Mike Robertson Oral History

Mike Robertson is a gifted saxophonist and venue owner whose contributions to Indiana’s music scene span multiple decades. Known for his rich tone and skill on the sax, Mike formed his own band, Smooth Country, that kept dance floors moving across the Midwest. In this oral history interview, he shares the story of his deep-rooted passion for music—from picking up the saxophone in high school to building Mike’s Music and Dance Barn. His dedication to live performance, music and community is evident throughout his journey.

Much of Mike’s story centers around his long-running venue, Mike’s Music and Dance Barn, located in Nashville, Indiana. The idea for the barn was Mike’s own—a dream he brought to life with the help of his family. Together, they prepared the site and built the venue by hand right on the family’s hay field just off State Road 46. Opened in the late 1990’s, the barn quickly became a regional hub for traditional country and swing music, hosting live bands, dances and line dance lessons. Mike discusses the inspiration behind the venue, the challenges of keeping it running, and the special role it plays in connecting people through music and dance.

This oral history interview with Mike Robertson was recorded as part of the Indiana Music History Project’s Amazing Indiana Music Stories series, with generous support from the Allen Whitehill Clowes Charitable Foundation. The project presents in-depth interviews with musicians, producers, and cultural figures who have shaped Indiana’s musical landscape. Mike shares personal stories, creative milestones, and cultural insights that offer a deeper understanding of Indiana’s vibrant music scenes—from small-town venues to regional stages. This page features the Complete Interview, a short highlight reel, and a selection of images that bring Mike’s story to life.

In this short highlight video, Mike Robertson tells the story of how Mike’s Music and Dance Barn came to be and what it took to build it himself. He reflects on his journey as both a saxophonist and venue owner, offering a glimpse into the dedication and community spirit that helped shape one of Brown County’s most beloved music venues.

In this full oral history, Mike Robertson shares his journey from picking up the saxophone in high school to becoming the founder of Mike’s Music and Dance Barn in Nashville, Indiana. He reflects on building the venue from the ground up, performing with bands like Smooth Country, and hosting countless musicians and community events that have made the Dance Barn a cornerstone of live music in Brown County. Mike also tells the story of discovering that Black Angus cows “moo” in a particular musical key—watch the complete interview to find out which one.