Don't Mess With Bill

The Marvelettes consisted of Gladys Horton, Georgia Dobbins, Juanita Cowart, Georgeanna Tillman and Katherine Anderson - all from Inkster, Michigan. The group was originally known as the "Casinyets." Casinyet was a contraction for "Can't Sing Yet." Horton formed the group to enter a high-school talent competition.

This song was written by William "Smokey" Robinson, who achieved legendary status in the music business himself, first with the Miracles and then as a solo artist. Robinson's hits as an artist have included: "Shop Around," "You've Really Got a Hold on Me," "Mickey's Monkey," "Ooo Baby Baby," "The Tracks of My Tears," "Going to a Go-Go," "More Love," "I Second That Emotion," "Tears Of A Clown," "Being With You," "One Heartbeat," and "Just To See Her." Robinson played a pivotal role at the Motown record label, second only to the company's founder, Berry Gordy.

Despite assertions to the contrary, the "Bill" mentioned in "Don't Mess With Bill" is not William "Smokey" Robinson. Explained Robinson: "The reason I used that name is it sang well."