The Robert Cray Band, led by blues guitarist and vocalist Robert Cray, is a renowned American blues band known for its blend of blues, soul, and rock influences. Formed in the late 1970s, the band gained prominence with its unique sound, marked by Cray’s expressive guitar work and smooth vocals. Their music combines traditional blues with contemporary elements, creating a sophisticated and accessible style. With critically acclaimed albums like *Strong Persuader* and numerous Grammy Awards, the Robert Cray Band has earned a respected place in the blues genre, influencing both fans and fellow musicians with their distinctive sound and emotional depth.
1. Consequences
The Robert Cray Band’s album *Consequences* was released in 1990 and features a blend of blues, soul, and rock, showcasing Robert Cray’s signature guitar work and soulful vocals. The album continues the band’s tradition of combining traditional blues with modern influences, and it highlights their ability to craft both powerful ballads and energetic tracks. *Consequences* includes standout tracks like “I Can’t Fail” and “The End of the Line,” which further solidified Cray’s reputation as a leading figure in contemporary blues. The album received positive reviews for its craftsmanship and emotional depth, reflecting the band’s continued evolution and creativity.
2. The Forecast (Calls for Pain)
The Forecast (Calls for Pain) is a 1994 album by the Robert Cray Band, marking a continuation of their acclaimed blues and soul fusion. This album features Cray’s signature guitar work and smooth, emotive vocals, showcasing his ability to blend traditional blues with contemporary sounds. With tracks like “I Shiver” and “I Can’t Quit You Baby,” *The Forecast (Calls for Pain)* delivers a mix of heartfelt ballads and energetic blues grooves. The album received praise for its sophisticated songwriting and Cray’s skillful performance, reinforcing his place as a key figure in modern blues music.
3. Right Next Door (Because of Me)
“Right Next Door (Because of Me)” is a song by The Robert Cray Band, released in 1986 on their album *Strong Persuader*. Written by Robert Cray and Dennis Walker, the track is a soulful blues song that explores themes of infidelity and emotional turmoil. The lyrics depict a narrative of regret and realization as the protagonist confronts the consequences of his actions, which have led to a troubled relationship.
Cray’s smooth, expressive vocals are complemented by his signature guitar work, creating a blend of blues and R&B that defines the song’s emotional and musical depth. “Right Next Door (Because of Me)” was a significant hit for The Robert Cray Band, helping to establish them as a prominent force in the blues genre during the 1980s.
4. Don’t Be Afraid of The Dark
Don’t Be Afraid of the Dark is a 1988 album by the Robert Cray Band, known for its strong blend of blues, soul, and rock elements. The album showcases Robert Cray’s exceptional guitar skills and soulful vocals, continuing the band’s tradition of merging classic blues with a contemporary edge. Featuring tracks like “Still Around” and “I Guess I Showed Her,” the album highlights Cray’s ability to deliver powerful and emotional performances. *Don’t Be Afraid of the Dark* received critical acclaim for its compelling songwriting and Cray’s impressive musicianship, further establishing him as a leading voice in modern blues.
5. Smoking Gun
“Smoking Gun” is a song by The Robert Cray Band, released in 1986 on their album *Strong Persuader*. Written by Robert Cray, Dennis Walker, and Keith Ferguson, the track is a blues-rock classic known for its compelling narrative and Cray’s distinctive guitar work.
The song’s lyrics tell the story of a man who discovers evidence of infidelity in his relationship, likening the evidence to a “smoking gun” that reveals the truth. The track features a blend of blues and R&B influences, with Cray’s smooth vocals and expressive guitar solos at the forefront. “Smoking Gun” was a significant hit for The Robert Cray Band, reaching the top of the Billboard blues charts and contributing to their critical and commercial success in the 1980s.
6. Acting This Way
“Acting This Way” is a track from Robert Cray’s 1986 album *Strong Persuader*. Known for its blend of blues and soul, the song exemplifies Cray’s distinctive style, combining smooth guitar riffs with heartfelt vocals. The track reflects Cray’s skill in merging traditional blues elements with contemporary sounds, and it contributes to the album’s reputation for its sophisticated and accessible approach to the genre. *Strong Persuader* received widespread acclaim, with “Acting This Way” being one of the standout tracks that helped cement Robert Cray’s status as a leading figure in modern blues.
7. She’s Gone
“She’s Gone” is a track from Robert Cray’s 1990 album *The Forecast (Calls for Pain)*. This song features Cray’s signature blend of blues, soul, and rock, highlighting his emotional vocal delivery and expressive guitar work. “She’s Gone” reflects themes of heartbreak and longing, characteristic of Cray’s storytelling style. The track, like others on the album, showcases his ability to combine traditional blues with a contemporary sound, contributing to the album’s overall critical success and reinforcing Cray’s reputation as a significant artist in the blues genre.
8. Will You Think of Me
“Will You Think of Me” is a poignant track from Robert Cray’s 1989 album *Don’t Be Afraid of the Dark*. The song features Cray’s soulful vocals and expressive guitar work, delivering a heartfelt exploration of love and longing. Known for its emotional depth and smooth, blues-infused sound, “Will You Think of Me” exemplifies Cray’s ability to blend traditional blues with contemporary elements. The track is a standout on the album, contributing to its critical acclaim and showcasing Cray’s skill in crafting powerful, evocative music that resonates with listeners.
9. Bad Influence
“Bad Influence” is a song by The Robert Cray Band, released in 1983 on their album *Bad Influence*. Written by Robert Cray and Dennis Walker, the track is a gritty blues song that explores themes of temptation and the impact of a damaging relationship.
The lyrics describe the narrator’s awareness of a partner’s negative influence and the struggles of resisting their allure despite knowing it’s not good for him. The song features Cray’s soulful vocal delivery and his signature blues guitar work, combined with a driving rhythm that underscores the song’s emotional intensity. “Bad Influence” is known for its raw, honest portrayal of the challenges in a turbulent relationship and remains a standout track in The Robert Cray Band’s catalog.
10. Time Makes Two
“Time Makes Two” is a track from Robert Cray’s 1986 album *Strong Persuader*. The song highlights Cray’s smooth, soulful vocals and his skillful guitar work, blending blues with a contemporary flair. “Time Makes Two” explores themes of love and relationships, featuring a melodic, reflective style that complements the album’s overall sound. The track contributes to the album’s success, which was instrumental in elevating Cray’s career and solidifying his place in modern blues. *Strong Persuader* is widely regarded for its polished production and Cray’s ability to fuse traditional blues with a fresh, accessible approach.
Edward Tomlin is a frequent contributor to Singers Room. Since 2005, Singersroom has been the voice of R&B around the world. Connect with us via social media below.
