The Robert Cray Band is an American blues rock band formed in 1974 in Eugene, Oregon. The band’s lineup has changed over the years, but has consistently featured lead vocalist and guitarist Robert Cray.
Cray’s music is characterized by his soulful voice and his blues-influenced guitar playing, which has been compared to that of legends such as B.B. King and Albert Collins. His hits, including “Smoking Gun,” “Right Next Door (Because of Me),” and “I Guess I Showed Her,” are classics of the genre and continue to be celebrated today.
The Robert Cray Band has won several awards over the years, including five Grammy Awards, and their music has influenced a generation of blues and rock artists. In addition to his music career, Cray has also acted in films and on television, including appearances on “Miami Vice” and “The Simpsons.”
Despite several lineup changes over the years, the Robert Cray Band continues to create music and tour to this day, and their legacy as one of the most influential blues rock bands of all time continues to grow.
1. Smoking Gun
A standout hit of the Robert Cray Band, famously known as '1. Smoking Gun', is a timeless classic that still draws fans to this day. With its groovy rhythm and soulful lyrics, this song has become a staple of blues music.
To delve deeper into what makes '1. Smoking Gun' such an iconic track, let's take a look at some key insights in the form of a Table. Here are some interesting details about the song:
| Column 1 | Column 2 |
|---|---|
| Artist Name | Robert Cray Band |
| Genre | Blues Rock |
| Album Name | Strong Persuader |
| Released Year | 1986 |
| Song Duration | 4:07 minutes |
With this information, we can better appreciate the historical significance and influence of '1. Smoking Gun'.
Despite the immense success of this song, there are still lesser-known facts worth sharing with fans. For example, it was recorded live in one take with minimal overdubs – a testament to the band's exceptional talent and chemistry.
Don't miss out on the chance to experience the magic of '1. Smoking Gun' and other top hits from Robert Cray Band! Check out their discography for more brilliant compositions that continue to inspire new generations of enthusiasts.
Robert Cray's 'Right Next Door' is like a musical version of 'Keeping Up with the Kardashians', but actually worth listening to.
2. Right Next Door (Because Of Me)
This hit track by Robert Cray Band, situated just on the other side of my house (due to me), is a captivating piece that tells the story of illicit love affairs. Featuring melodic guitar strokes and soulful vocals, it is sure to keep you hooked. The song is an excellent representation of Cray's music style, with blues-inspired riffs mixed with R&B and soul elements. 'Right Next Door (Because Of Me)' showcases his unique songwriting talent and storytelling prowess – a must-listen for any fan of the genre.
Listeners can appreciate the raw emotions conveyed through its lyrics, sung by Cray in his signature wailing voice. The emotional depth of this single made it a significant milestone in Robert Cray Band's career legacy, helping them break into the mainstream market successfully. It earned him more fame, critical acclaim as well as commercial success that later followed after the release.
Interestingly enough, this song proved to be controversial when it first came out due to its explicit content matter. However, it played a crucial role in creating its lasting impact on fans worldwide, making it one of their most enduring tracks even today.
(Source: https://www.udiscovermusic.com/stories/best-robert-cray-songs/)
There's nothing to fear in the dark, except maybe accidentally hitting play on Nickelback instead of Robert Cray Band.
3. Don’t Be Afraid Of The Dark
This track embraces the message of conquering fear and doubt. The soulful and bluesy tune impels listeners to let go of their apprehensions and trust themselves. It was released in 1986 as one of the gems in Robert Cray Band's album.
"Don’t Be Afraid Of The Dark" is a well-composed piece with a heavy emphasis on groovy rhythms, punctuated by Cray's deft guitar playing and mellow voice. The lyrics convey a simple but powerful statement that resonates with its audience through its unadorned musicality.
The song features captivating instrumentals, such as keyboard riffs complementing Cray's guitar chords, making for an enchanting sound. This masterpiece landed at number 31 on the Billboard Hot Mainstream Rock Tracks chart.
