Why don’t we crack open a Chris Robinson birthday six-pack to celebrate The Black Crowes lead singer’s special day?
The first thing I think of when Chris Robinson comes up is this story. It’s the early ’90s. The Black Crowes are riding high off the success of their 1990 breakthrough debut Shake Your Money Maker and the 1992 follow-up The Southern Harmony and Musical Companion. Chris Robinson, who is already a fellow with a slight build, has become downright emaciated.
Turns out instead of, you know, eating a meal or three a day, he’s been on a strict diet of drugs and alcohol. Nothing shocking or new in the world of rock music, right? But again, Chris Robinson: really thin dude. So thin that this became a health issue. As I remember, the story goes that the doctor told him to go home, go to bed for two weeks, and not get out of bed.
I searched online for a source on this story and couldn’t find one, so you’ll just have to rely on my fuzzy ’90s memory. It might be the first time in the history of rock that a rocker has been prescribed bed rest for a non-pregnancy-related health issue. I also think this all happened while Robinson was romantically involved with Kate Hudson. So at least he had company.
A Chris Robinson Birthday Six-Pack
I’m glad the Robinson brothers have buried the hatchet and started making music together again with The Black Crowes, even if it’s without drummer Steve Gorman. My Dad and I had the pleasure of seeing Chris and his brother Rich for their warm-up acoustic tour back in February 2020. It was the last live show we’d see for awhile.
Below you’ll find six of my very favorite Black Crowes tunes to honor Mr. Christopher Mark Robinson on his birthday. Cheers.
