When the Black Crowes either broke up or went on indefinite hiatus (depends on who you ask and sometimes when you ask), guitarist Rich Robinson spent a few months with his family at home, figuring out what to do next. There were some deaths in his extended family that just added to how strange it was adjusting to life without the Crowes, and how strange it was to be working on projects without his brother, vocalist Chris Robinson. He ended up building a studio in his Connecticut home and worked on his production chops. New avenues were opening, too, with Robinson composing the soundtrack for the 2001 film Highway while seriously working on his painting for the first time since the Crowes had formed.

In 2003, he formed the four-piece band Hookah Brown, which toured a bit before Robinson realized he couldn't stand band politics any longer. Going it alone meant singing lessons, since the guitarist had never handled lead vocals. It took one lesson for Robinson to realize his technique was all wrong. It built up his confidence and renewed his interest in releasing an album. Playing everything but the drums himself, Robinson soon had enough for an album. Joe Magistro took care of the drum parts, then guest appearances from ex-Crowes keyboardist Eddie Hawrsch and BR5-49's Donnie Herron were added, and the album was done. Robinson released the result, Paper, in August of 2004 on his own Keyhole label. ~ David Jeffries, All Music Guide