Robb is one of the coolest people I know. I met Robb through YPO (Young Presidents Organization) nearly six years ago. At that time I had Maxwell and Sade on repeat in my CD player, and while I still love their music, Robb has shown me the light and expanded my playlist to include a varied mix of artists I would have never been exposed to if it weren’t for him.
He is the founder and former CEO of INgrooves Music Group, the leading global music distribution and marketing company, and recently he founded Faction, a technology-enabled talent management company that provides a suite of resources and infrastructure to help the creative community manage their artist’s businesses.
Not only is he a highly successful entrepreneur, but he is a terrific father, and a loyal friend who is hilarious and always up for an adventure. I am honored to call him a dear friend! Enjoy my conversations with Robb.
What do you believe to be your greatest accomplishment?
I was going to ask whether you wanted to know my greatest personal or professional accomplishment, but quickly realized it all ties back to the same thing. Early in my adult life, I decided that my goal in life was to positively impact as many people as possible through my work and relationships. My greatest accomplishment is my ongoing pursuit of this goal, which won’t end until this life comes to a close!
What qualities do you think others love about you?
I would like to think that the people around me in life love that I am generally happy, generous, dependable and willing to be unconventional and follow my own path. But maybe they just love that I can laugh at myself and the many jokes they all make at my expense.
If you could do anything other than what you currently do, what would it be?
Have a large farm or country house with a dog rescue facility.
What do you like most about what you do for a living/career?
I am lucky enough to get to work in the music industry, so there are obvious perks of being able to see some of the most amazingly talented musicians up close and personal. But it’s equally enjoyable to work with others who are so passionate about supporting the arts and the creative community. It’s inspiring to me to see that passion at work every day.
What’s the first thing you do when you wake up?
Usually check my phone, although I am now trying to give myself a few moments to think about things I am grateful for and get myself in the right mindset for the day.
What’s your favorite thing to do on a Friday night?
Given that I am out so much during the week for my job, I usually like to crack open a bottle of wine and cook a nice meal with my fiancée and/or two boys before watching a movie.
What were you passionate about in your younger years growing up?
Sports, music and girls…and it took me a long time to grow up.
What are you passionate about now?
I am still growing up…but passionate just about one girl! I also love my two boys, Declan and Owen, and am amazed at how fast they are growing up (much faster than me).
What’s your favorite season and why?
That’s a tough choice between winter (for skiing) and summer (for long days). Skiing is my favorite activity to do in life; I live to ski. But summer is just such a fun time of year, with the boys out of school and more available to do things and the long summer days leaving more time for outdoor fun.
If you were a cocktail or a drink what would it be?
A shot of really good tequila.
What’s the #1 most played song on your iPod?
U2’s “A Beautiful Day”
If you could have lunch with anyone, living or dead, who would it be?
My family. It doesn’t happen enough. But I would ask them to invite Thomas Jefferson so I could ask him if it was OK for us to clarify the whole thing about the right to bare arms.
If your life was made into a movie, what would it be called?
The Rules Not Followed
Do you have any regrets?
I tend to correct or change anything I may have regretted in the past and therefore don’t dwell on it. This is all just a learning experience so onwards and upwards!
Define Freedom.
Freedom is being able to love without fear and live without persecution.
What are your personal core values?
I value personal integrity, honesty, respect for others and seeing the best in people around me.
What three things would you bring with you on a desert Island?
My family, my music and an endless supply of Plumpjack wine!