Robert Cray Band Tickets

Robert Cray Band - The Producers Of Some Of The Most Influential Blues Music

The Robert Cray Band has been a popular and influential force in blues music for decades. Formed in 1974 in Eugene, Oregon, the band has crafted some of the most iconic blues tunes. Frontman Robert Cray is renowned as one of the most innovative guitarists and songwriters of the blues rock genre.

Band Origin and History

Robert Cray began playing gigs and performing solo at the age of 14, establishing himself as a skilled guitarist and singer. In 1974, old friends** Richard Cousins**, Darrell Leonard, and Jim Pugh reached out to him to form the Robert Cray Band. The band would release several albums together while touring the local scene.

In 1977, the band was profiled on the PBS show Soundstage and caught the attention of rock writer Peter Guralnick, who brought the group to the attention of music producer Bruce Bromberg. In 1980, the group released their first album, Who's Been Talkin', on HighTone Records.

Band Members and Chronology

The original line-up of Robert Cray on lead vocals, guitar, Richard Cousins on bass, Darrell Leonard on trumpet and Jim Pugh on keyboards released three albums together before changes in the band's post-1983 albums. Roger Hawkins became the permanent drummer for the Robert Cray Band in 1983; he had previously played drums for Aretha Franklin and Wilson Pickett. In 1985, the band's long-time saxophonist Horn was replaced by Rickey Grissett. This line-up remained consistent until 1989, when Pugh left the band to pursue a career in Hollywood as a keyboard player and music producer. He was replaced by keyboardist Tom Canning in 1989.

Similar Artists and Influences

Robert Cray has cited B.B. King and Albert Collins among his musical influences. Other artists cited to have had a notable influence on the band include Stevie Ray Vaughan, Dr. Feelgood, Chuck Berry and Robert Johnson. On a modern note, the band's most recent material has been influenced by blues-rock acts such as The Black Keys and The White Stripes.

Famous Songs

Throughout their career, the Robert Cray Band has released a plethora of memorable songs. Some of the band's best-known songs include "Smoking Gun", "Right Next Door (Because of Me)", "I Guess I Showed Her", "The Forecast (Calls for Pain)" and "Bad Influence".

The Robert Cray Band continues to be one of the most influential blues-rock artists of all time. With an illustrious career spanning over four decades, the band has established an impressive catalog of music that still resonates with music fans to this day.