Smokey Robinson jokes about taking fan backstage at first show since rape lawsuit
Smokey Robinson has performed his first show since he was faced with allegations of sexual harassment, assault and rape. The singer did not mention the lawsuit during his performance, but made curious remarks after welcoming a fan on stage.
Four former employees are suing Robinson for sexual assault, battery, and false imprisonment. The women filing anonymously as Jane Does seek minimum damages of $50million.
The Motown musician had responded via his lawyer to refute the claims, who called the accusations “vile” and indicated that they would seek a dismissal of the lawsuit against the singer. Attorney Christopher Frost said that as the case unfolds, evidence “will show that this is simply an ugly method of trying to extract money from an 85-year-old American icon.”
He performed his first show since word of the controversy at Beau Rivage Theatre on May 9th, smiling through a set in front of 1,600 people. This show was part of his tour celebrating the release of his new album, What the World Needs Now, as well as the 50th anniversary of his album A Quiet Storm
Near the end of the concert, the singer invited a fan on stage for his rendition of ‘Cruisin’. “Do you know what you volunteered for?” he asked her. Following her enthusiastic reply, he told the crowd, “We’ll be right back,” and pretended to accompany her backstage. After the joke had ended, he encouraged the audience to sing the lyrics to ‘Cruisin’ with him.
The crowd were along for the ride. The musician even received a rose from a spectator during his performance and took a selfie with another audience member. He received an extended ovation at the end of the performance. He interspersed the show with stories of his time in the Motown business.
His next performance is scheduled for May 31st at the Capitol Theatre in Port Chester, NY.
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