Episode #4 featuring Robin Lukas "Phantom of the Opera"

Robin's tales include a strange story of a very private party, a tragic casino gig and cruise ship life.

More about Robin....

Transplanted to rural WI, I commute and perform in my native Chicago(when there's not a pandemic raging...).

A working musician since 1987. Pianist and vocalist, solo or with ensemble.

Up until his untimely death in 2004, legendary Chicago Jazz bassist, Thomas Kini and I collaborated, performing together.

Employed as a Cruise-ship pianist for 15+years compelled me to learn even more about Jazz history through performing Musical Tribute Sets honoring: The Gershwin's; Cole Porter; Elton John; Burt Bacharach; Frank Sinatra; The Carpenters and Nat King Cole.

As a youth, I studied Classical Piano at American Conservatory of Music and Jazz as an adult with, Chicago based Skip Green.

Stylistically I look to George Gershwin's rules of composition as a guide: “melodic, nothing neutral, utter simplicity and directness.” A favorite quote from Nadia Boulanger is: “ Your music can never be more or less than you are as a human being.”Herbie Hancock: “ If you have the strength to keep trusting yourself, you'll be OK.”

Influences: Manfredo Fest, Stevie Wonder, George Duke, Carmen McRae..

Earning a living playing “customer service” music at local Chicago venues ( Drake, Pump Room, 95th Signature Room) I've “kept my creative toe in the water” composing originals.

My fifth release, Good New Days (2020) Danceable poetic Jazzy Sophisti-pop originals..... Music that lives near my heart.

All songs on Good New Days I composed to encourage myself...... Good new day means: “today is tomorrow's good old day so it's a good new day.... reminding me to appreciate the moment.”