The 2025 MusicFest Artists’ Tribute to a Legend: Honoring Charlie Robison
Celebrating the Legacy of a Texas Icon and Officially Launching “My Hometown, the Charlie Robison Music Foundation For Youth”
In January 2025, The MusicFest at Steamboat Springs will pay tribute to a legend whose impact on the Texas music scene was undeniable: Charlie Robison. The beloved singer-songwriter, whose legacy was built on raw, heartfelt music, will be honored as part of the 23rd edition of the festival, and the tribute promises to be an emotional and unforgettable celebration of his life and career.
The decision to honor Robison as the tribute artist was an obvious choice, according to MusicFest founder John Dickson. “Charlie was a pillar of the Texas Music community. His passing in September 2023 left an irreplaceable void, not just in music but in the hearts of his fans and friends,” says Dickson. “He was one of the top draws at MusicFest every year, and this tribute is about celebrating his contributions both as an artist and as a friend.”
Robison’s brother, Bruce Robison, shares the family’s gratitude: “I’m sure proud to be Charlie’s little brother. MusicFest was a place where Charlie felt at home, and to see his memory honored in this way is a blessing for all of us.” Both Bruce and Charlie’s sister, Robyn Ludwick, will participate in the tribute, keeping Charlie’s memory alive and ensuring that the tribute is as heartfelt and meaningful as the man it’s dedicated to.
The tribute will feature several performances by well-known artists who were close to Charlie throughout his career. These include:
- El Cerrito Place – Wade Bowen
- Feeling Good – Chris Knight
- Reconsider – Reckless Kelly
- New Year’s Day – Max and Heather Stalling
- Down Again – Micky Braun
- Wedding Song – Tony Kamel + Kelly Mickwee
- Indianola – Jason Eady + Cody Canada (with fiddle)
- Poor Man’s Son – Matt Hillyer (solo)
- My Hometown – Ed Jurdi + Gordy Quist
- Sunset Blvd. – Robyn Ludwick
These performances will not only showcase the deep respect and admiration for Robison’s work, but also reflect his influence on generations of musicians and fans. The tribute promises to be a poignant, uplifting experience, celebrating both the man and his music.
A Legacy of Giving: Official Foundation Launch
As part of the tribute and the entire 2025 festival, My Hometown, the Charlie Robison Music Foundation For Youth, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, will officially launch. While initially focused on providing scholarships and access to music education, the foundation is dedicated to empowering underprivileged youth across Texas in all areas Charlie cherished: music, sports, rodeo, band, 4H, FFA, and beyond. With a commitment to diversity and supporting communities, schools, and charities in need, the foundation helps Texas hometown kids gain confidence and a leg up in the world through scholarships and donations.
Speaking about the foundation’s debut, the foundation’s President and Charlie’s sister, Robyn Ludwick, shared her gratitude:
“We would like to wholeheartedly thank John Dickson and Dickson Productions for believing in our cause, putting so much effort behind us, and allowing us to have such a large presence at the 2025 MusicFest in Charlie’s name.”
In addition to scholarships for high school seniors pursuing careers in music, the foundation plans to offer instruments, resources, and opportunities for children in underserved communities to help them thrive.
“Charlie was an All-American boy in the most unexpected ways,” Ludwick shared. “He came from modest beginnings, excelled in everything he set his mind to, and lived life authentically. This foundation will honor that spirit and his legacy.”
Direct one-time or recurring donations to the foundation can be made through its website at charlierobisonfoundation.org.
The Auction: Supporting Charlie’s Legacy
In addition to the music and the tribute performances, MusicFest will host an auction featuring exclusive items that will allow attendees to support the foundation while taking home a piece of MusicFest history. The auction items include:
- Two Custom Neon Signs – Featuring the Charlie Robison Foundation logo
- Three-Person Bay Fishing Trip – In Rockport, TX
- Concert Poster – Signed by Charlie Robison
- Mitchell D120 Guitar – Signed by all MusicFest performers
These items will be available for bidding in person at MusicFest, and all proceeds will go toward supporting My Hometown, the Charlie Robison Music Foundation For Youth.
The foundation’s mission is to carry on Charlie’s legacy of helping others, particularly the youth of Texas. “Charlie’s life was a testament to resilience, authenticity, and giving back to others. We want to continue that work and honor him by helping kids find their voice, whether through music or other passions,” says Ludwick.
Gratitude to Supporters
The foundation is also deeply grateful to the individuals and organizations who have made this tribute and launch possible. A special thank you goes to Tony Gates of The Texas Music Scene and Forefront Networks for capturing the incredible interviews that will be featured in the tribute’s opening film. This opening short film before the tribute will help paint a picture of Robison’s life and legacy, showcasing his impact on friends, family, and the entire Texas music community.
Additionally, Liz Foster and the entire team at Dickson Productions have been instrumental in organizing this tribute and ensuring that Charlie’s memory is honored in the most meaningful way possible. “We couldn’t be more thankful for their unwavering support,” says Ludwick.
Looking Ahead
As MusicFest celebrates its 39th year, the tribute to Charlie Robison promises to be a major highlight. The event will provide an opportunity for fans, artists, and friends alike to come together and celebrate a life that touched so many. It’s a celebration of not only Charlie’s music but also his legacy as a friend, brother, and mentor.
The 2025 MusicFest will take place from January 6-11 at Steamboat Springs, Colorado, and fans can expect an unforgettable tribute to one of Texas Music’s greatest icons.
Tribute access is free and available to MusicFest participants only. See Festival App for details to attend.
For more information about the tribute, the auction, and how to support My Hometown, the Charlie Robison Music Foundation For Youth, visit The MusicFest Artists Tribute Page.