Eck Robertson was born on November 20, 1887 in Arkansas. He showed an interest in music at a young age and began playing the fiddle when he was just five years old. By the time he was a teenager, he was already showing incredible talent and passion for music.
At the age of sixteen, Robertson made a bold decision to leave home and join a medicine show traveling through Indian Territory. This experience not only exposed him to different musical styles and influences, but also allowed him to hone his craft as a musician. After his time with the medicine show, he began working as a piano tuner, a skill that would serve him well throughout his career.
Robertson's big break came in 1922 when he made his first recordings with fellow fiddler Henry Gilliland. This partnership would prove to be instrumental in launching Robertson's career as a country artist and fiddler. Together, they recorded several tracks that showcased their unique blend of musical talent.
Robertson's skill as a fiddler and his ability to captivate audiences with his energetic performances quickly set him apart from other musicians of his time. He became known for his virtuosic fiddle playing and his ability to tell stories through his music.
Throughout his career, Robertson gained a reputation as one of the finest fiddlers in American country music. He was a regular performer at the annual Old Confederate Soldiers' Reunions in the South, where he entertained audiences with his lively tunes and heartfelt performances.
Robertson's influence can still be felt in the world of country music today. Artists like Charlie Daniels have cited Robertson as a major inspiration, drawing from his innovative fiddle techniques and energetic stage presence.
In 1906, Robertson married his wife Nettie, with whom he had a daughter named Daphne and a son named Dueron. Despite the demands of his music career, Robertson always made time for his family and cherished the time spent with his loved ones.
Robertson's passion for music and his dedication to his craft made him a beloved figure in the world of country music. His legacy lives on through his timeless recordings and the impact he had on future generations of musicians.