Broken Record with Rick Rubin, Malcolm Gladwell, Bruce Headlam and Justin Richmond Rewind: Chris Robinson
Mar 17, 2026
Chris Robinson, lead singer of The Black Crowes and co-founder with his brother Rich, reflects on growing up in Atlanta and a family steeped in '50s rockabilly. He talks about the band’s new album Happiness Bastards, touring life these days, deep dives into West and North African music, and the songwriting chemistry with his brother.
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Civic Policy Fueled Atlanta's Music Scene
- Chris argues Atlanta's musical identity grew from civic decisions like Maynard Jackson's push for Black business inclusion at the airport.
- He links political leadership to cultural vibrancy and the city's appeal for musicians and athletes.
Parents Shaped Early Musical Life
- Chris Robinson's father had a 1950s top-40 rockabilly hit called Boom Dip Dip and performed in New York.
- That family music/theater background and a mother who was an Eastern Airlines flight attendant exposed Chris to travel and performance from childhood.
LA Public TV Expanded His Curiosity
- Chris recalls arriving in L.A. during the 'golden age of public television' and discovering outsider culture on late-night cable.
- Those early exposures expanded his taste for weird, outsider art and comedy, shaping his creative curiosity.