In 1970, Marty Robbins was named the Academy of Country Music’s “Man of the Decade”—a tribute not only to his incredible talent but also to his remarkable character. One story that truly captures Marty’s compassion is the creation of the song “Two Little Boys.” The story begins with a heartbreaking tragedy in country music. In 1963, a devastating plane crash claimed the lives of several stars, including Patsy Cline and Hawkshaw Hawkins. The loss sent shockwaves through the music community. Among those left to grieve was Hawkshaw’s wife, fellow singer Jean Shepard. She faced the heartbreaking challenge of raising their young son, Don Robin Hawkins, alone, while pregnant with their second child, Harold Hawkins. Marty Robbins, a close family friend, was deeply moved by Jean’s struggle. Wanting to do more than offer words of sympathy, he channeled his empathy into writing “Two Little Boys.” The song’s lyrics unfold like a poignant monologue from a grieving widow, seeing her late husband reflected in their two sons and imagining how proud he would be of them. But Marty’s kindness didn’t stop at the song. In an extraordinary act of generosity, he chose not to claim songwriting credit. Instead, he credited Don and Harold Hawkins as the composers, ensuring that all royalties would go directly to support their future. This story stands as a testament not just to Marty Robbins’ artistry, but to the heart of a man who used his gift to care for those he loved.

Introduction

In the rich legacy of Marty Robbins, known for classics like “El Paso” and “A White Sport Coat,” there lies a deeply moving story behind a lesser-known song: “Two Little Boys.” This track is much more than a melody; it is a legacy of friendship, compassion, and quiet generosity.

The story unfolds against one of the darkest moments in country music history. In March 1963, a tragic plane crash took the lives of iconic stars Patsy Cline, Cowboy Copas, and Hawkshaw Hawkins. The loss was devastating, especially for Jean Shepard, Hawkshaw’s widow. Suddenly left to raise their young son Don—and pregnant with their second child, Harold—Jean faced a future shadowed by grief and uncertainty.

Witnessing his friend’s heartbreak, Marty Robbins knew that simple words of sympathy wouldn’t suffice. Instead, he chose to act in a way only a true friend and artist could. He penned “Two Little Boys,” a heartfelt song that tells a poignant story from Jean’s perspective, reflecting on the enduring image of her late husband living on through their two sons. The song’s blend of sorrow and hope became a beautiful tribute to legacy and love.

But Robbins’ kindness did not stop there. When registering the song’s copyright, he made a remarkable decision: he credited the songwriting not to himself, but to Don Hawkins and H.D. Hawkins Jr.—Jean’s two sons. This extraordinary gesture guaranteed that all royalties would directly support the future of these fatherless boys.

This act of generosity was more than financial support—it was a lasting promise of care from a friend who understood the true meaning of family and loyalty.

While “Two Little Boys” may not be Robbins’ most famous hit, the story behind it reveals the heart of a man whose generosity and compassion transcended music. It’s a testament to how talent can shine brightest when paired with kindness and humanity.

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