Quick Wiki
- Full Name Martin David Robinson
- Birth Date September 26, 1925,
- Death Date 1982-12-08
- Age At Death 57
- Place Of Death Nashville, Tennessee, U.S.
- Birthplace Glendale, Arizona, United States
- Occupation Musician, song writer, NASCAR driver
Marty Robbins | Biography
Marty Robbins was a legendary country music figure whose career spanned decades, leading him to win multiple Grammy Awards and create everlasting hits.
Who is Marty Robbins?
Marty Robbins, born Martin David Robinson on September 26, 1925, in Glendale, Arizona, was a legendary figure in country and Western music. He initially learned to play guitar while serving in the U.S. Navy during World War II, sparking a lifelong passion for songwriting and performance.
After the war, Robbins began his career in the vibrant club scene around Phoenix, Arizona, quickly gaining recognition through local radio and television programs. His breakthrough came when he signed with Columbia Records in 1951, leading to an illustrious career marked by numerous hits and accolades, including Grammy Awards for his iconic songs.
Marty Robbins is perhaps best remembered for his storytelling prowess and rich vocal style, which resonated deeply with fans. He achieved mainstream success in the late 1950s with chart-topping singles like "Singing the Blues" and the enduring classic "El Paso," which earned him a Grammy Award.
Throughout the 1960s and 1970s, Robbins produced a string of memorable songs, including "My Woman, My Woman, My Wife" and "Among My Souvenirs," solidifying his status as a country music superstar. Beyond his musical career, Robbins was passionate about auto racing, regularly competing in NASCAR events. His contributions to the genre were recognized with his induction into the Country Music Hall of Fame in 1982, shortly before his passing on December 8 of that year.
Early Life and Education
Marty Robbins, born Martin David Robinson on September 26, 1925, in Glendale, Arizona, was the second youngest of nine siblings. Growing up in a musically infused household, he was influenced by his father, an amateur harmonica player, and his grandfather, a storyteller who inspired Robbins with tales that would later influence his songwriting.
This early exposure to music and storytelling shaped Robbins's artistic inclinations, particularly during his formative years in Arizona, where the cultural backdrop offered ample inspiration for his future career in country music.
At the age of 12, Robbins experienced the upheaval of his parents' divorce, leading him and his siblings to relocate with their mother to Phoenix. After dropping out of high school, he engaged in hard labor, working a variety of jobs, including herding goats and breaking wild horses.
His desire for a music career ignited when he enlisted in the United States Navy during World War II. It was in the Pacific theater that Robbins began teaching himself to play guitar, laying the foundation for his future as a country music icon. Upon returning home in 1946, he was determined to pursue a career in entertainment, which would soon lead him to local clubs and radio shows in Arizona.
Radio Star: Career Beginnings in the 1940s
Marty Robbins began his illustrious music career in the 1940s, a time that marked the inception of his rise to fame as a country and western singer. After serving in the U.S. Navy during World War II, Robbins returned home to Phoenix with a newfound passion for music and songwriting. It was during this period that he developed his guitar skills and started performing at local bars and nightclubs.
His breakthrough moment came when he secured a spot on a radio show, which propelled him to greater visibility in the music community. By the late 1940s, Robbins had established his own radio program, "Chuck Wagon Time," and had also branched into television with his show "Western Caravan."
Robbins's hard work and determination soon garnered the attention of Columbia Records. In 1951, he signed with the label, marking a significant turning point in his career. His first single, "Love Me or Leave Me Alone," laid the groundwork for future success, although it didn't achieve notable recognition.
However, he quickly rebounded by releasing "I'll Go on Alone" in 1953, which became one of his early Top 10 hits. Following this, Robbins joined the cast of the Grand Ole Opry, solidifying his presence in the country music scene. His unique storytelling ability paired with a rich voice captivated audiences, setting the stage for the numerous chart-topping hits that would follow throughout the 1950s and beyond.
Mainstream Success: Hits and Achievements
Marty Robbins achieved remarkable mainstream success from the mid-1950s onward, firmly establishing himself as a dominant force in country music. His first No. 1 single, "Singing the Blues," released in 1956, quickly captured the hearts of country music fans.