It is not widely known that "Don’t Be Afraid Of The Dark" achieved widespread fame after it was used in a scene from the movie "Days Of Thunder," which starred Tom Cruise. Overall, the song exemplifies the band's excellent musicianship and artistic creativity.
If you're looking for a phone booth in 2021, you might as well be searching for the Robert Cray Band's 11th album.
4. Phone Booth
This song, one of the most recognizable hits from Robert Cray Band, is a soulful blues masterpiece that showcases Cray's unmatched guitar skills and vocal range. Its catchy hook and memorable lyrics make it a timeless classic in the genre. The song was released in 1986 as a single and earned the band a Grammy nomination. Its popularity continues to this day, with frequent airplay on classic rock stations. Notable covers have come from artists such as Blues Traveler and John Mayer.
The story behind "Phone Booth" is said to have been inspired by Cray witnessing a man arguing with his girlfriend in a phone booth outside of a club where he was performing. The man eventually hung up the phone and went into the club alone while his girlfriend walked away. This image stuck with Cray, and he used it to create the heartbreaking lyrics of the song. When recording "Phone Booth," producer Bruce Bromberg suggested adding horns to give it an R&B sound, which further enhanced its appeal.
Listening to \'Bad Influence\' is like giving in to temptation, but in the best possible way.
5. Bad Influence
This track from Robert Cray Band's discography, widely known as "Unfavorable Impact", talks about the bad decisions that are taken under the influence of drugs and alcohol which can become a negative impact on people's lives. The lyrics capture a gritty story and provide easy-to-understand warnings about the dangers of substance abuse. Its effortless guitar solo by Cray exhibits an extraordinary musical proficiency that symbolizes his talent.
The song fits perfectly into the blues genre as it uses repetitive chord progressions typical to this style of music. The creative use of syncopation in both drums and bass add layers of dynamics to the song. Additionally, the harmonica counter-melody plays off against Cray's vocals in such a way that creates added emotional depth while conveying double meanings in the lyrics.
Listeners who have experienced emotional pain will find themselves drawn in through intense lyricism connecting with their feelings while leading to indulgence in self-examination. By listening to Bad Influence, listeners indirectly investigate their own lives through self-reflection while enjoying fantastic musicality.
Roberts Cray presents many different approaches to unique storytelling through music. Each track communicates its message uniquely, but all remain truthful with outstanding arrangements. Listening to his music not only serves as a leisure pursuit but also offers thoughtful life lessons worth learning from.
Listening to 'You Move Me' is like taking an emotional rollercoaster ride, except you never want to get off.
6. You Move Me
The seventh song on the list showcases Robert Cray Band's exceptional musicality. You Move Me" hints at the essence of the track as a masterpiece that will undoubtedly move listeners. The following points exemplify why the song is so special:
- Opening with an irresistible guitar riff and the ever-so-soulful vocals of Robert Cray, "You Move Me" grabs attention from the get-go.
- The infectious chorus and sanguine instrumentation that come in midway through only augment the already impressive creation.
- The track features dynamite solos, both from keyboard and guitar, and a groovy bassline that will keep listeners engaged till the very end.
What sets "You Move Me" apart from other tracks by The Robert Cray Band are its tempo shifts and intricate musicianship that never compromise on melody or sound quality. It's important to note that this composition was also included in Robert Cray's 2001 album 'Shoulda Been Home'. Pro Tip: Listen to this track over high-quality headphones for maximum effect.
If revenge is a dish best served cold, then Robert Cray's 'I Guess I Showed Her' is a five-course meal.
7. I Guess I Showed Her
This song showcases Robert Cray's intricate guitar playing and soulful voice. The lyrics tell the story of a man who is determined to prove his worth after being rejected by a woman. The catchy chorus and upbeat rhythm make it a fan favorite. "I Guess I Showed Her" was featured on the band's album 'Midnight Stroll' in 1990.
The track features standout guitar solos, each more intricate than the last. Cray's skills with the instrument are on full display, proving why he is one of the greatest blues guitarists of all time. The lyrics are relatable, telling a story of heartbreak and resilience that listeners can identify with.
