Robert Cray

Robert Cray

Robert Cray is an American blues guitarist, singer and songwriter from Columbus, Georgia. He leads the Robert Cray Band and also maintains a solo career. His music is associated with blues, blues rock, electric blues, electric Texas blues, soul and soul blues.

Early life and influences

Cray starts playing guitar in his early teens. While attending Denbigh High School in Newport News, Virginia, he develops a strong interest in blues and soul music and begins collecting records. He originally aims to become an architect, and around the time he plans to study architecture and design he forms a local band called Steakface. That group plays material by artists including Jimi Hendrix, Quicksilver Messenger Service, Fleetwood Mac, the Grease Band, Blodwyn Pig, Jethro Tull, Forever More, Spirit and The Faces.

By the time he is 20, Cray has seen Albert Collins, Freddie King and Muddy Waters in concert, and this leads him to form his own band. The band goes on to play college towns on the west coast.

Recording career

After several years of regional success, Cray signs to Mercury Records in 1982. His third release, Strong Persuader, wins a Grammy Award and the single Smokin' Gun brings him wider recognition and crossover appeal. During the late 1980s he is among the artists who receive broader radio play and regular MTV exposure. He also appears as an opening act for major performers such as Eric Clapton, who remains a friend.

Awards and recognition

Cray is a five-time Grammy Award winner and is inducted into the Blues Hall of Fame in 2011.

Guitars and recordings

He generally plays Fender guitars, especially Telecasters and Stratocasters. Fender also makes two signature Robert Cray Stratocaster models. He records for Robert Cray Music.

Later career

Cray continues to record and tour with the Robert Cray Band and as a solo artist.