Robert Randolph, celebrated by Rolling Stone magazine as one of the 100 greatest guitarists of all time, is a virtuoso musician whose talent spans genres and captivates audiences worldwide. Raised in the rich tradition of sacred steel within the confines of a strict church upbringing, Randolph’s musical journey took an unexpected turn when he discovered secular music in his late teens. Drawn to legendary funk bands like Earth, Wind & Fire and Sly & The Family Stone, he delved into the diverse world of music, eventually forming The Family Band.
The group’s debut album followed successful performances in New York’s smokey bars, earning them a dedicated following among the jam-band crowd. Blending gospel and blues with improvisational prowess, The Family Band’s Got Soul debut on Sony Masterworks caught the attention of music icons such as Eric Clapton, Carlos Santana, and Derek Trucks. Clapton, impressed by Randolph’s smartly crafted tunes, invited the band to join him on tour and later collaborated on their third album, Colorblind.
Randolph’s distinctive fusion of sacred and secular influences permeates his music, showcased in six studio albums to date. While he relishes studio work, honing and reworking his compositions, Randolph truly thrives on stage. His concerts are energetic, inclusive affairs, marked by lively performances and an invitation for audience members to join him on stage. Whether dancing alongside his band or encouraging spontaneous collaboration, Robert Randolph’s infectious joy in live performances defines his status as a musical luminary.