I have spent 55 years as an entertainer: Rock musician/singer, TV host, author, columnist, actor, producer, emcee and radio broadcaster. The 16th U.S. president, Abraham Lincoln, is my cousin. Favorite actors/actresses include: Clint Eastwood, Dustin Hoffman, Johnny Depp, Susan Sarandon and Richard Dreyfuss. As for favorite television shows, nowadays everything on TV stinks (unless it's a historic documentary). Favorite music of all-time includes surf, psychedelia, garage bands, Motown and just plain ol’ good time Rock & Roll. I have seven books out: "Johnny's Jukebox Word Search: The 60s", “Johnny’s Vintage Rock 'n' Roll Q&A", "Johnny's Jukebox Trivia”, two "Paranormal Michigan", "Steve The Cat" and "Monster Memes #1". Make sure you check out my "Haunted Michigan" page, too!
John Robinson
The Michigan Town Named After a Rhode Island Rebellion
An 1841 rebellion in Rhode Island was the basis for this Michigan town's name. Click in for details and photos...
Dr. Kevorkian’s First “Customer” – June 4, 1990
This episode comes from one of Michigan history's dark corners...
This Michigan Village Was Called a “Hotbed of Abolitionism”
In 1847, the Kentucky Slave Raid made its way into this little Michigan town. Holy cow...check this one out by clicking the picture!
This is the Sixth Oldest Village in Michigan
This 1833 town survived 'ghost town' status is is doing very well to this day. CLICK IN for photos and location!
A Michigan Man Supervised the Lincoln Conspirator Hangings, 1865
…..and he's buried in Mid-Michigan...CLICK IN for details and gravesite...
Here’s Why Michigan Drug Stores Had Soda Fountains
100 years ago, almost every Michigan drug store had a soda fountain. Ever wonder why? Click in and find out!
Three Little Jackson County Communities That No Longer Exist
Three little stations in Jackson County failed to grow like many of the others. CLICK IN for locations!
Lansing’s Reform School For Boys: 1856-1973
After 117 years, it closed down, shipped the boys elsewhere, and demolished all buildings except one. CLICK IN for a brief bio...
The Tragedy That Killed North Star
In Gratiot County, tragedy struck on June 25, 1890, which seemingly put an end to North Star's business growth. CLICK IN for the location and story!
Michigan Drug Stores, 1890s-1950s: Pharmaceutical, but Fun!
Drug stores used to be places where you could just hang out and have fun.....kids AND adults! CLICK IN for a gallery of 100 photos that go back as far as the 1890s!