Smokey and Chance The Rapper Celebrate 50 Years Of Special Olympics

Special Olympics celebrated its 50th anniversary last week in Chicago with a series of events designed to highlight the concept of inclusion.

Rock and Roll Hall of Famer and Motown legend Smokey Robinson emerged for a brief but energetic set. Flanked by a six-piece band and three background vocalists, Robinson, 78, remains in fine voice. Running from side to side on stage, he opened his set with his 1981 hit “Being With You,” before revisiting the 1969 Miracles classic, “I Second That Emotion.”

“Ladies and gentlemen, you have been thoroughly entertained by the man with the golden voice, Smokey Robinson!” came the stage announcement as Robinson headed for the finish line with “Tracks of My Tears.”

“It’s an honor to be on this stage celebrating 50 years!” said Chance Saturday night. “I’m only 25,” he joked toward the end of the set before wrapping up a powerful weekend with his “Blessings” reprise.