By Luke Voogt
Docklands’ Scot Robin says Buddy Holly is in his “DNA”.
Robin first played the rock and roll legend in the Australian version of a play out of London’s West End in 1991.
“I’ve been doing theatre since I was a kid,” the 47-year-old told the Indy on Monday. “Buddy was my first role in a major production.”
Robin travelled Australia with the play for two years.
But after a call from a producer, he started performing solo as Holly, which he has done ever since.
“I had no idea it would last this long,” he said. “I’ve been everywhere man!
“It’s been non-stop for 26 years, and I’m not slowing down. If anything, it’s getting busier, it’s been insane.”
His love of the iconic rocker started well before the West End production.
“My father was a huge Buddy fan, and I grew up with his music as far as I can remember,” he said.
“My favourite song is That’ll Be The Day – every person knows it and just waits for it.”
In September 2004 Scot performed in Holly’s home town of Lubbock, Texas, where he met with Buddy’s family and widow Maria Elena Holly.
About a year ago, he joined the Robertson Brothers’ tribute act to the Everly Brothers. He said he and the brothers had become instant mates.
“It’s like we’re having a big boy’s weekend every weekend. They’re brilliant – they really love what they do and it shows in their performing.”
The Robertson brothers are perhaps best known for their version of the Home and Away theme, which played before the show from 2000 to 2006.
“It’s the first time I teamed up with another tribute show,” he said.
“Adding the Everly Brothers has just been the perfect match. If you like the Everly Brothers you’ll like Buddy Holly – everybody loves it.”
“The harmonies can only be sung one way and the Robertson brothers have nailed them.”
Robin has played in Geelong five times, but next Saturday’s performance at Geelong Performing Arts Centre will be his first with the brothers.
“It’s a great theatre. I’m up first, I set ’em up and the Robertsons knock ’em over.”
Robin said playing in a tribute was all about respecting the original fans.
“It was their music and they know every note. We’ve put a lot of attention to detail into the show because you have to get it right.
“That’s the thing with legends, tribute shows offer fans that wonderful thing where they can live a special time in their lives. I want to see them in the theatre for a great night of rock and roll.”
After playing Holly for so long, Robin reckoned he struggled to impersonate anyone else.
“If I sing any other song, it’s just like Buddy singing another song.”
