Rich Robbins
Rich Robbins (he/him) is a Chicago-based rapper, poet, and multidisciplinary creative whose work lives at the intersection of hip-hop, spoken word, and soul. Born in Oak Park, IL and raised in Philadelphia, Robbins brings a reflective, emotionally grounded approach to his music—blending sharp lyricism with themes of identity, community, and mental health.
Beyond the stage, Robbins is a dedicated teaching artist and cultural organizer. He is the founder of Respect the Mic, a Chicago open mic series that has become a vital space for emerging voices and creative expression. His commitment to community and storytelling extends into workshops, residencies, and public programming designed to empower the next generation of artists.
Robbins’ artistry has earned him recognition as one of Chicago’s standout voices, including being named Best Individual Hip-Hop Artist by the Chicago Reader. His collaborative spirit has led him to work alongside artists such as Mick Jenkins and Saba, further cementing his place within the city’s vibrant creative landscape.
With projects like Soft & Tender and IN GOOD TASTE Rich Robbins continues to push the boundaries of hip-hop—offering music that is as introspective as it is impactful.
Profile image by: Mouna Tahar
Location: Studio Shapes; Event: The Artist Blueprint masterclass series; 2025; developed by Rich Robbins
Featured Artworks
Daily Viiision
Lincoln Hall. Sept 2025. IN GOOD TASTE album release show. Rich teaches the audience some crowd engagement
The Artist Blueprint with avery r young, Nick Makoha, and Eila Kitticamron
Thoughtpoet
Silent Disco at The Field Museum
Estevan Cruz
Location: Taft Museum of Art; 2025; North Kentucky School of Rock collaboration with Rich Robbins
True Chicago Conference. Columbia College. 2025.
Rich Headlining Metro for the Soft & Tender 1-year anniversary, 2024.
Backstage with Rich's band
YCA's Every Word Counts songwriting workshop, 2024
Respect the Mic, 2023.
Image by @jayypeg_
Rich with Peter Kahn, Hanif Abdurraqib, Tim Seibles and students from Ohio Public Schools in Columbus, Ohio, 2024
Cast of Soft & Tender Episode 4, 2024.
Wicker Park Fest 2024.
Image by @jayypeg_