Bob Luman made his mark as a smooth-voiced singer blending country and rockabilly. Best known for his 1960 crossover hit “Let’s Think About Living,” Luman brought humor and charm to a music scene often dominated by heartbreak and tragedy songs. With roots in Texas and a career that took him from talent shows to the national charts, Luman earned respect as a tireless performer. His style bridged rockabilly’s youthful energy and country music’s storytelling soul.
Though his career faced challenges—including a stint in the military and a lack of consistent chart-toppers—Luman stayed active until his death in 1978. His music continues to resonate with fans of both genres.
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Robert Glynn Luman |
| Stage Name | Bob Luman |
| Born | April 13, 1937 – Blackjack, Texas, USA |
| Died | December 27, 1978 – Nashville, Tennessee, USA |
| Genres | Country, Rockabilly |
| Instruments | Vocals, Guitar |
| Notable Hit | “Let’s Think About Living” (1960) |
| Other Hits | “Lonely Women Make Good Lovers,” “Still Loving You,” “The File,” “The Payphone” |
| Labels | Imperial, Capitol, Warner Bros., Epic, Hickory |
| Honors | Rockabilly Hall of Fame, Texas Country Music Hall of Fame |
Early Life and Influences
Robert Glynn “Bob” Luman was born on April 13, 1937, in Blackjack, Texas, and raised in nearby Nacogdoches. His musical interests came early. His father, an amateur musician, introduced Bob to fiddle, guitar, and harmonica. At age 13, Bob got his first guitar and never looked back.
While passionate about music, Luman also excelled in sports. As a high school baseball star, he attracted the attention of scouts and received offers from major league teams, including the Pittsburgh Pirates. But ultimately, music won out.
In 1956, Luman entered a talent contest hosted by the Future Farmers of America and won first place. The prize? A spot on the Louisiana Hayride—one of the most important country music platforms of the time. This same stage helped launch the careers of Elvis Presley, Hank Williams, and Johnny Cash.
From Country to Rockabilly
Originally drawn to country, Luman shifted toward rockabilly after seeing Elvis Presley perform live. Inspired, he formed his own band, eventually named the Shadows—not to be confused with the British group of the same name. His version of the Shadows included future legends: guitarist James Burton, bassist James Kirkland, and drummer Butch White.
Signed by Imperial Records in 1957, the band released tracks like “All Night Long” and “Amarillo Blues.” Though the songs showcased Luman’s energy, they didn’t become hits. The Shadows disbanded the following year.
A Record Deal and Military Service
Luman next signed with Capitol Records, releasing “Try Me” and “I Know My Baby Cares.” Capitol pushed for a name change to make him more marketable, but Luman refused. Standing his ground, he left Capitol and joined Warner Bros. Records, where he recorded “Class of ’59” and “Loretta.”
In 1960, Luman was drafted into the U.S. Army. But just before his departure, Warner Bros. released a novelty track that would define his career: “Let’s Think About Living.”
The Story Behind “Let’s Think About Living”
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Written by Boudleaux Bryant (best known for his work with the Everly Brothers), “Let’s Think About Living” turned heads with its cheerful critique of gloomy pop songs. At the time, music charts were filled with tragedy-themed tunes. Luman’s single poked fun at them by imagining a world where all the sad songs came true and left no one alive to make music.
The lyrics reference well-known tracks like “El Paso” by Marty Robbins and “Cathy’s Clown” by the Everly Brothers, suggesting it was time for music to focus on living, loving, and dancing.
The song was an instant success:
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#7 on the Billboard Hot 100
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#9 on the Billboard Country chart
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#6 in the UK
Ironically, Luman had considered quitting music around this time. Frustrated with his lack of commercial success, he even planned to join the Pittsburgh Pirates. At a farewell show, he announced this decision. Fortunately, the Everly Brothers—who were in the audience—convinced him to keep going. They even recommended “Let’s Think About Living,” which became the career-saving hit he needed.
Career in the 1960s and Beyond
After finishing military service in 1962, Luman relocated to Nashville. He married and restarted his music career by signing with Hickory Records. His single “The File” reached #24 on the country chart.
Luman soon became a regular performer in Las Vegas, developing a loyal following with his upbeat shows. In 1968, he joined Epic Records, releasing two of his most successful country hits:
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“Still Loving You”
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“Lonely Women Make Good Lovers” (his highest-charting country single, peaking at #4)
He remained active through the 1970s, continuing to record and tour. His final single, “The Payphone,” came out in 1978.
Legacy and Death
On December 27, 1978, Bob Luman died from pneumonia at just 41 years old. Despite his short life, he left behind a rich catalog that bridged early rock and classic country.
In recognition of his contributions, he was inducted into:
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The Rockabilly Hall of Fame
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The Texas Country Music Hall of Fame
Though not as widely known today as some of his peers, Luman’s music remains a favorite among rockabilly and classic country fans.
Final Thoughts
Bob Luman’s career was a blend of persistence, talent, and good timing. From high school baseball star to rockabilly singer to country hitmaker, Luman proved that musical passion could outlast early setbacks. His hit “Let’s Think About Living” not only captured a moment in pop culture but also offered a lighthearted reminder that music doesn’t always have to be serious.
Even today, his work holds up. Whether through vinyl collections, digital playlists, or covers by modern artists, Bob Luman’s voice continues to echo through the history of American music.