He began his career in the 1950s as a performer on the country music television show, "Town Hall Party." Later, his career took him to Nashville where he worked in recording studios as a sideman. In 1973, he recorded his first solo album, The Legend of Sir Robert Charles Griggs. The album, while not a big seller and now out of print, has achieved an underground cult status. Produced by Gary Paxton, it is an innovative showcase of experimental alt-country music, with all songs written by Griggs himself. Moog synthesizers and sound effects on some tracks set this album apart from the rest, as being ahead of its time.
