Marty Robbins (1925-1982)

One of the most popular and successful country and western singers of his era, Robbins grew up in  a suburb of Phoenix, Arizona, where, while still a kid he became a huge fan of the legendary singing Cowboys. (Western music remained a constant throughout his 40-year career.) He learned to play guitar while in the Navy during World War II. He returned to Phoenix after the service and established himself locally as a performer and the host of his own radio and, later, television programs. Little Jimmy Dickens, a one-time guest on his television program, recommended him to Columbia Records, leading to his move to Nashville where he became one of the most popular members of the Grand Ole Opry.

1977
Studio portrait/Nashville