In Memory

Bob Devlin
One-Man Band
1946 -- 1994

Bob Devlin was the original One-Man Band of Washington, D.C. An institution in the area for over 20 years, he often entertained busy lunchtime crowds on the streets of D.C. with his happy tunes. Later he played for many prominent Washingtonians at such noted places as the National Theatre, Wolf Trap, the Kennedy Center and the White House.

But it was his love of children that first inspired me.

The first time I saw Bob perform was in 1993. He had become a regular at Santa's Village, an annual Christmas arts and craft show in my home town. My wife dragged me along to the event, and while she shopped, I found Bob entertaining children in a corner of the large room. Kids were gathered around singing with him, and his joyful spirit immediately hooked me. I sat with the kids and listened for a long time, amazed at his ability to play so many different instruments together. But even more I was touched by his gentle, loving soul. I came back the next year and watched him again, and when Santa's Village came around in 1995, I couldn't wait to go. But when I got there, Bob was missing. It was then that I learned he had passed away.

Bob had inspired me to begin experimenting with my own one-man band set-up, and I began sharing music with children in my area. I discovered the same joy I saw in him -- the happy faces of children, their love and appreciation. So I asked the Santa's Village directors if I could try filling Bob's shoes at the next craft show. I knew I couldn't compare, but I felt that someone should continue where Bob left off. So in 1996 I sat where Bob had sat, a crowd of kids around, and I felt his spirit there.

Bob Devlin so greatly inspired me and taught me where to find pure joy, that I perform in his honor wherever I go. I never knew him well, but he touched my life deeply in the brief time our lives intersected. I know that now he sings in the Heavenly choir, for the Savior he loved. And down here, I try to keep a little of his memory alive.

I will always be grateful for this dear man who loved people, and shared it in his songs. He will live forever in my heart, and in the hearts of all who ever experienced his gentle soul.

Thank you Bob.

Looking For More Info About Bob and His Music?
P.S. I get asked from time to time if I know where people can get copy's of Bob's recordings. I am happy to report that Jessie Devlin, Bob's wife, will have some of them available again soon! If you are interested in the music of Bob Devlin, please contact Jessie Linda Devlin at bobdevlinmusic@yahoo.com