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Robert CrayJazzman
Date of Birth: 01.08.1953
Country:  USA |
Content:
Robert Cray - A Biography
Robert Cray is an American popular blues singer, guitarist, and four-time Grammy Award winner in the blues category. He is also a multiple recipient of the prestigious W.C. Handy Blues Award. Cray was born on August 1, 1953, in Columbus, Georgia, into a military family. He began learning to play the piano in his childhood and was heavily influenced by the recordings of Ray Charles, Sam Cooke, and other soul artists.
Early Career
In the late 1960s, Cray started playing guitar in rock bands, primarily influenced by groups like The Beatles. However, after a personal meeting with Albert Collins, he developed an interest in playing the blues. In 1974, Cray formed his own band with bassist Richard Cousins. Two years later, he recorded his debut album for the Tomato label, which was released in 1978.
Recognition and Success
Cray's next two albums, recorded for different labels, showcased his style of blues with elements of soul and mainstream pop music. Although they went unnoticed at the time, these albums would eventually bring him popularity. In 1983, his album "Showdawn," a collaboration with Albert Collins and Johnny Copeland, became a major success and earned Cray a Grammy Award. The album sold over one million copies.
Continued Success
Cray's subsequent solo album, released on a major label, also achieved success, with several songs charting. His song "Telephone Booth" was covered by Albert Collins and blues legend Albert King, while Eric Clapton recorded a version of his song "Bad Influence" and invited Cray to participate in his London concerts and 1987 tour.
Further Achievements
In addition to his musical career, Cray appeared in the film "Hail! Hail! Rock 'n' Roll," which celebrated Chuck Berry's anniversary. This further solidified Cray's status as a prominent figure in blues and rock music. His subsequent albums achieved platinum status. Cray continues to actively tour and release albums every one and a half years or even more frequently. He remains a vital participant in various projects, including collaborations with John Lee Hooker in the 1990s, B.B. King's "Blues Summit," Eric Clapton's "24 Nights," and a Tribute to Stevie Ray Vaughan.
