Smoking Gun

Zoo Freaks, get ready for some righteous vibes as we spin "Smoking Gun" by Robert Cray from his killer album Strong Persuader here at THE ZOO! This track, released in 1986, was a game-changer, hitting No. 2 on the Billboard Album Rock Tracks chart and No. 22 on the Hot 100. Its infectious groove and sharp storytelling about infidelity hooked listeners, earning Cray a nomination for the 1987 MTV Video Music Award for Best New Artist in a Video. The song’s up-tempo rhythm, as noted by AllMusic’s Ed Hogan, gave it a fresh, airy feel while staying true to blues roots, practically kickstarting the modern blues era. Fun fact: the music video, directed by Peter Care, brought Cray’s soulful energy to life, featuring the whole Robert Cray Band jamming with serious style.

Dig this—Strong Persuader was such a massive hit that it sold over two million copies by 1995, and "Smoking Gun" was the spark that lit the fuse. In a throwback interview with Jam Magazine, Cray shared how the album’s success blew him away, opening doors to gigs with legends like Tina Turner, who personally asked him to open her European shows, and Eric Clapton, who had him on the first leg of his U.S. tour. Even Keith Richards was so vibed by Cray’s playing that he recruited him for Chuck Berry’s backup band in the 1987 film Hail! Hail! Rock ‘n’ Roll. Cray reflected, “It’s amazing what that one album did for my career,” noting how it pulled him out of obscurity and into the spotlight. Fans on Reddit still rave about the album, with one Zoo Freak-like post calling out "Smoking Gun" and tracks like "Right Next Door" as must-listens, especially live, where Cray’s raw emotion shines.

Now, let’s rewind to how Robert Cray got his start. Born on August 1, 1953, in Columbus, Georgia, Cray grew up in a military family, moving around before landing in Tacoma, Washington. His love for blues and soul sparked in his teens at Denbigh High School in Newport News, Virginia, where he formed his first band, The One-Way Street. By 20, after catching live shows from heroes like Albert Collins, Freddie King, and Muddy Waters, Cray was all in, forming the Robert Cray Band in Eugene, Oregon, in the late ’70s. They hustled through West Coast college towns, building a rep for electrifying performances. His 1980 debut album, Who’s Been Talkin’, laid the groundwork, but it was mid-’80s releases like Bad Influence and Showdown! with Albert Collins and Johnny Copeland that started turning heads. By the time Strong Persuader dropped, Cray’s smooth guitar licks and soulful voice had earned him five Grammy Awards and a spot in the Blues Hall of Fame in 2011.

Zoo Freaks, you can keep up with this blues legend at his official website, where you’ll find tour dates, merch, and more. Connect with him on Facebook, Instagram, and X for the latest updates and behind-the-scenes vibes. For those craving community, check out fan-driven spaces like the Robert Cray Fans Facebook group, where devotees share stories, clips, and love for his music. There’s also buzz on fan sites like Joe Bonamassa’s blog, which dives into Cray’s soulful impact. So, crank up "Smoking Gun," feel those bluesy grooves, and let’s keep the Zoo Crew party rolling!