Fans of Robert Cray Band praise this song for its catchy hook and powerful message. Its inclusion on the 'Midnight Stroll' album helped skyrocket the album to success, cementing Cray's place in music history as one of the greats.
Fun fact: Robert Cray has won five Grammy awards throughout his career.
Listening to 'All The Way' feels like being wrapped in a warm, bluesy blanket, which is perfect for crying about your ex or just feeling moody in general.
8. All The Way
This Robert Cray Band classic showcases the soulful vocals and effortless, bluesy guitar riffs that define their signature sound. With smooth horns and steady percussion driving the suave melody, "All The Way" is an embodiment of the band's talent for bringing together diverse elements into one cohesive track. The intricate guitar work accentuates the romantic lyrics, making it a go-to love song for fans of all ages.
In additional to its musical virtuosity, "All The Way" stands out for its clever songwriting techniques. Cray masterfully spins a tale of devotion to his lover, using metaphorical language and poetic imagery to paint a picture of unyielding affection. Listeners can't help but be drawn in by his heartfelt plea to take things "all the way," solidifying this hit as one of their best songs.
For fans seeking a true representation of The Robert Cray Band's artistic finesse and ingenuity, "All The Way" delivers on every level with its melodic charm, emotional weight, and compositional brilliance.
Pro Tip: For an even deeper appreciation of this tune, listen closely to how each instrument interacts with each other throughout the song. Pay attention to small details like how the horns accentuate specific phrases or how the percussion subtly shifts in intensity during key moments- these are what make this classic track stand out among their impressive catalog.
You were warned about the awesomeness of Robert Cray Band's 'I Was Warned' and yet you still weren't prepared for it.
9. I Was Warned
Robert Cray Band's famous song 'I Was Warned' is a bluesy track about a man who disregards advice and falls into a trap. With powerful vocals, soulful guitar solos, and catchy hooks, the song captures the essence of the genre. The lyrics describe a man who ignored all warnings about love and went ahead to fall for someone he knew would only bring him trouble.
The song's instrumentation is an excellent fusion of blues and rock rhythms that give it an irresistible groove. The haunting saxophone adds to the overall atmosphere, while the guitar riffs are mesmerizing. 'I Was Warned' showcases Robert Cray Band's musical prowess as they deliver one of their most iconic tracks.
The song's popularity can be attributed to its relatable theme, well-crafted lyrics, and impeccable musicianship. It has earned its place as one of Robert Cray Band's best songs ever recorded.
Overall, 'I Was Warned' is an exemplary display of Robert Cray Band's mastery in blending different genres to create something unique. Its lyrics touch on universal themes that most people can relate to, making it an enduring classic.
Listening to 'Right Next Door' is like watching a great soap opera unfold in three and a half minutes.
10. Right Next Door
One of the top 10 songs by Robert Cray Band is a soulful and bluesy tune about a man who discovers his lover's infidelity with the neighbor. The song, which contains smooth saxophone solos and heartfelt vocals, is a classic example of Robert Cray's ability to effortlessly blend genres and create timeless music. Its lyrics are both relatable and emotive, capturing the pain of betrayal and jealousy.
In "Right Next Door," Robert Cray sings about how he hears strange noises coming from his neighbor's house late at night. Upon further investigation, he discovers that his woman has been spending time with the guy next door. The song's jazzy instrumentation adds to the atmosphere of sultry intrigue and heartbreak that permeates throughout its verses.
One unique detail about "Right Next Door" is that it was released in 1986 as part of the album, "Strong Persuader," which earned Robert Cray his first Grammy Award for Best Contemporary Blues Recording. This song proved to be one of the most popular tracks on that album.
Legend has it that Robert Cray wrote "Right Next Door" about a personal experience where he witnessed an affair between his girlfriend and their neighbor while staying in an apartment complex. His raw emotions upon finding out inspired him to pen this memorable hit.
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.
