Charlie Robinson, also known as Big Saxy, is an award-winning saxophonist that plays at the Suite Bar and Grill in Columbus every Sunday and Thursday. As of 2016, Big Saxy has been on tour with the BB Kings All-Stars traveling on Cruise Ships around the world.

Robinson got his start when he was just 10 years old. Robinson says he was introduced to Jazz, Bebop, Salsa, and Bossa Nova by his first music teacher. It didn’t take Robinson long before he began making his way into Atlanta’s top musician’s circle.

“In my high school years, I spent his summers on Beale Street in Memphis, Tennessee, only allowed on the adult scene because  I had a sax case in my hand. I took full advantage of the opportunity to learn from so many great players that came from all walks of life,” said Robinson.

Those years helped Robinson define his sounds and develop his skills. Robinson began working at Salem Bible Church in Atlanta under pastor Jasper Williams. There he learned soul-inspired music and gained invaluable experience playing with artists such as Dottie Peoples, Jesse Jackson, and many other Atlanta natives.

“In 2004, I made his move to Columbus, Georgia to continue making his way as a professional saxophone player. I immersed himself in the Columbus music scene meeting and playing with the areas best musicians,” said Robinson.

Robinson received the chance to tour with R&B singer Calvin Richardson. While on the road he was presented an opportunity to play for the late Marvin Sease. Robinson spent the next year and a half on tour with Marvin continuing to learn and grow relationships. His talent so impressed Mr. Sease that he affectionately coined the nickname “Big Saxy”.

During this tour, Robinson had the honor of sharing the stage with the likes of Shirley Brown, Bobby Blue Bland, Cleotis Wright, Mel Waiters , Sir Charles Jones and many more. After Marvin’s passing Robinson turned his attention to his own music.

“My music is a culmination of all of his influences from people to places. My soon to be released album is titled “Be You” which represents my inch by inch movement in my musical career where I traveled farther than myself or anyone else ever thought I would go,” said Robinson. 

Here is a digital exclusive of Big Saxy playing “That’s What I Like” by Bruno Mars: 

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