Country music artist Charlie Robison passed away on Sunday at the age of 59. His death was confirmed by his representatives and occurred in a San Antonio hospital due to cardiac arrest and other complications. Robison, a native of Texas, began his music career in the 1980s and released his first solo album, “Bandera,” named after the Texas Hill Country town where his family owned a ranch for eight generations.
Robison’s sister, Robyn Ludwick, expressed her grief on social media, describing her heart as “broken in the deepest most irreparable way.” She encouraged fans to honor her brother’s memory by playing his music. Robison, who grew up playing music with his brother Bruce, released a total of nine albums throughout his career.
In 1995, Robison attempted to transition to a more mainstream sound but resisted being confined to a specific musical style or image. After a short-lived deal with a major Nashville label, he signed with Sony Music’s Lucky Dog label and released two studio albums. His 2001 album, “Step Right Up,” included his only Top 40 country song, “I Want You Bad.”
Robison also served as a judge on the USA Network’s reality TV show “Nashville Star,” where contestants competed for a recording contract in the country music industry. His final album, “High Life,” released in 2013, featured a cover of Bob Dylan’s “When I Paint My Masterpiece.”
In 2018, Robison’s team shared news of his health struggles following a throat surgery. They reported complications during his recovery but assured fans that he was working closely with his doctors to resolve the issues. Robison is survived by his wife, Kristen Robison, and four children and stepchildren. His first wife, Emily Strayer, is a founding member of the country band The Chicks.