Robert Cray is an American blues guitarist, singer, and songwriter who has been making music since the 1970s. His signature blend of blues, rock, and soul has won him numerous awards and accolades, and his music has inspired countless artists in the genre. As the frontman of the Robert Cray Band, Cray has released numerous albums and collaborated with some of the biggest names in music, cementing his place as one of the most important figures in the world of blues.
With such an extensive catalog of music to choose from, narrowing down the top 10 best Robert Cray Band songs of all time is a challenging task. Each song is a testament to Cray’s incredible musicianship and his ability to connect with audiences on a deep and emotional level. From his early days as a blues purist to his later experiments with funk and R&B, the Robert Cray Band’s music is a reflection of their creativity and their dedication to the art of the blues.
This list of the top 10 best Robert Cray Band songs of all time is a tribute to the band’s incredible legacy and their lasting impact on the world of blues. From the soulful “Smoking Gun” to the upbeat “Phone Booth,” each song is a reminder of why the Robert Cray Band remains one of the most beloved groups in the genre.
Whether you’re a longtime fan of the Robert Cray Band or a newcomer to the world of blues music, this list has something for everyone. From slow-burning ballads to high-energy rockers, these songs showcase the band’s versatility and their ability to create music that is both emotionally powerful and technically impressive. Each song is a celebration of the Robert Cray Band’s unique sound and their ability to push the boundaries of what is possible in blues music.
So sit back, relax, and enjoy this countdown of the top 10 best Robert Cray Band songs of all time. It’s a journey through the band’s incredible career, and a reminder of why their music continues to be celebrated and cherished by blues fans around the world.
1. Smoking Gun
“Smoking Gun” is a blues-rock classic by the Robert Cray Band, released in 1986 on their album “Strong Persuader”. The song features Cray’s soulful vocals and searing guitar work, along with a driving rhythm section that propels the song forward. The lyrics tell the story of a man wrongfully accused of a crime and struggling to clear his name, while the infectious melody and catchy chorus make it a fan favorite. “Smoking Gun” remains a defining song of the blues-rock genre, showcasing the Robert Cray Band’s immense talents as musicians and their ability to create a powerful and unforgettable musical experience.
2. Don’t Be Afraid of The Dark
“Don’t Be Afraid of the Dark” is a classic blues rock song by The Robert Cray Band, released in 1988 on their album of the same name. The song features Cray’s soulful vocals and signature guitar licks, with a driving rhythm section and powerful horns. The lyrics encourage listeners to embrace their fears and face the darkness, rather than run from it. The song’s catchy melody and infectious groove made it a hit for the band and a staple of blues rock radio in the late 1980s. “Don’t Be Afraid of the Dark” is a testament to The Robert Cray Band’s talent for crafting memorable and meaningful blues rock songs.
3. Right Next Door (Because of Me)
“Right Next Door (Because of Me)” is a soulful ballad by the Robert Cray Band, released in 1986 on their album “Strong Persuader”. The song features Cray’s smooth vocals and signature guitar work, along with a subdued backing instrumentation that allows the lyrics to take center stage. The song tells the story of a man who becomes involved with a woman in an abusive relationship, and his guilt over being the cause of her suffering. “Right Next Door (Because of Me)” is a poignant and emotionally powerful song that showcases Cray’s abilities as a storyteller and musician, and remains a classic of the blues genre.
4. The Forecast (Calls for Pain)
“The Forecast (Calls for Pain)” is a soulful blues rock song by The Robert Cray Band, released in 1990 on their album “Midnight Stroll”. The song showcases Cray’s virtuosic guitar skills, with a funky groove and powerful vocals. The lyrics tell a story of heartbreak and loss, with Cray warning his lover of the pain that is to come. The song’s powerful chorus and emotional guitar solos make it a standout track on the album, and a fan favorite. “The Forecast (Calls for Pain)” is a testament to The Robert Cray Band’s ability to create soulful, emotional blues rock that resonates with listeners.
5. Consequences
“Consequences” is a blues-rock song by the Robert Cray Band, released in 2017 on their album “Robert Cray & Hi Rhythm”. The song features Cray’s soulful vocals and intricate guitar work, as well as a dynamic rhythm section that creates a driving groove. The lyrics tell the story of a man facing the consequences of his actions, and the pain and regret he feels as a result. “Consequences” showcases the band’s continued ability to create powerful and emotionally resonant music, and remains a testament to Cray’s enduring talent as a musician and songwriter.
6. Time Makes Two
“Time Makes Two” is a soulful and melancholic blues ballad by The Robert Cray Band, released in 2003 on their album “Time Will Tell”. The song features Cray’s emotive vocals and delicate guitar work, with a sparse arrangement that allows the lyrics to shine through. The lyrics reflect on a lost love, with Cray lamenting that no matter how much time passes, he still feels the pain of their separation. The song’s emotional depth and beautiful melody make it a standout track on the album, and a favorite among fans of the band’s blues ballads. “Time Makes Two” is a testament to The Robert Cray Band’s ability to create heartfelt and introspective blues music.
7. Bad Influence
“Bad Influence” is a blues rock song by the Robert Cray Band, released in 1983 on their album of the same name. The song features Cray’s distinctive guitar playing and soulful vocals, and a driving rhythm section that creates a powerful groove. The lyrics describe the narrator’s struggles with a self-destructive lifestyle and the bad influence that surrounds him. “Bad Influence” is a classic of the blues genre and helped establish the Robert Cray Band as one of the most exciting and innovative groups of the era. Its powerful sound and insightful lyrics continue to resonate with audiences today.
8. Will You Think of Me
“Will You Think of Me” is a poignant and emotive blues ballad by The Robert Cray Band, released in 1993 on their album “Shame + A Sin”. The song features Cray’s soulful vocals and delicate guitar work, with a haunting melody that perfectly captures the song’s melancholic mood. The lyrics tell a story of lost love, with Cray asking his former lover if she will remember him and think of him once he is gone. The song’s heartfelt lyrics and emotional melody make it a standout track on the album, and a favorite among fans of the band’s blues ballads. “Will You Think of Me” is a testament to The Robert Cray Band’s ability to create powerful and introspective blues music that speaks to the heart.
9. She’s Gone
“She’s Gone” is a soulful blues ballad by the Robert Cray Band, released in 1990 on their album “Midnight Stroll”. The song features Cray’s soulful vocals and evocative guitar work, as well as a heartfelt melody and stirring lyrics. The song tells the story of a man struggling to come to terms with the loss of a loved one, and the pain and emptiness that ensues. “She’s Gone” is a powerful and emotionally resonant song that showcases the band’s ability to create deeply affecting music that speaks to the heart and soul of the listener.
10. Acting This Way
“Acting This Way” is an upbeat and catchy blues rock song by The Robert Cray Band, released in 1987 on their album “Don’t Be Afraid of the Dark”. The song features Cray’s signature guitar licks and soulful vocals, with a groovy bassline and infectious rhythm that make it a danceable and fun track. The lyrics speak to the frustration of a man who can’t seem to understand why his lover is acting distant and cold, despite his efforts to please her. The song’s upbeat melody and relatable lyrics make it a fan favorite, and a standout track on the album. “Acting This Way” is a testament to The Robert Cray Band’s ability to infuse their blues music with infectious energy and irresistible hooks.