. The album has aged gracefully, often praised for its cohesion and emotional maturity, and is considered by many critics a hidden gem in the Motown legacy.

Reviews

"The album is a minor masterpiece of soul-pop craft" – AllMusic

"Robinson’s lyrics glide through themes of longing and romantic illusion with unmatched grace" – The Guardian

"Smokey Robinson could turn everyday heartbreak into poetry, and this album contains some of his most overlooked gems" – Rolling Stone

"One of the most emotionally consistent and musically rewarding Miracles records" – PopMatters

"This record shows how the Miracles were as vital to the Motown sound as any of their more widely celebrated peers" – NPR