What is "christopher cross"?

Christopher Cross is an American singer-songwriter known for his smooth vocals, catchy melodies, and soft rock sound. He rose to fame in the late 1970s and early 1980s with hits like "Sailing," "Ride Like the Wind," and "Arthur's Theme (Best That You Can Do)." His self-titled debut album, released in 1979, was a massive success and earned him five Grammy Awards, including Album of the Year and Best New Artist.

Born Christopher Charles Geppert on May 3, 1951, in San Antonio, Texas, Cross began his musical career as a session musician and songwriter in the 1970s. He played in various bands and worked on jingles for commercials before landing a record deal with Warner Bros. Records in 1978. His debut album, "Christopher Cross," was a commercial and critical success, reaching number six on the Billboard 200 chart and spawning several hit singles.

One of the standout tracks from the album is "Sailing," a soft rock ballad that became Cross's signature song. The song won Grammy Awards for Record of the Year, Song of the Year, and Best Arrangement Accompanying Vocalist(s). Its smooth, breezy sound and heartfelt lyrics struck a chord with listeners and solidified Cross's reputation as a talented singer-songwriter.

Another hit from the album is "Ride Like the Wind," a more uptempo track featuring guest vocals from Michael McDonald of The Doobie Brothers. The song reached number two on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and showcased Cross's versatility as a musician. His ability to blend elements of pop, rock, and jazz into his music set him apart from other artists of the time and helped him stand out in a crowded music industry.

In 1981, Cross contributed the theme song "Arthur's Theme (Best That You Can Do)" to the film "Arthur," starring Dudley Moore and Liza Minnelli. The song, co-written with Burt Bacharach, Carole Bayer Sager, and Peter Allen, became a chart-topping hit and won an Academy Award for Best Original Song. Its smooth, sophisticated sound and memorable chorus made it a classic of the era and a highlight of Cross's discography.

Despite his early success, Cross struggled to maintain his commercial momentum in the years that followed. His subsequent albums, including "Another Page" (1983) and "Every Turn of the World" (1985), failed to match the chart success of his debut. However, he continued to release music and tour regularly, building a dedicated fan base that appreciated his distinctive sound and melodic songwriting.

In recent years, Christopher Cross has faced health challenges that have affected his ability to perform. In 2019, he revealed that he had been diagnosed with a rare neurological condition called Guillain-Barré syndrome, which left him temporarily paralyzed and unable to walk. Despite this setback, Cross has remained determined to continue making music and connecting with his fans.

In 2020, Cross released a new album titled "Take Me As I Am," featuring reimagined versions of his classic hits along with new material. The album showcases Cross's enduring talent as a musician and his ability to adapt his sound to fit the times while staying true to his musical roots. Tracks like "Ride Like the Wind 2020" and "Sailing 2020" demonstrate his timeless appeal and the lasting impact of his music on listeners of all ages.

Christopher Cross's influence on the music industry is undeniable, with his smooth vocals and melodic songwriting inspiring countless artists across genres. His ability to craft heartfelt, relatable songs that resonate with listeners has earned him a lasting place in the pantheon of soft rock and adult contemporary music. Despite the challenges he has faced in his career and personal life, Cross remains a beloved figure in the music world, cherished for his talent, authenticity, and enduring contributions to the art form.