20

FRIDAY

Bob Dylan once called Smokey Robinson “America’s greatest living poet.” However, as brilliant as Smokey and his fellow Motown compatriots such as Marvin Gaye were, they didn’t succeed without some assistance. At “The Motown Sound: A Symposium,” a film from the Detroit-based Motown Museum, naturally titled The Motown Sound, and a panel discussion will help make clear who were the talents behind the spotlights. A&R man and “Dancing in the Streets” songwriter William “Mickey” Stevenson, legendary dance instructor Cholly Atkins, and former vice president (and sister of label founder Berry Gordy) Esther Gordy Edwards will provide insight concerning their roles in establishing the innovative genius of the black-owned and run company that came to be known as Hitsville U.S.A. Surviving members of Smokey’s group, the Miracles, including his ex, Claudette Robinson, and Robert Rogers, will join them and close the evening with a brief set. At 8 p.m. at the Library of Congress in the Jefferson Building’s Coolidge Auditorium, 101 1st St. SE. Free, but tickets are required. (202) 707-5502. (Steve Kiviat)