Rob Wainwright

Robbie was not only my good friend for 26 years but also my ex-husband. Most people thought it was crazy that we remained so close for all these years even after we divorced but we were both so happy that we were able to maintain a special bond and that we both had significant others who were supportive of that bond. I remember when my husband, Brad, invited Robbie to a surprise birthday party for me 10 years ago, all the other guests were rather stunned that, not only would Brad invite...

Robbie was my favorite drummer and
after working with him off and on for 27 years I felt a strong connection with him. As a young vocalist just breaking into the business in 1978, Rob looked after me like a big brother. He made several tapes of the best Jazz vocalists so that I could learn great tunes and be inspired to challenge myself, musically. We
worked together at the Biltmore Hotel from 1978-1984 with a 13-piece orchestra which included eight strolling violinists. We all...

Rob was an exceptional expressive drummer, and a mainstay in the movement to keep jazz alive and well in the Valley. While I didn't know him well, as a drummer colleague he will be greatly missed
in the jazz community which he graced for so many years.

I didn't know Robby well, but his warm smile and sense of humor always said that didn't matter. And oh, how he could play the drums! Rest in peace.

I was saddened to hear about the all too early death of Robbie Wainwright. I haven't lived in Phoenix in over 15 years, but I have fond memories of playing some gigs with Robbie in the 80's. Robbie was always very much a classy gentleman, a straight ahead guy, and a friend to all. And Robbie was of course a very tasty and accomplished drummer. It was a lot of fun to play with him.

My favorite memory involving Robbie occurred in the mid-80's, when we both were playing a couple...

Robbie was unique in all facets of his personality and jazz drumming talent. Always stylish, always knowledgeable.