Over the course of his career, songwriter Bobby Boyd had the opportunity to write for some of the biggest names in country music. His songs were recorded by everyone from Conway Twitty to George Jones, but he is perhaps best known for writing a number one hit for Garth Brooks.
That song was “Two of a Kind, Workin’ on a Full House,” which Boyd co-wrote with Dennis Robbins and Warren Dale Haynes. Boyd’s website states that he wrote the song as a tribute to his parents. It was released by Brooks in 1991 as the third single off of his album No Fences, and became his fifth number one hit in a row.
In addition to writing “Two of a Kind, Workin’ on a Full House,” Boyd also co-wrote “Workin’ Man’s Ph.D,” which was a Top 10 hit for Aaron Tippin in 1993.
Other than country, Boyd also worked alongside R&B artists. As a young performer in the 1960s and 1970s, Boyd had the chance to team up with iconic artists such as Little Richard, The Coasters, and The Platters. In later years, Boyd made further contributions to the R&B genre by writing songs along with notable names such as Kostas and Lonnie Mack.
Wanting a change of pace, Boyd made the decision to move from Nashville to the Austin, Texas area a few years ago. The move gave Boyd the chance to perform with some recognizable figures in the country scene, including Billy Joe Shaver, Toby Keith, and Willie Nelson.
After such a long and fruitful career, we’re sad to report that Boyd passed away on Thursday (June 22). He was 69 years old.
A GoFund Me established by Boyd’s family states that Boyd’s body will be cremated and that his ashes will be returned to the town of Dunlap, Tennessee. If you would like to help the family with their expenses, you can donate to the GoFundMe here.
You can also remember Boyd by tuning in below to listen to his recording of his most-well known song, “Two of a Kind, Workin’ on a Full House.”
We’re saddened to hear that country music has lost yet another one of its greatest songwriters. Our thoughts and prayers go out to Boyd’s many friends and loved ones during this difficult time.