Rich Robinson grew up outside of Atlanta, Georgia, and was heavily influenced by British Invasion bands like the Rolling Stones as well as American roots music. He was a founding member of The Black Crows in the 80s and after the band went on hiatus in 2001 formed another band, Hookah Brown. After they disbanded in 2003 he began a solo career and has since formed another band, Circle Sound. He has released two solo studio albums, most recently Through a Crooked Sun in 2011.