Charlie Robison, the celebrated country singer-songwriter hailing from Texas, passed away on September 10, 2023, at the age of 59. His death occurred at a San Antonio hospital, where he had been admitted due to cardiac arrest and related complications, as confirmed by a family spokesperson.
Robison was renowned for his authentic, rootsy melodies that graced the country music charts during the late 1990s and early 2000s. Notably, his 2001 album “Step Right Up” featured his sole Top 40 country hit, “I Want You Bad.” In addition to his solo career, he collaborated with his brother Bruce Robison and Jack Ingram on the album “Unleashed Live” in 2000.
In 2018, Robison retired from the music industry after a surgical procedure on his throat left him unable to sing. He conveyed his retirement through a heartfelt message on Facebook, stating, “Therefore, with a very heavy heart I am officially retiring from the stage and studio.”
The late singer-songwriter had two marriages and a total of four children and stepchildren. His first wife was Emily Strayer, a founding member of the prominent country band The Chicks. Following their nine-year marriage, they divorced in 2008. Robison’s second wife, Kristen Robison, whom he married in 2013, survives him.
Charlie Robison’s roots traced back to Houston, but he grew up in Bandera, a charming town nestled in the Texas Hill Country, where his family had owned a ranch for generations.
His musical journey began in the late 1980s, initially playing with local Austin bands before forming his own group, the Millionaire Playboys. His signing with Sony’s Lucky Dog label in 1998 granted him the creative freedom to record his original compositions.
Robison’s music was heavily influenced by legendary artists like Willie Nelson, Waylon Jennings, Bob Dylan, and The Rolling Stones. His distinctive blend of country, rock, folk, and blues attracted a broad fan base, bridging both mainstream and alternative country enthusiasts. His songwriting prowess was marked by witty and candid lyrics that reflected his personal experiences.
The passing of Charlie Robison deeply saddened his legions of fans and fellow musicians, who took to social media to express their condolences. His brother Bruce Robison shared his grief on Twitter, saying, “My big brother Charlie left us yesterday.
He was my hero and my best friend. I love you Charlie.” Singer-songwriter Pat Green tweeted, “Charlie Robison was one of the greatest songwriters ever to come out of Texas. He will be missed by all who loved him and his music.”
Details about memorial services for Charlie Robison were pending as of the time of writing. He is survived by his wife Kristen Robison, his children Gus, Julianna, and Levi Robison, and his stepdaughter Chloe Halbert.