Roosevelt “Mr. Music” Collins was born March 13, 1954 in Chattanooga, Tennessee to Mr. George A. and Annie M. Collins. His love for music began at the tender age of five and flourished after relocating to Omaha, Nebraska. As a young child he was naturally musically inclined. He became so proficient playing the keyboard and other instruments that he was dubbed a child prodigy that was marked for musical greatness. This was evidenced by his love and passion for music, as well as the music note that he bore on his neck, which was his birthmark.
Roosevelt shared his love and passion for music throughout his life. As a young boy he participated in many youth talent shows and programs at the Gene Eppley Boys Club were he received numerous awards. His talent as a gifted musician was recognized and honored in many municipal and community venues. Through relentless efforts, Roosevelt developed a musical style that was distinguishable by a voice and expression of its own. His soul-stirring style as a musical artist played a major role in the many successes of civic and cultural events such as the ‘The Stone-Soul Picnic; The Bryant Community Center Show Wagons; The Miss Black Tech Pageants; and the Musical Exposés of various area churches.
Roosevelt was a main vein of the music scene in Omaha for many years. As an artist he was highly respected. His music resonated at hot entertainment spots such as the Carter Lake Ballroom; Allen’s Showcase; The Green-Door, and numerous others. In 1992, the late Preston Love Sr., and many area musicians organized a post-humorous musical tribute to Roosevelt during Black History Month. The Omaha Star also published an article in honor of his musical contributions to the Greater Omaha Community.
Roosevelt also played keyboards for many local bands including the Soul Brothers, and Poverty Movement. He held a lifelong affinity towards the bond that he established with close friends an musicians, Singer/Songwriters, such as, Alonzo Franklin & Melvin McCullum; percussionist, Ricky Simmons; and musical artist, Hopie Bronson. He also expressed a deep regard for the inspiration that he received from musical artist, Charlie Wilson of the Gap Band, whose musical paths crossed while exploring the music scene in Tulsa Oklahoma.
In the latter years of his life, Roosevelt had become totally engulfed by his music. His insight on music was so keen that he often ascertained and shared information of revelatory value. He declared that music was more than just the “International Language of Love.” He declared that music was a life form with sensory perceptions. He recalled specific instances where in addition to hearing his music, he could also see and feel it. He said it gave him life, and had reviving qualities.
He became so insightful about the realm of music that he openly commented on the evolving style of music. He challenged that the emerging lyrical styles were void of life and positive energy. He further indicated that they were laced with negative subliminal messages that did not communicate love, peace or encouragement but, rather confusion and discouragement. It was his contention that this type of music did not “stir” the soul but in fact “stripped it.” In the wake of that revelation he cautioned music listeners to regard highly the type of lyrics that they listened to. He suggested listening to music with positive lyrics or without lyrics altogether.
Roosevelt remained faithful to his love and passion for music until his death. The essence of that passion continues to live in the hearts of his children and their children.
