Robert Cray Article Index for
Robert
Website Links For
Robert
 

Information About

Robert Cray




  Img RobertCrayjpg
  Img Capt Robert Cray in concert, 2007
  Born August 1, 1953 in Columbus, Georgia
  Genre Contemporary Blues <br> Electric Blues <br> Soul-blues
  Notable Instruments Robert Cray Signature Model Stratocaster
  Years Active 1980 - present
  URL Official Site


Robert Cray (born 1 August , 1953 , in Columbus , Georgia ) is a Blues musician, Guitarist and Singer .


CAREER

Robert Cray was among artists such as , Freddie King and Muddy Waters in concert, and decided to form his own band. His band started playing college towns on the west coast. After several years of regional success, Cray was signed to Mercury Records in 1982 . His third release, '' Strong Persuader '', received a Grammy Award , while the crossover single "Smokin' Gun" gave him wider appeal and name recognition.

By now, Cray was an opening act for major stars, such as Eric Clapton (who remains a loyal friend to this day), and sold out larger venues as a solo artist. By the early 1990s his name was immediately associated with his soothing, soulful voice, crisp, clean guitar work, and innovative modern blues sound. Cray has generally played Fender guitars ( Telecaster s and Stratocaster s) and there are two signature model Robert Cray Stratocasters available from Fender. The Robert Cray Custom Shop Stratocaster is made in the U.S. in the Fender Custom Shop and is identical to the guitars that Cray currently plays, while the Robert Cray Standard Stratocaster is a less-expensive version made in Fender's Ensenada , Mexico plant.

Cray also had the opportunity to play alongside John Lee Hooker , on his album ''Boom Boom''. Cray plays the guitar solo in the song "Same Old Blues Again".
He also feaures on the critically acclaimed album, '' The Healer '', another recording from John Lee Hooker. Cray plays a guitar solo on the song "Baby Lee".

He continues to record and tour. Cray appeared multiple times on Eric Clapton's Crossroads Guitar Festival , and is currently supporting 'Slowhand' on his 2006-2007 world tour.

Also, in the Film '' Animal House '', Cray plays the uncredited bassist in Otis Day And The Knights .


ROBERT CRAY BAND

Robert Cray's current band line-up:


DISCOGRAPHY


Compilations and re-issues

  • ''Who's Been Talkin''' re-issue - 2001

  • ''Heavy Picks - The Robert Cray Band Collection'' - 1999

  • ''The Best Of Robert Cray edition of 20th Century Masters / The Millennium Collection'' - 2002



REFERENCES

  • Guinness Book of British Hit Albums - 7th Edition - ISBN 0-85112-619-7

  • Guinness Rockopedia - ISBN 0-85112-072-5

  • The Great Rock Discography - 5th Edition - ISBN 1-84195-017-3

  • The Blues - From Robert Johnson to Robert Cray - ISBN 1-85868-255-X



SEE ALSO



EXTERNAL LINKS