Singer-songwriter and producer behind iconic soft rock hits like "Sailing" and "Ride Like the Wind", known for his smooth, soulful voice and laid-back California vibe.
Christopher Cross is a household name in the music industry, synonymous with soft rock and adult contemporary genres. He's the mastermind behind chart-topping hits like "Sailing" and "Arthur's Theme (Best That You Can Do)," which catapulted him to fame in the late 1970s and early 1980s.
Born Christopher Charles Geppert on May 3, 1951, in San Antonio, Texas, Cross grew up with a passion for music. He began playing the guitar at a young age and formed his first band, Flash, with friends Andy Salmon and Rob Meurer. The trio later changed their name to Christopher Cross and moved to Austin, where they honed their craft, playing covers and recording demo tracks.
In 1979, Warner Bros. signed Christopher Cross as a solo artist, and his self-titled debut album was released on December 20, 1979. The album spawned three top 20 hits on the Billboard Hot 100, including "Ride Like the Wind," "Never Be the Same," and the iconic "Sailing," which earned him three Grammy Awards in 1980.
Cross's debut album earned him a staggering five Grammy Awards, including Album of the Year, Record of the Year, and Best New Artist. He also won an Academy Award for Best Original Song for "Arthur's Theme (Best That You Can Do)" from the 1981 film Arthur.
Cross's music often blends elements of soft rock, folk, and jazz, with intricate guitar work and soothing vocals. His influences include famous guitarists like Eric Clapton and Jeff Beck, as well as singer-songwriters like James Taylor and Cat Stevens.
Cross has been married twice and has two children. He's also an avid yachtsman and has participated in various sailing regattas.
Some of Cross's notable works include:
Cross faced criticism for his perceived lack of touring and live performances, leading some to accuse him of being a "studio artist." However, he has since addressed these concerns by embarking on several tours and performing at various music festivals.
"I've always tried to make music that was true to myself, and I think that's what resonated with people." - Christopher Cross
Christopher Cross's music has had a lasting impact on the soft rock genre, influencing artists like Michael McDonald, Kenny Loggins, and Dan Fogelberg. His soulful voice and masterful guitar work have cemented his place as one of the most recognizable and beloved artists of the 1980s.
Cross's net worth is estimated to be around $10 million, largely due to his successful music career and touring revenue.
Cross has supported various charitable causes, including the Starkey Hearing Foundation, which provides hearing aids to those in need.
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