Biography
Isaac L. "Banjo Ikey" Robinson (July 28, 1904 – October 25, 1990) was a pioneering American banjoist and vocalist, born in Dublin, Virginia. He began his musical journey performing locally before relocating to Chicago in 1926, a move that placed him at the heart of the jazz and blues scene during its formative years. Robinson quickly established himself as a versatile musician, adept at both jazz and blues, and became known for his energetic playing and distinctive vocal style.
During the late 1920s and 1930s, Robinson recorded extensively and collaborated with some of the era's most influential musicians, including Jelly Roll Morton, Clarence Williams, and Jabbo Smith. He led several groups, most notably Ikey Robinson and his Band, and was a member of ensembles such as The Hokum Trio, The Pods of Pepper, Windy City Five, and Sloke & Ike. His 1929 recording "Rock Me Mama" is often cited as an early use of the term "rock," linking his work to the roots of rock and roll. Robinson's career spanned decades, and he continued performing and recording well into his later years, including a notable reunion tour with Jabbo Smith in the 1970s.
Robinson's legacy is marked by his contributions to the development of jazz and blues banjo, his innovative approach to rhythm and phrasing, and his influence on subsequent generations of musicians. He appeared in the 1985 documentary film "Louie Bluie," which helped introduce his work to new audiences and highlighted his enduring impact on American music.
Fun Facts
- Robinson's 1929 recording 'Rock Me Mama' is considered one of the earliest uses of the term 'rock' in music, predating the rock and roll era.
- He appeared in the 1985 documentary film 'Louie Bluie,' directed by Terry Zwigoff, despite not having known fellow musician Howard Armstrong before filming.
- Robinson was active in multiple influential jazz and blues groups, including The Hokum Trio and The Pods of Pepper.
- He continued performing and recording into his 80s, demonstrating remarkable longevity in his career.
Musical Connections
Mentors/Influences
- Jelly Roll Morton - Collaborated and recorded with Robinson in Chicago, providing exposure to advanced jazz techniques and composition. (Recordings in 1928-1929) [1928-1929]
Key Collaborators
- Jabbo Smith - Frequent collaborator and bandmate; co-led Ikey Robinson and his Band and reunited for a global tour in the 1970s. (Ikey Robinson and his Band recordings, 1970s reunion tour) [1928-1929, 1970s]
- Clarence Williams - Recorded together in various groups, including Clarence Williams' Jug Band. (Recordings with Clarence Williams' Jug Band) [Late 1920s-1930s]
- Howard Armstrong - Performed together in the 1985 documentary film 'Louie Bluie.' (Louie Bluie (film, 1985)) [1985]
- Ted Bogan - Performed together in the early 1980s, including live renditions of Robinson's signature songs. (Live performances, early 1980s) [1980s]
Artists Influenced
- Subsequent jazz and blues banjoists - Robinson's innovative jazz banjo style influenced many later musicians in the genre. (General influence on jazz and blues banjo playing) [1930s onward]
Connection Network
Discography
Top Tracks
- Jazz Battle (1929 - The Complete Set)
- Lina Blues (1929 - The Complete Set)
- Ready Hokum (1929 - The Complete Set)
- Michigander Blues (1929 - The Complete Set)
- Got Butter On It (1929 - The Complete Set)
- I Got The Stinger (1929 - The Complete Set)
- Ace Of Rhythms (1929 - The Complete Set)
- Decatur Street Tutti (1929 - The Complete Set)
- Till Times Get Better (1929 - The Complete Set)
- Little Willie Blues (1929 - The Complete Set)
External Links
References
Heard on WWOZ
Ikey Robinson and his Band has been played 3 times on WWOZ 90.7 FM, New Orleans' jazz and heritage station.
| Date | Time | Title | Show | Spotify |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nov 15, 2025 | 16:08 | make it fast, make it slowfrom make it fast, make it slow | World Journeyw/ Logan | |
| Oct 18, 2025 | 08:20 | Ready Hokumfrom The Encyclopedia Of Jazz. Classic Jazz. Volume 043 | Traditional Jazzw/ Big Pete | |
| Oct 18, 2025 | 08:17 | Got Butter On Itfrom The Encyclopedia Of Jazz. Classic Jazz. Volume 043 | Traditional Jazzw/ Big Pete |