The live experience
What reaches the room
Bob Roberts, often known as Ragtime Bob Roberts, was a pioneering performer in the early days of American vaudeville and novelty music. Born Robert S. Roberts in Cincinnati in 1871, he became a household name for his lively ragtime-infused act and memorable songs, most notably Ragtime Cowboy Joe, a hit single from 1912 that reportedly ranked among the year's best-selling records. Although he did not tour in the modern era and passed away in Cincinnati on January 21, 1930, his recordings helped shape the sound of early 20th-century American entertainment. On this page, you’ll find a concise biography, a look at key discography moments from major labels of the era, and historical performance highlights that reflect his impact on vaudeville and novelty music.