The Robert Cray Band is an American blues and soul band that has been a prominent figure in the music industry for over four decades. Led by the virtuosic guitarist and singer Robert Cray, the band has become known for their smooth and soulful sound, blending elements of blues, R&B, and rock into a unique and timeless style.
Formed in 1974 in Washington State, the Robert Cray Band began to gain recognition in the 1980s with their hit songs “Smoking Gun” and “Right Next Door (Because of Me)”. The band’s soulful vocals, intricate guitar work, and tight musicianship quickly made them a fan favorite, and they have continued to produce music that is both innovative and deeply rooted in tradition.
In addition to their music career, the Robert Cray Band has also been involved in numerous philanthropic efforts, including support for the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation and the National Parks Conservation Association.
The Robert Cray Band’s impact on the music industry and American culture cannot be overstated. With their soulful sound and innovative approach to blues and soul, they have inspired generations of musicians and music lovers alike. Robert Cray’s virtuosic guitar playing and emotive vocals have earned him numerous awards and accolades, cementing his status as one of the greatest guitarists of all time. The Robert Cray Band remains a testament to the enduring power of blues and soul music, and a reminder of the importance of preserving and honoring musical traditions.
1. She’s Gone
“She’s Gone” is a soulful and emotional ballad by the Robert Cray Band, featured on their 1983 album “Bad Influence”. The song’s gentle guitar work and Robert Cray’s heartfelt vocals create a somber and introspective atmosphere, with lyrics that describe the pain of losing someone you love. The song’s melancholic melody and poignant lyrics make it a fan favorite and a testament to the band’s ability to convey complex emotions through their music. “She’s Gone” is a reminder of the enduring power of soul music and the Robert Cray Band’s status as one of the genre’s greatest and most innovative artists.
2. Acting This Way
“Acting This Way” is a soulful blues song by the Robert Cray Band, known for its smooth guitar work and emotive vocals. The song features Cray’s signature guitar playing and soulful voice, creating a sense of passion and longing. The lyrics speak to the idea of a relationship on the brink of collapse, with Cray singing, “We’re talking in circles, and we can’t find our way / We’re holding on tightly, and we’re slipping away.” The song’s memorable guitar solo and powerful chorus have made it a fan favorite and a testament to Cray’s talents as a musician and songwriter. “Acting This Way” is a timeless example of soulful blues music.
3. Will You Think of Me
“Will You Think of Me” is a soulful and emotive ballad by the Robert Cray Band, released in 1988 on their album “Don’t Be Afraid of the Dark.” The song features Cray’s smooth and soulful vocals, accompanied by a stripped-down arrangement that puts the focus on his heartfelt lyrics. The song describes a narrator who is haunted by memories of lost love, and who pleads with their former lover to remember them. “Will You Think of Me” is a beautiful and poignant song that showcases Cray’s talent as a songwriter and performer, and remains a favorite of blues and soul fans alike.
4. Bad Influence
“Bad Influence” is a classic 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 work, accompanied by a driving rhythm section and a powerful horn section. The lyrics describe a narrator who is drawn to a life of trouble and temptation, and who laments the negative impact they have on those around them. “Bad Influence” is a gritty and soulful song that showcases Cray’s talent as a guitarist and bandleader, and remains a staple of the blues-rock genre.
5. Time Makes Two
“Time Makes Two” is a soulful blues ballad by the Robert Cray Band, known for its heartfelt lyrics and soaring guitar work. The song features Cray’s emotive vocals and soulful guitar playing, creating a sense of raw emotion and vulnerability. The lyrics speak to the idea of a relationship gone wrong and the power of time to heal and eventually move on, with Cray singing, “Time makes two disappear, love will bring it back someday.” The song’s powerful chorus and soulful guitar solos have made it a fan favorite and a testament to Cray’s talents as a songwriter and musician. “Time Makes Two” is a timeless example of soulful blues music.
6. Consequences
“Consequences” is a soulful and bluesy track by the Robert Cray Band, featured on their 2020 album “That’s What I Heard”. The song’s intricate guitar work and Robert Cray’s soulful vocals create a powerful and introspective atmosphere, with lyrics that reflect on the consequences of actions and the importance of taking responsibility for one’s own life. The song’s timeless sound and timeless message make it a standout track on the album and a testament to the band’s ability to combine traditional blues and soul influences with modern sensibilities. “Consequences” is a reminder of the Robert Cray Band’s enduring legacy as one of the greatest blues and soul bands of all time.
7. The Forecast (Calls for Pain)
“The Forecast (Calls for Pain)” is a bluesy rock song by the Robert Cray Band, released in 1990 on their album “Midnight Stroll.” The song features Cray’s soulful and emotive vocals, set against a powerful arrangement that incorporates a dynamic horn section and a driving rhythm section. The lyrics describe a narrator who sees trouble on the horizon and who prepares for the pain that is to come. “The Forecast (Calls for Pain)” is a powerful and evocative song that showcases Cray’s talent as a songwriter and performer, and remains a fan favorite among blues and rock enthusiasts alike.
8. Right Next Door (Because of Me)
“Right Next Door (Because of Me)” is a soulful blues song by the Robert Cray Band, known for its smooth guitar work and emotive vocals. The song features Cray’s signature guitar playing and soulful voice, creating a sense of passion and longing. The lyrics speak to the idea of a man falling in love with his neighbor’s wife, with Cray singing, “I see him leave for work each day, and I know he’s working overtime / I see her and darkness steals my heart away.” The song’s memorable guitar riff and powerful chorus have made it a fan favorite and a testament to Cray’s talents as a musician and songwriter. “Right Next Door (Because of Me)” is a timeless example of soulful blues music.
9. Don’t Be Afraid of The Dark
“Don’t Be Afraid of The Dark” is a classic blues song by the Robert Cray Band, released in 1986. The song’s driving rhythm and Robert Cray’s soulful vocals create a sense of urgency and intensity, with lyrics that describe the fear and uncertainty of the unknown. The song’s unforgettable chorus and memorable guitar riffs make it a fan favorite and a testament to the band’s ability to combine traditional blues influences with modern sensibilities. “Don’t Be Afraid of The Dark” remains a beloved classic of the genre, and a reminder of the enduring power of blues music.
10. Smoking Gun
“Smoking Gun” is a classic blues-rock song by the Robert Cray Band, released in 1986. The song’s infectious guitar riff and Robert Cray’s soulful vocals create a sense of energy and excitement, with lyrics that describe the betrayal and heartbreak of a broken relationship. The song’s catchy chorus and driving beat make it an instant classic and one of the band’s most beloved hits. “Smoking Gun” is a testament to the Robert Cray Band’s ability to combine blues and rock influences into a sound that is both timeless and innovative, and a reminder of the enduring power of their music.
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.
