Alvin Robinson (musician) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Alvin Robinson
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Alvin "Shine" Robinson
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| Background information | |
| Also known as | Al Robinson "Shine" |
| Born | December 22, 1937 New Orleans, Louisiana, United States |
| Died | January 25, 1989 (aged 51) New Orleans |
| Genres | Rhythm and blues |
| Occupation(s) | Singer, guitarist, songwriter |
| Instruments | Vocals, guitar |
| Years active | c.1958 – c.1980 |
| Labels | Imperial, Tiger, Red Bird, Atco, A.F.O., Pulsar Records, Blue Cat (U.S.) Records, Charly Records, Joe Jones Records, Strike Records |
Alvin "Shine" Robinson (born December 22, 1937 – died January 25, 1989), also known as Al Robinson, was a talented American singer, guitarist, and songwriter. He was from New Orleans, a city famous for its music. In 1964, his song "Something You Got" became a hit. It even reached number 52 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart!
Contents
About Alvin Robinson
Early Life and Music Career
Alvin Robinson was born in New Orleans, Louisiana. By the late 1950s, he was already a skilled musician. He often played guitar for other artists in recording studios. This is called being a session musician.
In 1961, Alvin recorded some songs for Imperial Records. His music showed influences from famous singers like Ray Charles. Soon after, another singer named Joe Jones started managing Alvin's career. Joe helped Alvin get a new recording deal with Tiger Records. This record label was started by famous songwriters Jerry Leiber and Mike Stoller in New York City.
His Big Hits and Famous Songs
In 1964, Alvin Robinson recorded his own version of a song called "Something You Got." This song was originally by Chris Kenner. Alvin's version had a powerful, bluesy voice. It became a popular hit, reaching the Billboard pop chart.
Alvin then moved with Leiber and Stoller to their next record label, Red Bird Records. There, he recorded "Down Home Girl." This song was written by Leiber and Artie Butler. Even though many people thought it was a great song, it didn't become a big hit. However, a very famous band, The Rolling Stones, liked it. They recorded their own version of "Down Home Girl" on their 1965 album, The Rolling Stones No. 2.
Alvin continued to record songs for Red Bird and another label called Blue Cat. He even made a new version of the classic song "Let The Good Times Roll." But these songs didn't become big hits either.
Later Years and Collaborations
Alvin Robinson kept recording his own music and playing guitar for other artists. He moved to Los Angeles for a while. In 1967, he recorded "Let Me Down Easy" for Atco. This song was written by King Curtis.
Alvin also started playing with a well-known musician named Dr. John. He played guitar on several of Dr. John's albums, including Babylon and Dr. John's Gumbo. Alvin even helped Dr. John write some songs for these albums.
As a solo artist, Alvin recorded for labels like A.F.O. and Pulsar. One of his songs, "Sho' Bout To Drive Me Wild," featured many other talented musicians from New Orleans. He also played on albums for other famous artists, like Carly Simon's Playing Possum and Ringo Starr's Goodnight Vienna.
Alvin Robinson later returned to New Orleans. He passed away in 1989 when he was 51 years old. He left behind a legacy of great music and collaborations.
Images for kids
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Alvin "Shine" Robinson, a talented singer and guitarist.
