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Smokey Robinson

The legendary singer-songwriter and producer is happy to entertain HIMSELF on the golf course these days.

By Eli MillerPublished: June, 2008

In 1969, Smokey Robinson played his first round at Palmer Park Golf Course in Detroit. He had long resisted the urge, thinking “it was boring.” But when Motown Records regulars like Mickey Stevenson, Robert Gordy and Marvin Gaye took up the game, it was only a matter of time before Robinson became hooked on what he calls “the heroin of sports.”

How often do you play?
As often as I can. I’m fanatical about it. The last four years I’ve had to cut my golf way down because I’ve been so busy. I practice whenever I can, because I love to go to the range and hit balls and work on stuff.

What are your favorite courses in Southern California?
I play basically wherever they have holes and flags. Montebello Country Club is one of my favorite courses because it’s very challenging, and [PGA head pro] Eddie Fiero is my [good friend]. I was one of the first 12 members at Mountain-Gate, which is now one of the premier country clubs in the Los Angeles area.

What’s your handicap?
When I’m playing on a regular basis and practicing, it’s a 10 or so.

Most enjoyable moment in golf?
I used to get really, really frustrated with golf, but about 10 years ago I stopped letting it frustrate me like that. I’ve had two holes-in-one, and those were fantastic moments. I love being out there with my buddies playing — and we don’t give any putts.

Bob Dylan once called you “America’s greatest living poet.” Who is America’s greatest living golfer?
Tiger Woods is the best who has ever done it. Jack Nicklaus didn’t have nearly the short game that Tiger has.

If you had to pick one of your songs to sum up your golf game, what would it be?
It would probably be “You Really Got a Hold on Me.” Because, I don’t like you, but I love you/Seems like I’m always thinking of you/Though you treat me badly, I love you madly/You really got a hold on me!  SG

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