Bobby Rogers, the soul singer and song writer who co-founded The Miracles and was a part of the first million-selling group Smokey Robinson & The Miracles, has passed away at the age of 73 after a long illness and complications with diabetes. His impact in the 1960s and 1970s on Motown popularity was undeniable and tributes from his loving friends and family have been flooding in.  

Smokey Robinson left a message about his friend via his Facebook page. "Bobby Rogers was my brother and a really good friend. He and I were born on the exact same day in the same hospital in Detroit," he said. "I am really going to miss him. I loved him very much."

His cousin Claudette Robinson nee Rogers told the Detroit Free Press of her grief, saying "He had the sparkling personality that was loved by everyone. People always commented on the tall one with the glasses. He was personable, approachable and he loved talking to the women, loved talking to the guys, loved to dance, loved to sing, loved to perform. That was the joy of his life."

Rogers continued performing for as long as possible and The Supremes singer Mary Wilson recalls a show they performed together in Australia, saying "When he walked out on stage, he walked out with a zest, even though he had his walker... He walked out in time (to the music), and he was just great. He still loved what he did." 

Rogers is survived by his wife, four children and granddaughter, Brandi Williams from the R&B group Blaque.