Charlie Robison, a renowned Texas singer-songwriter known for his authentic country music, tragically passed away on Sunday. His musical journey, which reached the country charts, came to a halt due to complications arising from a medical procedure that left him unable to sing.
Robison breathed his last at a San Antonio hospital, where he had been battling cardiac arrest and other health complications, as confirmed by a family representative.
Robison embarked on his musical career in the late 1980s, initially performing with local Austin bands such as Two Hoots and a Holler before forming his own group, the Millionaire Playboys. In 1996, he unveiled his debut solo album, “Bandera,” named after the Texas Hill Country town that had been in his family for generations.
In 1998, Sony extended an offer to Robison, and he signed with their Lucky Dog imprint, which focused on raw and traditional country music. His 2001 album, “Step Right Up,” gave rise to his sole Top 40 country hit, “I Want You Bad.” However, in 2018, Robison disclosed the heart-wrenching news that he had permanently lost his ability to sing following a surgical procedure on his throat. In a heartfelt Facebook post, he announced his retirement from both live performances and studio recordings.
Robison also served as a judge for one season on the USA Network’s reality TV show “Nashville Star,” where contestants vied for a country music recording contract while residing together.
Survived by his wife, Kristen Robison, and four children and stepchildren, Charlie Robison leaves a musical legacy that includes his 2009 album “Beautiful Day,” inspired by his divorce from Emily Strayer, a founding member of the renowned country band The Chicks.
He recorded this album while dwelling in a San Antonio loft apartment near the Greyhound bus station, characterized by mismatched furniture and scattered beer bottles, an epitome of a bachelor pad. The album resonated deeply with listeners who felt a personal connection to its themes.
Reflecting on his music, Robison once said, “People come up to me and say they’re going through something right now, and it’s like this is completely written about them.” His songs inadvertently provided solace and understanding to many.
Charlie Robison’s final musical offering, the rock-infused “High Life” released in 2013, included a cover of Bob Dylan’s “When I Paint My Masterpiece.”
Details about memorial services are yet to be announced. The music world mourns the loss of a talented artist whose contributions to country music will be remembered for years to come.
