The Robert Cray Band, already a West Coast favorite when "Bad Influence" was released in 1983, broke through to the national blues circuit on the strength of this fresh and original blend of blues and soul which launched Cray on his path to pop star status. The album was a revelation in its unique style and appeal and helped spark a rejuvenation in blues. The charismatic 30-year-old Cray teamed with the songwriting and production team of Bruce Bromberg and Dennis Walker to win W.C. Handy Blues Awards for album, single and song ("Phone Booth") of the year. Bromberg started HighTone Records to release the LP; HighTone became the quintessential Americana label over the years, and both he and Cray have been inducted into the Blues Hall of Fame. The hall’s selection of "Bad Influence" marks the third year in a row that a Cray album has been so honored, following "Strong Persuader" and "False Accusations."
