Robert Smith Biography Wiki: Life, Career, Achievements & Personal Details (2025)
Robert Smith is a renowned English musician, singer, songwriter, and record producer best known as the lead vocalist, guitarist, and primary songwriter of the iconic band The Cure. With a career spanning over four decades, Smith has left an indelible mark on alternative rock and post-punk music, earning critical acclaim for his distinctive voice, emotive lyrics, and unique visual style. He remains a celebrated figure in the global music scene, influencing generations of artists and fans alike.

Quick Facts
Full Name | Robert James Smith |
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Profession / Occupation | Musician, Singer, Songwriter, Record Producer |
Birth Date | April 21, 1959 |
Age | 66 (as of 2025) |
Birth Place | Blackpool, Lancashire, England |
Nationality | British |
Famous For | Lead vocalist and guitarist of The Cure |
Known For | Distinctive voice, songwriting, and goth-inspired appearance |
Ethnicity | White |
Zodiac Sign | Taurus |
Height & Weight | 5 ft 10 in (178 cm), approx. 165 lbs (75 kg) |
Hair Color | Black (dyed) |
Eye Color | Brown |
Education | St. Wilfrid’s Comprehensive School, Crawley |
Religion | Atheist |
Marital Status/Spouse | Married to Mary Poole |
Relationship | Married |
Children | None |
Relatives | Janet Smith (sister), Richard Smith (brother) |
Hobbies | Reading, painting, football, collecting records |
Employer/Organization | The Cure |
Years Active | 1976–present |
Net Worth (Estimated) | $25 million (2025) |
Early Life & Education
Robert James Smith was born on April 21, 1959, in Blackpool, Lancashire, England. He grew up in a musical family, moving to Crawley, West Sussex, at a young age. Smith attended St. Francis Primary School and later St. Wilfrid’s Comprehensive School, where his passion for music and literature flourished. Encouraged by his family, he began playing the piano at age six and picked up the guitar by age thirteen. Influenced by artists like David Bowie and Jimi Hendrix, Smith was drawn to creative expression from an early age, often participating in school bands and local music projects.
Career Journey
Robert Smith’s career is marked by innovation, longevity, and a profound impact on the alternative music landscape.
Early Career and The Cure’s Formation
Smith co-founded The Cure in 1976, initially under the name Easy Cure, alongside school friends. The band’s early sound was rooted in post-punk and new wave, with Smith taking on lead vocals and guitar duties. Their debut album, Three Imaginary Boys (1979), received critical attention for its raw energy and distinctive style.
Rise to International Fame
The Cure’s subsequent albums, including Seventeen Seconds (1980), Faith (1981), and Pornography (1982), cemented their reputation for moody, atmospheric music. Smith’s songwriting evolved, blending introspective lyrics with innovative soundscapes. The worldwide success of The Head on the Door (1985) and Kiss Me, Kiss Me, Kiss Me (1987) propelled the band into mainstream stardom.
Peak Success and Enduring Legacy
Disintegration (1989), widely considered The Cure’s masterpiece, showcased Smith’s emotional depth and musical versatility. The album produced hits like “Lovesong” and “Pictures of You.” Throughout the 1990s and 2000s, The Cure continued to release acclaimed albums and tour globally, maintaining a loyal fan base. Smith’s unique image—characterized by wild hair, smudged lipstick, and dark clothing—became synonymous with the goth subculture.
Recent Activity
In recent years, Smith has led The Cure through successful world tours, festival headlining slots, and new music projects. The band’s 2023–2024 tour was met with critical and commercial success, and Smith has hinted at new material in development. He remains active in the music industry, collaborating with other artists and advocating for mental health awareness.
Personal Life
Robert Smith married his childhood sweetheart, Mary Poole, in 1988. The couple has maintained a private and enduring relationship, choosing not to have children. Smith is known for his love of literature, painting, and football, often citing these interests as sources of inspiration. He is also an advocate for various charitable causes, particularly those related to mental health and animal welfare.
Awards & Achievements
- Inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame (2019) with The Cure
- Brit Award for Best British Group (1991)
- NME Award for Godlike Genius (2006)
- Multiple platinum and gold albums worldwide
- Q Icon Award (2002)
- MTV Video Music Award nominations
Physical Statistics
Height | 5 ft 10 in (178 cm) |
---|---|
Weight | Approx. 165 lbs (75 kg) |
Hair Color | Black (dyed) |
Eye Color | Brown |
Quotes
- “I never answer the question ‘What is goth?’ because if you have to ask, you’ll never know.”
- “The best music is essentially there to provide you something to face the world with.”
- “It’s not a matter of letting go—you would if you could. Instead of ‘let it go,’ we should probably say ‘let it be.'”
Controversies
Robert Smith has generally avoided major controversies, maintaining a reputation for professionalism and integrity. However, he has occasionally made headlines for his outspoken views on the music industry, including criticism of ticket pricing and streaming royalties. Smith’s candid interviews and refusal to conform to industry trends have sparked both admiration and debate among fans and critics.
Favorites
- Favorite Musician: David Bowie
- Favorite Book: “The Master and Margarita” by Mikhail Bulgakov
- Favorite Movie: “Blade Runner”
- Favorite Color: Black
- Favorite Food: Indian cuisine
- Favorite Sport: Football (Soccer)
Salary & Net Worth
As of 2025, Robert Smith’s estimated net worth is around $25 million. His earnings primarily come from album sales, world tours, merchandise, and royalties from The Cure’s extensive catalog. While exact salary figures are not publicly disclosed, industry benchmarks suggest that Smith’s annual income remains substantial due to ongoing touring and music licensing.
Interesting Facts
- Robert Smith has never used a mobile phone and prefers handwritten letters.
- He is ambidextrous, playing guitar left-handed despite being naturally right-handed.
- Smith wrote the hit song “Friday I’m in Love” in less than twenty minutes.
- He has collaborated with artists such as Siouxsie and the Banshees and Crystal Castles.
- Smith is a passionate supporter of animal rights organizations.
Social Media Links
- Facebook (The Cure Official)
- Twitter/X (@thecure)
- Instagram (@thecure)
- YouTube (The Cure Official)
- LinkedIn (The Cure)
Frequently Asked Questions
- Who is Robert Smith?
Robert Smith is a British musician, best known as the lead singer and guitarist of The Cure, influential in alternative and post-punk music. - How old is Robert Smith in 2025?
He is 66 years old, born on April 21, 1959. - Is Robert Smith married?
Yes, he has been married to Mary Poole since 1988. - What is Robert Smith famous for?
He is famous for his role as The Cure’s frontman, his unique style, and his contributions to alternative rock. - What is Robert Smith’s net worth?
His estimated net worth as of 2025 is around $25 million. - Does Robert Smith have children?
No, Robert Smith and his wife have chosen not to have children.
Conclusion
Robert Smith’s influence on music and culture is undeniable. From his early days in Crawley to global stardom with The Cure, his creativity, authenticity, and dedication have inspired millions. If you enjoyed learning about Robert Smith, please share this article with fellow fans and music lovers!
Sources: BBC, Rolling Stone, NME, The Guardian, Billboard, Rock and Roll Hall of Fame