Rocky Roberts

Rocky Roberts, originally named Charles Roberts Tanner, was born on August 23, 1940, in Alabama and became a notable rhythm and blues artist in Italy. After serving in the United States Navy, where he also distinguished himself as a champion boxer, Roberts discovered his passion for music. His vocal talent caught the attention of Doug Fowlkes, a country musician whose band performed aboard Roberts' ship, leading to Roberts joining them on stage.

In 1962, after retiring from the Navy, he won a singing competition while on shore leave in Juan-les-Pins, France, which prompted him to pursue a music career in Europe. He gained initial fame through appearances on the French television show "Les raisins verts," where songs like "T-Bird" and "Monkiss" showcased his unique style.

In 1965, his career took a pivotal turn when he was invited by Renzo Arbore and Gianni Boncompagni to Rome to record the theme for their radio program, "Bandiera Gialla." The song "T-Bird" topped the Italian charts, leading Roberts to settle in Italy. His 1967 hit "Stasera Mi Butto" sold an impressive 3.7 million copies, earning him the Festivalbar award and inspiring a film of the same name in which he starred.

Roberts is also recognized for singing the theme of the 1966 film "Django," which found renewed fame when Quentin Tarantino featured it in his 2012 film "Django Unchained." Known for his signature dark sunglasses, Roberts passed away from lung cancer in Rome on January 13, 2005, at the age of 64.