Robert Cray's recording career includes 16 releases along with several legendary collaborations with other artists. Here are the "must have" Robert Cray recordings.
1. Strong Persuader
This was Robert Cray's home run. His first major label release features great songwriting, distinctive playing, and the Memphis Horns. The record spawned several hits like: Smoking Gun , I Guess I Showed Her , Nothin' But A Woman , and Right Next Door (Because Of Me) . Along with Stevie Ray Vaughan, Cray became the Blues' top representative with this release. He sets the standard for his subsequent recordings.
2. Showdown!
Robert Cray has caught some undeserved flack for a less-than-Bluesy sound over the years, but one listen to this face-off with Blues guitar masters Albert Collins and Johnny "Clyde" Copeland you'll hear some of the hottest Blues pickin' ever recorded. This record convinced many fans that Cray was a true Bluesman.
3. Don't Be Afraid of the Dark
This record continues the path that Strong Persuader forged with strong songwriting and dishearteningly soulful vocals. By the time of this release, Cray had become known for his she-done-me-wrong themes and cuts like Don't You Even Care and I Can't Go Home continue black cloud party. His Memphis-like sound become entrenched in the public's ears.4. Time Will Tell
Cray gets out of the box on this 2003 release. While some don't appreciate the departure from more traditional Blues formats, somebody needs to explore the Blues new possibilities and Cray has the chops and voice to be the conquistador. Lotta Lovin' and Time Makes Two capture the essence of old school and put it in Cray's distinctive light.5. The Robert Cray Band Collection
Robert Cray has a unique recording career and this compilation is the ultimate map to his recordings. While other artists try to define their genres, Cray seems to want to defy his with crossover grooves and the Bluesy-est non-Blues you'll ever hear. Innovators are always ridiculed.