Robin Black is a renowned English sound engineer and producer whose career has spanned decades, contributing to some of the most iconic albums in rock, folk, and pop music. Known for his innovative techniques and meticulous attention to detail, Robin has worked with a wide array of artists, leaving an indelible mark on the music industry.
Robin’s career began in the late 1960s, where he established himself as a freelance sound engineer at Morgan Studios in London. His expertise in sound engineering led him to collaborate with legendary bands and artists, including Jethro Tull, Supertramp, Donovan, and Matthews Southern Comfort. His work on Jethro Tull’s albums, such as Benefit and Songs from the Wood, showcased his ability to craft rich, textured soundscapes that complemented the band’s progressive rock style.
Robin’s connection to Dave Stewart emerged during his work with Longdancer, the folk-rock band co-founded by Stewart. Robin contributed his engineering expertise to their debut album, If It Was So Simple (1973), helping to shape the band’s harmonious blend of folk and pop melodies. This collaboration marked an early chapter in Stewart’s career, which would later evolve into global fame with Annie Lennox as part of Eurythmics.
Robin’s versatility as an engineer allowed him to work across genres, from folk and rock to experimental music. His collaborations with Ian Matthews and Matthews Southern Comfort further highlighted his skill in capturing the nuances of folk-rock. Robin’s ability to adapt to the unique needs of each artist made him a sought-after figure in the industry.
While Robin’s direct involvement with Eurythmics is not documented, his early work with Dave Stewart and Longdancer contributed to the foundation of Stewart’s musical journey. Stewart’s later success with Annie Lennox in Eurythmics, as well as their previous band The Tourists, reflects the evolution of talent and creativity that Robin helped nurture in its formative stages.
