Robbie Dupree began his music career by singing on the street corners of Brooklyn. His passion for music flourished in the rich, creative atmosphere of the late 1960s. Moving to New York City during these exciting days, Robbie dedicated himself to songwriting and the pursuit of a solo career. He studied the work of R&B legends like Marvin Gaye and Sam Cooke. Their powerful rhythms and sensual melodies became the foundation of Robbies emerging style. By 1970, he was performing on the club scene in Greenwich Village with band-mate , the legendary Nile Rodgers in a group called New World Rising.
In 1978, Robbie made the decision to pursue a solo career. He moved to Los Angeles and hooked up with old friends Rick Chudacoff and Peter Bunetta. Together, they produced his first solo recording. In 1980, Robbie signed a contract with Elektra Records. His debut self-titled album yielded two Top 10 singles, "Steal Away" and "Hot Rod Hearts," and earned him a Grammy® nomination for Best New Artist.