Date of Birth: May 29, 1935
Zodiac Sign: Gemini
Date of Death: September 29, 2011
Biography
Sylvia Robinson, born Sylvia Vanderpool on May 29, 1935, was an American singer, songwriter, music producer, and record label executive. She was a pioneer in the music industry, often referred to as “The Mother of Hip-Hop” for her role in bringing hip-hop music to mainstream audiences. Sylvia began her music career in the 1950s as part of the duo “Mickey & Sylvia,” with their hit song “Love is Strange” reaching number 11 on the Billboard chart in 1957. In the 1970s, Sylvia co-founded Sugar Hill Records with her husband, Joe Robinson. The label became a cornerstone of the early hip-hop scene, producing groundbreaking records like “Rapper’s Delight” by The Sugarhill Gang, which is often credited as the first commercial rap single. Sylvia’s keen ear for talent and innovative production techniques helped shape the sound of early hip-hop. Beyond her contributions to hip-hop, Sylvia also enjoyed a successful solo career. Her 1973 single “Pillow Talk” was a major hit, reaching number three on the Billboard Hot 100. She continued to influence the music industry through her work at Sugar Hill Records until the label faced financial difficulties in the mid-1980s. Sylvia Robinson passed away on September 29, 2011, leaving behind a legacy as a trailblazer in the music industry and a key figure in the rise of hip-hop music.
5 Interesting Facts about Sylvia Robinson
1. Sylvia Robinson is often called “The Mother of Hip-Hop” for her pivotal role in the genre’s early commercial success.
2. Her 1973 hit single “Pillow Talk” was initially offered to Al Green, who turned it down.
3. She co-founded Sugar Hill Records, which was instrumental in popularizing hip-hop music.
4. “Rapper’s Delight,” produced by Sylvia, was the first rap single to become a Top 40 hit on the Billboard Hot 100.
5. Sylvia Robinson was a successful songwriter and producer, contributing to numerous hits across different genres.
5 Most Interesting Quotes from Sylvia Robinson
1. “We were just trying to make great music, and it turned into something bigger than we ever imagined.”
2. “Hip-hop is the voice of a generation, and I’m proud to have been a part of its birth.”
3. “I always believed that music could bring people together and change the world.”
4. “Producing ‘Rapper’s Delight’ was like opening a door to a whole new world of possibilities.”
5. “Music has always been my passion, and I’m grateful for the impact it has had on my life and the lives of others.”
Highest Net Worth Achieved
At her peak, Sylvia Robinson’s net worth was estimated to be around $15 million.
Children
Sylvia Robinson had three children: sons Joey Robinson Jr. and Leland Robinson, and daughter Rhondo Robinson.
Relevant Links
2. [Sugar Hill Records History](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sugar_Hill_Records
