Bobby Robinson RIP

Sad to hear the news that Bobby Robinson has died, aged 93. Bobby was a New York legend, running his Happy House record shop in Harlem for over 60 years until he was forced to close in 2008 (see the Vinyl Word, July 30, 2007). And as a record producer and record label owner Bobby was second to none in the doowop and R and B field. Among his labels were Red Robin, Whirlin' Disc, Fury, Everlast, Fire and Enjoy. Artists who he recorded included Wilbert Harrison, Lee Dorsey, The Shirelles, Gladys Knight and the Pips, Arthur Crudup, Dave 'Baby' Cortez , Bobby Lewis, Elmore James and King Curtis. In the seventies he became an innovator of hip hop, recording Grandmaster Flash and the Furious Five's first record in 1979. A true great. Check out John Broven's 'Record Makers and Breaker' for a fascinating insight into his career.
Pictured is one of Bobby Robinson's classics. I have a copy for sale if anyone's interested.

Farewell also to Gerry Rafferty, who will forever be associated with Baker Street and Stuck In The Middle With You. And to Grady Chapman, original lead singer of The Robins, forerunners of The Coasters.