Robyn was born on 3rd March 1953 in London. At the age of 21 he was busking in Cambridge and in 1976 he formed several bands, The Worst Fears, The Beetles, Maureen and the Meatpackers and then Dennis and the Experts. The Experts eventually turned into The Soft Boys. After a fairly successful era, not quite making it to popstars, supporting The Damned and Elvis Costello, they split in 1981. Robyn then turned out some solo albums which included 'I Often Dream of Trains' which remains one of his finest momments. THe Soft Boys got together again but under the name Robyn Hitchcock and the Egyptians. 1985 saw their first album 'Fegmania' and saw them appear on the Tube performing the classic 'Man with the Lightbulb Head. Since then Robyn has turned out several albums with the Egyptians and solo but still to this day sounds as fresh as the day he recorded his first Soft Boys album. Robyn was highly influenced by Syd Barrett and also has tones of Cpt. Beefheart, Gong and Zappa in his music. It was in his search to find the home of Syd Barrett that he ended up busking in Cambridge. His greatest feat to date has got to be 'Jewels for Sohia' although the afore mentioned 'Fegmania', 'Black Snake, Diamond Role' and 'Moss Elixir' are all fantastic pieces of work.
Although Robyn brings a great enjoyment to music, especially with his lyrics, he seems to have passed by the British music public and enjoys more success stateside. Although a Soft Boys reunion is probably too much to ask for he still tours with ex-Soft Boys members. Listen to him if you get the chance, he will soothe you and rid you of all sense.
Bio written by: anon |
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