The 10 best songs of the Robert Cray Band of all time

The Robert Cray Band, led by acclaimed blues guitarist and singer Robert Cray, has been a cornerstone of modern blues since its formation in the late 1970s. Known for their smooth blend of blues, soul and R&B, the band rose to critical acclaim with the release of Strong Persuader in 1986, including hits such as “Smoking Gun” and “Right Next Door (Because of Me).” Cray’s soulful voice and masterful guitar work, combined with the band’s tight, expressive musicianship, have earned them five Grammy Awards and a loyal following. Their music remains popular, blending classic blues traditions with contemporary influences.

1. Consequences

“Consequences” by the Robert Cray Band is a soulful song that deals with the consequences of choices made in love. Featuring Cray’s signature bluesy guitar riffs and emotive vocals, the song tackles themes of regret and acceptance. Its gentle melody and poignant lyrics reflect the consequences of actions in relationships, both intended and unintended. Cray’s expressive delivery captures the complexity of emotions, from longing to introspection, making “Consequences” a heartfelt exploration of the human experience through the lens of love and its effects.

2. The prognosis (requires pain)

“The Forecast (Calls for Pain)” is a song by the Robert Cray Band, featured on their 1990 album Midnight Stroll. Known for its bluesy and soulful style, the song deals with themes of heartbreak and emotional turmoil. Robert Cray’s distinctive guitar playing and soulful vocals convey the raw emotions of the lyrics, exploring the pain and challenges of relationships. The track showcases Cray’s ability to blend traditional blues with contemporary elements, creating a powerful and moving musical experience that will resonate with listeners drawn to soulful, self-critical music.

3. Right next door (because of me)

“Right Next Door (Because of Me)” is a classic blues song by the Robert Cray Band, released on their 1986 album “Strong Persuader”. The song tells a poignant story of love, temptation and regret. Robert Cray’s soulful vocals and expressive guitar playing capture the emotions of a man who becomes entangled in an affair with his neighbor’s wife. The lyrics reveal the guilt and conflict he feels as he ponders the consequences of his actions. “Right Next Door (Because of Me)” became one of the band’s signature songs, showcasing their ability to combine blues traditions with modern sensibility and finding widespread acclaim with audiences worldwide.

4. Don’t be afraid of the dark

“Don’t Be Afraid of The Dark” is a famous song by the Robert Cray Band, known for its infectious rhythm and Cray’s soulful vocals. Released in 1988, the song seamlessly blends blues and soul, with catchy guitar riffs and an encouraging message. The lyrics speak of facing challenges with resilience and finding strength in difficult times. The song’s fast tempo and Cray’s emotional delivery make it a standout piece in his repertoire, showcasing his ability to blend traditional blues with contemporary sensibility. “Don’t Be Afraid of The Dark” remains a classic example of Cray’s musicianship and enduring appeal.

5. Smoking gun

“Smoking Gun” is a signature song by the Robert Cray Band, released in 1986. It is a dark blues track with a driving rhythm and Cray’s distinctive guitar playing. The lyrics tell a story of mistrust and betrayal in a relationship where the protagonist is confronted with evidence of infidelity (“Your own eyes will tell you lies”). Cray’s soulful vocals and the song’s tight instrumentation create a compelling narrative that mixes blues with a hint of rock influence. “Smoking Gun” became a major hit for Cray, showcasing his ability to capture raw emotion and story within the framework of modern blues music.

6. How to act

“Acting This Way” is a song by the Robert Cray Band from their album “Midnight Stroll”, released in 1990. It is a soulful and introspective song that reflects on relationship dynamics and personal growth. Cray’s smooth vocals and expressive guitar playing characterize the song, with lyrics that deal with themes of love, self-reflection, and the complexity of human behavior. “Acting This Way” showcases Cray’s ability to blend blues, soul, and rock influences into a cohesive and emotionally stirring piece, making it a standout in his discography.

7. She’s gone

“She’s Gone” is a soulful blues ballad by the Robert Cray Band, featured on their 1985 album False Accusations. The song deals with themes of heartbreak and loss, with Robert Cray’s soulful vocals and emotive guitar playing providing a poignant narrative. The lyrics tell the story of a man wrestling with the pain of losing his loved one, reflecting on memories and the emptiness left behind. “She’s Gone” showcases Cray’s ability to evoke deep emotion with his music, combining traditional blues elements with a contemporary sound that will resonate with listeners drawn to soulful storytelling and heartfelt musical expression.

8. Will you think of me?

“Will You Think of Me” is a soulful ballad by the Robert Cray Band, known for its heartfelt lyrics and soulful melody. Released on the 1990 album Midnight Stroll, the song showcases Cray’s smooth vocals and ability to blend blues with soulful R&B elements. The lyrics explore themes of longing and memories, with Cray wondering if his presence will linger in the mind of a former lover. With its striking guitar solos and poignant storytelling, “Will You Think of Me” exemplifies Cray’s ability to capture deep emotions with his music.

9. Bad influence

“Bad Influence” is a blues rock song by the Robert Cray Band, featured on their 1983 album of the same name. The song deals with the consequences of getting into a troubled relationship or situation where negative influences abound. Robert Cray’s smooth vocals and sharp guitar work convey the frustration and introspection of a person wrestling with the impact of their choices. “Bad Influence” showcases Cray’s talent for blending traditional blues with a modern twist, and highlights his ability to create compelling narratives within the blues rock genre. The song’s themes of temptation and personal struggle resonate with audiences seeking authentic, emotionally charged music.

10. Time makes two

“Time Makes Two” is a soulful blues ballad by the Robert Cray Band, featured on their 2005 album, Twenty. The song deals with themes of heartbreak and longing, with Robert Cray’s smooth vocals and expressive guitar playing capturing the emotional depth of the lyrics. “Time Makes Two” delves into the complexities of relationships, reflecting on how time can both heal wounds and deepen longing for a lost love. The song showcases Cray’s mature songwriting and ability to blend blues, soul, and contemporary elements into a poignant musical expression that will resonate with listeners seeking introspective and poignant music.

Edward Tomlin is a frequent collaborator with Singers Room. Since 2005, Singersroom has been the voice of R&B around the world. Connect with us on social media below.