It?s always interesting to see how some artists fly under the music radar.
Christopher Cross, who had major hits with his songs “Sailing” and “Think of Laura,” is one of those musicians. While many may be surprised to know that he has received five Grammy Awards, one Oscar and a Golden Globe Award, his loyal fan base attests to his talent.
“We are so excited to have Christopher Cross at Rams Head,” said Tara Dulaney of Rams Head Promotions. “The last time he played here he sold out both nights. ? We look forward to his return.”
Even Cross? press agents admit that when his name is mentioned to most people, they have a vague recollection of the guy who wrote the theme song for the 1981 movie “Arthur.” But it?s not until other Cross hits, such as “Ride Like the Wind,” are mentioned that they realize his music?s cultural impact.
But as quickly as Cross rose to fame in the 1980s, he seemed to disappear. After “Think of Laura,” which was used on the popular daytime soap opera “General Hospital” (during the popular “Luke and Laura” storyline), he never returned to the Top 40 again. His 1988 album “Back of My Mind” failed to chart. Cross was dropped by Warner. Five years later he released “Rendezvous” under the BMGlabel. He drew critical acclaim but never returned to the Top 40 again.
“Although it went ignored at the time, ?Rendezvous? was Christopher Cross? best album in 10 years,” wrote Stephen Thomas Erlewine of All Music Guide. “It wasn?t because he changed his style ? he remained an MOR [Middle of the Road] balladeer with a fondness for slick productions and sentimental melodies ? but there?s a little bit of an edge to his writing, and his songs are uniformly memorable.”
Cross seemed at ease with his achievements when he did a promotional interview with the company Elixir Strings.
“I was able to make more records and continue doing what I love to do. ?” he said. “For the most part, I hear my music in grocery stores and people do know who I am, and I continue to tour so it?s great.”
No doubt his fans think so, too.
IF YOU GO
Christopher Cross
» Venue: Rams Head On Stage, 33 West St., Annapolis
» Time: 8 p.m. Wednesday and Thursday
» Tickets: $46.50; 410-268-4545; www.ramsheadtavern.com
