Robert Cray, a true icon spanning blues, soul, and rock, began his musical journey after being inspired by The Beatles and Jimi Hendrix. From his early days forming a garage band to sharing stages with legends like Albert Collins at his high school graduation, Cray's half-century in music has been marked by unwavering commitment. Despite early struggles with record deals, including his debut album's delayed release and his label's bankruptcy, Cray persevered, driven by a singular dedication to his craft. This integrity has earned him five Grammy Awards, induction into the Blues Hall of Fame, and the respect of countless musical luminaries.

Cray's rise, much like his music, was a slow burn. After gaining local hero status and even appearing in the film Animal House, his 1983 album Bad Influence established him internationally. His standing grew with False Accusations and the acclaimed collaboration Showdown! with Albert Collins and Johnny Copeland. However, it was 1986's Strong Persuader that catapulted him to superstardom, making him the first blues/soul artist to break through in the MTV era. This album's success not only brought him global recognition, a Rolling Stone cover, and a Grammy, but also paved the way for other blues and soul artists, including John Lee Hooker's career resurgence.

Throughout his illustrious career, Robert Cray has collaborated with a who's who of music, from Muddy Waters and B.B. King to The Rolling Stones and Eric Clapton. His unique blend of stinging guitar and soulful vocals, coupled with his exceptional band-leading skills, cements his legacy as a keeper of the American roots music flame. His recent albums, including the masterful That's What I Heard, demonstrate his continued artistic growth and unwavering commitment to making deeply felt, distinctive music. With 19 studio albums and five Grammys, Cray remains as fresh and dedicated as ever, simply fortunate to be doing what he loves.