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Texas Singer-Songwriter Charlie Robison Passes Away at 59

Charlie Robison, the beloved Texas singer-songwriter known for his heartfelt anthems, has passed away at the age of 59 due to complications arising from a medical procedure. His death occurred on Sunday, and he died at a San Antonio hospital after experiencing cardiac arrest and other related issues, as confirmed by a family representative.
Robison’s musical journey began in the late 1980s when he played in various Austin-based bands, including Two Hoots and a Holler, before eventually forming his own band, the Millionaire Playboys. In 1996, he ventured into a solo career with the release of his debut album, “Bandera,” named after the Texas Hill Country town that held deep significance for his family across generations.
In 1998, Robison signed with Sony’s Lucky Dog imprint, which specialized in rawer country music. His 2001 album, “Step Right Up,” marked a significant milestone in his career, spawning his sole Top 40 country hit, “I Want You Bad.”
Tragically, in 2018, Charlie Robison shared the heartbreaking news that he had permanently lost the ability to sing following a surgical procedure on his throat. In a Facebook post, he announced his retirement from both the stage and the studio, expressing his deep sorrow.
Beyond his music, Robison served as a judge for one season on the USA Network’s reality TV show “Nashville Star,” where aspiring country artists competed for a recording contract while sharing a living space.
Charlie Robison leaves behind his wife, Kristen Robison, as well as four children and stepchildren. Three of his children were from his first marriage to Emily Strayer, a founding member of the acclaimed country band The Chicks. Robison’s divorce from Strayer served as the inspiration for songs on his 2009 album “Beautiful Day,” which he recorded in a San Antonio loft apartment filled with mismatched furniture and the remnants of beer bottles.
Reflecting on his music’s impact, Robison noted in a 2009 interview with The Associated Press that many listeners identified with his songs, feeling as though they were written specifically for them.
Charlie Robison’s final album, “High Life,” released in 2013, showcased a rock-infused sound and included a cover of Bob Dylan’s “When I Paint My Masterpiece.”
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Details regarding memorial services for Charlie Robison are forthcoming. His music and heartfelt lyrics will be remembered by fans and the country music community alike.