Porter Robinson

Porter Robinson whose real name is Porter Weston Robinson was born on July 15, 1992, in Atlanta, Georgia, and raised in Chapel Hill, North Carolina. He is a renowned American DJ, record producer, and singer-songwriter. Robinson’s musical journey began in his adolescence, fueled by a passion for video game music, particularly from Dance Dance Revolution. This early fascination with electronic music led him to start producing at the young age of 12. By 18, he had signed with Skrillex’s record label OWSLA and released the acclaimed EP Spitfire in 2011, which marked his entry into the mainstream music scene.

Robinson’s debut full-length studio album, Worlds, released in 2014, was a critical and commercial success. It peaked at number one on Billboard’s Top Dance/Electronic Albums and is credited with influencing the broader sound of EDM. The album, known for its theme of escapism, featured tracks that each created their own unique world, resonating deeply with listeners. Robinson’s desire for his audience to derive their own meanings from the songs underscored his innovative approach to music production.

In 2017, Robinson collaborated with his best friend Madeon on the single “Shelter,” which not only became a hit but also led to the Shelter Live Tour. This period also saw Robinson exploring new musical avenues under the alias Virtual Self, through which he released a self-titled EP. The single “Ghost Voices” from this project earned him a Grammy nomination for Best Dance Recording, reflecting his versatility and creativity in the electronic music landscape.

Robinson’s second studio album, Nurture, released in 2021, marked a significant departure from the escapist themes of Worlds. Instead, it focused on finding joy in the mundane aspects of life, influenced by Robinson’s personal struggles with depression and his journey towards self-acceptance. The album debuted at number one on Billboard’s Top Dance/Electronic Albums and received widespread acclaim. It was highlighted as the best album of 2021 by The Fader. The album’s introspective lyrics and Robinson’s own vocals on the tracks provided a heartfelt and authentic listening experience.

In addition to his albums, Robinson has made substantial contributions to the music community through his live performances and festivals. He launched the Second Sky Festival in 2019, initially named Multiverse, which featured artists he admired and supported charitable causes. When the COVID-19 pandemic struck, he adapted by creating Secret Sky, an online festival that maintained the spirit of Second Sky through livestreams and a digital auditorium.

Robinson’s personal life has also been marked by significant milestones. He announced his engagement to Rika Mikuriya in January 2022, and the couple married on May 7, 2023. Robinson’s close friendships with fellow artists like Madeon and Dillon Francis have further enriched his journey in the music industry.

In 2024, Robinson released his third studio album Smile! 😀, continuing his tradition of pushing musical boundaries and connecting with his audience on a profound level. His discography, which includes Worlds, Nurture, and Smile! 😀, along with his innovative live performances and festivals, cements Porter Robinson’s legacy as a transformative figure in electronic music.