Primary Instrument: Piano
Born and raised on Chicago's south-side, Chris Rob was first introduced to music at age 4 by his mother, a renowned classical pianist. Today a respected singer, songwriter, producer and multi-instrumentalist, he's created an international following due to his musical genius, and captivating live performances.
In just a few years after relocating to New York, Chris Rob worked his way to musical director, keyboardist and back-up vocalist for the best in popular music. He recently served these roles for R & B vocalist John Legend on his Grammy-Award winning “Get Lifted Tour”, and can be seen highlighted throughout the “John Legend: Live at The House of Blues” DVD released last year. Chris Rob has also worked closely in the studio with hip-hop heavyweights Lauryn Hill and Kanye West, as well as producers Swiss Beatz, DJ Spinna, Devo Springsteen, Emile, and soul vocalist Leon Ware, the legendary co-writer for Marvin Gaye. His most recent efforts includes Legend's single 'Stereo' , The Polyrhythm Addict's 'Ugly World', and DJ Spinna's remix of the late James Brown's forthcoming release 'Gutbucket'.
His stage credits as a backing musician and opening act include: Stevie Wonder, Prince & the New Power Generation, Elton John, Snoop Dogg, John Mayer, Ashford & Simpson, Jill Scott, The Black Eyed Peas, Alicia Keys, Barry Manilow, Roberta Flack, Common, The Polyrhythm Addicts, and Michelle N'degeocello. He's also appeared on the 2006 Grammy Awards, Oprah, The Tonight Show with Jay Leno, Late Night with Conan O'Brien, and The Ellen Degeneres Show.
As a New York resident, Chris Rob has headlined at the city's hottest venues for established artists including: The Blue Note, Joe's Pub, The Cutting Room, and S.O.B's. His inspirations range from James Brown, Eric B. & Rakim, Nina Simone, The Police, Herbie Hancock, and Marvin Gaye to more current artists such as Prince, Nas, Jamaroqaui, D'Angelo, and Maroon Five. He describes his music as “a futuristic fusion of dance-floor funk, doo-wop soul and hip-hop, with a touch of true jazz.”
Armed with a degree in Music Business from Roosevelt University, his unique sound, passion and aptitude for music continue to reflect his experience and training. “I want to make the biggest impact possible,” says Chris Rob. “I want to bring back the feel good energy of old school R&B & Hip-Hop, and make music that brings people together.”
To check out Chris Rob's infectious, soulful vibe, pick-up his current CD project The Official Bootleg of Chris Rob, Vol. 1, available at www.chrisrobonline.com, I-Tunes, and CD Baby.com.
“His sound has the 'good' vibration. His music is a reflection of who he is a beautiful person.”
Leon Ware, legendary songwriter-recording artist
“A blossoming seed...well on the way to serving the world a rich gift”
John Legend, Grammy Award winning recording artist
“Chris Rob is a much better keyboardist than I am!”
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