Following up with two more chart-toppers in 1957— "A White Sport Coat" and "The Story of My Life"—Robbins showcased his ability to blend impactful storytelling with melodic hooks. Alongside hits like "Knee Deep in the Blues" and "Please Don't Blame Me," he laid the groundwork for an extensive and successful music career that earned him admiration and recognition across the genre.
In 1959, Robbins released the pivotal album "Gunfighter Ballads and Trail Songs," which solidified his legacy with enduring classics like “El Paso” and “Big Iron.” Winning the Grammy Award for Best Country and Western Recording for "El Paso" further marked his artistic achievements.
Known for his powerful voice and compelling lyricism, Robbins continued to produce numerous unforgettable tracks throughout the 1960s, including “Devil Woman,” “Ruby Ann,” and “Ribbon of Darkness.” His unique blend of traditional country themes with modern sensibilities resonated with audiences, making him one of the most prominent figures in country music history.
Death and Legacy
Marty Robbins, a pivotal figure in country music, left an indelible mark on the genre before his untimely death in 1982. Despite struggling with health issues, including severe heart attacks, he continued to produce music and perform, demonstrating his unwavering passion for his craft.
He was posthumously inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame in October 1982, recognizing his remarkable contributions to the music world. Just before his passing, Robbins managed to release a final single, "Some Memories Won't Die," encapsulating his dedication and talent as a songwriter and performer.
Throughout his illustrious career, Robbins recorded over 500 songs and released 60 albums, earning two Grammy Awards along the way. His ability to consistently land hits was remarkable, with at least one song appearing on the Billboard country singles charts for 19 consecutive years.
From iconic tracks like "El Paso" to heartfelt ballads such as "My Woman, My Woman, My Wife," Robbins's storytelling prowess resonated deeply with audiences. He often remarked on his modest musical abilities but emphasized his gift for songwriting, saying he "could write [a song] pretty well." His legacy continues to inspire aspiring musicians within the country music genre and beyond.
Personal Life: Married Life | Wife | Children
Marty Robbins was a devoted family man, married to his wife, Marizona, since 1948. Their marriage lasted for over three decades, showcasing the deep bond they shared throughout Robbins's successful yet tumultuous career in music and auto racing. Marizona, often a source of support during Robbins's demanding schedule and health struggles, played a crucial role in his personal life.
Their partnership was filled with love and understanding, which was reflected in Robbins's music, where themes of love and devotion often echoed through his heartfelt ballads.
Together, Marty and Marizona raised two children, contributing to their reputation as a close-knit family. Robbins often drew inspiration from his family life, using his experiences as a husband and father to enrich his songwriting.
His songs frequently celebrated themes of love and relationships, mirroring the affection he had for Marizona and their children. Despite the pressures of his career, Robbins always made time for his family, understanding the importance of keeping those connections strong amidst the chaos of fame.
Net Worth and Earning: Earnings from Music Career
Marty Robbins, renowned for his captivating country and Western music, enjoyed a prolific career that significantly boosted his net worth.
By the time of his passing in 1982, Robbins had recorded over 500 songs and released around 60 albums, many of which achieved commercial success. His hits in the 1950s and 1960s, including classics like "El Paso," "Singing the Blues," and "My Woman, My Woman, My Wife," were not just staples of country music; they also contributed substantially to his financial success.
While specific figures regarding his net worth during his lifetime aren't widely available, it's clear that his sustained chart presence during 19 consecutive years had a significant impact on his earnings.
In addition to music sales, Robbins earned income through concert tours, radio shows, and television appearances, where he showcased his talent and charisma. His role as a regular member of the Grand Ole Opry solidified his stature in the country music community and further helped increase his earnings.
Moreover, Robbins' passion for auto racing opened new avenues for income, albeit with risks associated with the sport. His artistic legacy endures through the continued popularity of his songs, highlighting the enduring impact of his musical contributions on the country genre and ensuring his financial success long after his passing.
