Few names in the blues world carry as much weight as the legendary Robert Cray and his band. With a career spanning over four decades, Robert Cray has become a cornerstone of modern blues, blending soulful vocals with masterful guitar work that transcends generations. From smooth, heart-wrenching ballads to electrifying solos that leave you breathless, The Robert Cray Band has consistently delivered timeless tracks that resonate with audiences across the globe.
In this article, we dive deep into the top 10 most popular Robert Cray Band songs of all time. These are the songs that have not only defined Cray’s career but have also cemented his place in the pantheon of blues greats. Whether you’re a lifelong fan or new to his music, this list will take you on a sonic journey through Cray’s greatest hits, showcasing the raw emotion, lyrical depth, and musical prowess that make his band truly legendary. From Grammy-winning hits to fan favorites, prepare to rediscover the magic of one of blues’ most enduring voices. Let’s crank up the volume and explore the tracks that have made Robert Cray a household name in the world of blues!
1. Smoking Gun (1986)
Released in 1986 as part of the Strong Persuader album, “Smoking Gun” quickly became synonymous with the Robert Cray Band’s rise to fame. The song’s infectious groove, combined with Cray’s smooth, soulful vocals and sharp guitar riffs, captivated blues and mainstream listeners alike. It tells the story of a man wrestling with suspicion and betrayal, and Cray’s delivery makes you feel every ounce of his emotional turmoil. “Smoking Gun” was a breakout hit, reaching No. 22 on the Billboard Hot 100, making it one of Cray’s most commercially successful tracks. The song’s blend of blues, soul, and pop sensibilities helped bring blues back into the limelight in the late ’80s.
2. Right Next Door (Because of Me) (1986)
Another standout from Strong Persuader, “Right Next Door (Because of Me)” is a song drenched in remorse and regret. Released in 1986, the song paints a vivid picture of a man overhearing his neighbor’s heartbreak, realizing that he’s the cause of it. Cray’s soulful voice brings the emotional weight of the song’s narrative to life, and the guitar work, understated yet powerful, complements the somber tone. This track became a fan favorite for its storytelling, making it one of Cray’s most enduring songs, and further cementing his place in blues history.
3. Don’t Be Afraid of the Dark (1988)
The title track from the 1988 album Don’t Be Afraid of the Dark is an upbeat, infectious tune that showcases Cray’s ability to blend blues with a more polished, radio-friendly sound. The song’s catchy chorus and lively instrumentation make it a stark contrast to some of his darker, more introspective tracks. Despite its lighter tone, Cray’s signature soulful guitar and vocals shine through, making this song a staple of his live performances. It also earned him a Grammy Award for Best Contemporary Blues Album, solidifying his reign in the blues world.
4. I Guess I Showed Her (1986)
Also featured on the Strong Persuader album, “I Guess I Showed Her” is a brash, confident tune about a man who believes he’s moved on after a breakup—only to realize he’s still deeply affected. Released in 1986, the song’s upbeat tempo and catchy guitar licks make it one of Cray’s more playful tracks. The clever lyrics and infectious rhythm helped it become a hit on both the blues and rock charts, showcasing Cray’s versatility as an artist.
5. Phone Booth (1983)
One of Robert Cray’s earlier hits, “Phone Booth” was released in 1983 on the Bad Influence album. The song captures the desperation of a man trying to salvage a broken relationship, calling from a phone booth in a last-ditch effort. Cray’s guitar work on this track is exceptional, with his piercing solos conveying a sense of urgency and longing. The song helped establish Cray as a major force in the blues scene and is still a fan favorite during his live shows.
6. Nothin’ But a Woman (1988)
“Nothin’ But a Woman” is a lively, feel-good track from the Don’t Be Afraid of the Dark album, released in 1988. The song is a celebration of love and companionship, with an infectious rhythm and upbeat tempo that makes it impossible not to tap your feet. Cray’s smooth vocals paired with his tight guitar riffs create a perfect blend of blues and soul. This track became a staple in Cray’s live performances, thanks to its danceable groove and joyful energy.
7. Forecast (Calls for Pain) (1990)
Released in 1990 as part of the Midnight Stroll album, “Forecast (Calls for Pain)” is one of Cray’s darker, more introspective songs. The track delves into themes of heartache and betrayal, with Cray’s soulful voice delivering the pain and sorrow that the lyrics demand. The song’s slow, deliberate tempo allows Cray’s guitar to shine, with each note dripping with emotion. It’s a powerful track that showcases the depth of Cray’s blues roots.
8. The Things You Do to Me (1992)
Featured on the 1992 album I Was Warned, “The Things You Do to Me” is a sultry, slow-burning blues track that highlights Cray’s mastery of storytelling. The song deals with the emotional turmoil of a toxic relationship, with Cray’s vocals and guitar work perfectly capturing the frustration and longing that come with love’s darker side. The track’s haunting melody and powerful lyrics make it a standout on the album, and a testament to Cray’s ability to convey complex emotions through his music.
9. I Was Warned (1992)
The title track from the 1992 album I Was Warned is a dark, moody song that showcases Cray’s ability to blend blues with elements of rock and soul. The song’s lyrics deal with themes of caution and regret, with Cray’s soulful vocals delivering a sense of foreboding. The slow, deliberate pace of the song allows Cray’s guitar solos to take center stage, providing a perfect complement to the song’s ominous tone. It’s a powerful track that showcases Cray’s continued growth as an artist.
10. Strong Persuader (1986)
As the title track from Cray’s breakthrough 1986 album Strong Persuader, this song is a defining moment in his career. The track’s smooth blend of blues, soul, and pop elements helped introduce Cray to a wider audience. The song’s lyrics tell the story of a man who uses charm and persuasion to win over a lover, but Cray’s delivery hints at the emotional complexity beneath the surface. With its catchy rhythm and polished production, “Strong Persuader” became one of Cray’s signature songs and a defining track of the 1980s blues revival.
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.
