Robin S. — Faith, Resilience, Rhythm

Robin Jackson Maynard, known professionally as Robin S., gave us one of the most iconic House tracks of all time: “Show Me Love.” The song peaked at number five on the Billboard Hot 100 in 1993 and remains a staple on the dance floor to this day. Whether you’re dancing in the world’s hottest clubs or in the basement of a house party, Robin S. is likely the rhyme to your rhythm. 

Robin S. has toured the world, performed in Harlem’s legendary Apollo Theatre, and had her music sampled on Beyoncé’s album “Renaissance.” She continues to be the backbone of hit songs like “Shout It Loud” with DJ Escape, and recently signed with independent music label Humble Sound Records. A powerful voice both on and off the stage, Robin S. has been crucial in speaking out about artists’ rights while also addressing body image pressure in the music industry. 

As she continues to collaborate with other talented artists and create incredible dance music, Robin S. gave Funktasy some insight into her iconic career, the music industry, and what we can expect from her next.  

What is a daily routine like for Robin S.?

Robin S. does not exist when I’m not performing. I’m a wife and a mom of three fur babies. You get the picture. 

You started out your career performing in a band. What type of band was it, and how did that experience shape your musical direction and career path?

I auditioned for an R&B cover band at the age of 15. I was at a wedding and wanted to give my cousin a wedding gift,  so I asked the band if I could sing. That led to the audition. I’ve sung with several different bands during my band days. All of the above groomed me into becoming an ENTERTAINER AND NOT JUST A SINGER!

Many people call you the “Queen of 90s Dance Music.” How does it feel to carry that title and influence artists across generations?

“Queen of the 90’s,”  that’s very nice, but I don’t feel like that. I am just thankful to be living out my childhood dreams. 

You’re known for your powerhouse vocals. How did you develop such a strong and distinctive voice?

Everything I’ve started began church. I take NO credit for this. Years of singing gives your vocals strength, confidence in your abilities—that gives way to power. 

Outside of music, what inspires you creatively or grounds you personally?

MY LOVE FOR GOD! Humility will ALWAYS have its place in my life.

“Show Me Love” is now considered a timeless anthem. What do you think makes a song resonate across generations?

This question has its own answer. It simply applies to every generation! From the time you carry life inside until one has walked life’s road, LOVE IS REQUIRED. WHO IS LOVE, GOD IS LOVE. 

You’ve spoken about not receiving masters or publishing royalties for “Show Me Love.” How did that experience shape your perspective on the music industry?

Honestly, it hurt really bad to think that two individuals that I trusted with my life would choose greed over morals. But I prayed and cried and then realized that I GAVE BIRTH TO THAT SONG! I read the lyrics that were prewritten, but it was my emotions, feelings and gut that was infused in the melody. That’s something that NO ONE can take away. So, I dug my heels in the soil and kept pushing through the rubbish. It kind of keeps me hungry to prove to MYSELF that I belong. 

Do you feel the music industry has made progress in protecting artists’ rights, or do the same struggles still persist?

Because the wolves have and are being exposed in this industry, I believe it’s slowly getting better. I credit that to our youth in the industry. They are more innovative in technology, proving that they only really need the labels for distribution. We relied on the labels for just about everything, so they were able to have crazy control over our careers. 

You’ve been open about label pressures around body image. How do you see the conversation around women’s bodies in music evolving today?

Body shaming is NEVER cool to me. Big men can come out, and they are considered “teddy bears.” Full-sized women, no matter how well dressed,  are bodyshamed. 

Whether male or female, it’s not the shell that’s producing the sound, the melody, soul or emotions, it’s the inside! It’s personal; it should remain personal until the individual wants or needs to change it. 

Many artists today cite you as an influence. How does it feel to see your music inspire a new generation of performers? 

WOW, now I am surprised! I think just being yourself authentically is what you owe your audience. People can spot a fraud on stage. Can’t you? See, we as artists have to understand: if there aren’t ticket sales, there are no shows; if there aren’t record sales or streaming sales, there is no career. So we owe a sincere gratitude to our supporters. I leave EVERYTHING I HAVE ON THE STAGE EVERY TIME!

Are there any dream artists you’d love to collaborate with?

I am open to working with anyone who brings passion and honesty to their music. Of course, there are some artists I admire and would love to share a stage or studio with. Someone like Chris Brown, who is such a versatile performer, could bring incredible energy to a collaboration. On the pop and dance side, artists like Dua Lipa, Beyoncé, or Lady Gaga would be amazing because of their global reach and artistry. I would also love to connect with powerhouse vocalists from gospel and inspirational music, like Tamela Mann or Tasha Cobbs Leonard, because that kind of soul and spirit is very close to my heart. At the end of the day, as long as the music has a message and uplifts people, I am in!

Can you share any upcoming projects, collaborations, or future goals?

I just finished recording with Sainted from America’s Got Talent on a song written by myself and Paris Toon of Mothers Favorite Child. I should also have a new release with Carl Cox, entitled ‘Because of You,’ early next year, and I am very excited about a collaboration with Amaarae. My goal is to keep creating music that inspires, connects, and celebrates love across generations.