It’s a good thing Rich Robinson has never let a little thing like fame get in the way of doing what he loves most: making music.
He achieved an intoxicating level of fame at the tender age of 21 when he formed the Black Crowes in 1984 with brother and snake-hipped, swaggering collaborator Chris Robinson.
In 1990, the band signed with Def Jam Records and released the hit “Shake Your Money Maker. ” A career hell-bent on classic, Southern/electric/blues/rock was born. Songs such as “Hard to Handle,” “Remedy” and “Sometimes Salvation” propelled the band into headliner status. After releasing the 2001 album Lions, the Black Crowes went on an indefinite hiatus.
After a brief respite from the spotlight, Robinson, playing every instrument except drums, released his first solo project, titled Paper, in 2004. The Crowes reformed for a short while, releasing several albums, but went back on to-be-determined status in 2009.
Now Robinson seems to have finally found his niche in the recently released solo album The Ceaseless Sight. He showcases the cumulative efforts that a life devoted to music can produce. He remains true to his Southern roots, while still extolling the sublime virtues of the humble electric guitar.
If you’re a Robinson fan, enter to win tickets to an exclusive meet-and-greet party hosted by the Bohemian. Visit the deals and giveaways page on www.bohemian.com for details.
Rich Robinson plays Saturday, July 19, at the Uptown Theatre, 1350 Third St., Napa. 8pm. Tickets, $20–$30. 707.259.0123.
