Happy Birthday to the great Robert Cray, born August 1, 1953.
Cray has been an influential American blues guitarist and singer, and a prominent figure in the music industry since the late 1970s. Born in Columbus, Georgia, Cray grew up in a military family and moved frequently before settling in Tacoma, Washington. It was during his high school years that he first picked up the guitar, inspired by the soulful sounds of artists like Albert Collins and B.B. King.
Cray formed his first band, The Robert Cray Band, in the mid-1970s, and they quickly gained a reputation for their energetic live performances. The band’s breakthrough came with their 1986 album Strong Persuader, which featured the hit single “Smoking Gun.” This album not only earned Cray a Grammy Award for Best Contemporary Blues Album but also brought blues music into the mainstream, showcasing his smooth vocal style and exceptional guitar skills.
Throughout his career, Robert Cray has released a string of successful albums, including Don’t Be Afraid of the Dark (1988), Midnight Stroll (1990), and Shame + A Sin (1993). His music blends blues with elements of soul and rock, creating a unique sound that appeals to a wide audience. Known for his poignant lyrics and soulful voice, Cray has been praised for his ability to convey deep emotion through his music.
Robert Cray’s contributions to the blues genre have been recognized with multiple Grammy Awards and induction into the Blues Hall of Fame in 2011. Even after four decades in the industry, Cray continues to tour and record, solidifying his legacy as one of the foremost ambassadors of modern blues music.