Although his impact is generally forgotten today, he played a major role in promoting country music in its early years through numerous recordings and radio appearances.

[2] Through this relationship, Robison had success, mainly as a songwriter but also as a musician, accompanying Dalhart on guitar, harmonica, whistling, and harmony vocals.

[2] In one of their first collaborations, Robison accompanied Dalhart on the landmark recording of "Wreck of the Old '97" b/w "The Prisoner's Song" (1924),[2] widely regarded as country music's first million-seller.

From 1928 to 1931 he teamed with Frank Luther,[2] recording songs for various labels and appearing on WOR radio in New York City.

[2] According to Billboard, his 1942 reworking of the standard "Turkey in the Straw", with new lyrics relating to World War II, was that year's most popular song.

During this time, Robison caught the eye of a young secretary working at the record label he was under contract to, Catherine "Catty".