Christopher Cross Biography

Short Summary

Christopher Cross is an American singer-songwriter who gained fame in the early 1980s. He is best known for his smooth, melodic pop hits such as "Sailing" and "Arthur's Theme (Best That You Can Do)." Cross's debut album was a commercial success, earning him several Grammy Awards. His contributions to music have made him a notable figure in the soft rock genre.

Early Life & Education

Born on May 3, 1951, in San Antonio, Texas, Christopher Cross was raised in a music-loving family. His father was a physician in the U.S. Army, which meant the family moved frequently. Cross developed an early interest in music and began playing guitar in his teenage years. Attending Alamo Heights High School, he formed his first band, Flash, which played cover songs at local venues. His early exposure to a variety of musical styles, including rock and folk, significantly influenced his later work.

Career Highlights

Christopher Cross's career took off in 1979 with the release of his self-titled debut album, which included chart-topping hits like "Sailing" and "Ride Like the Wind." The album's success was cemented at the 1981 Grammy Awards, where he won five awards, including Album of the Year. In 1981, Cross contributed "Arthur's Theme (Best That You Can Do)" for the film "Arthur," which won him an Academy Award for Best Original Song. His subsequent albums continued to showcase his distinctive soft rock style, maintaining his presence in the music industry for decades.

Major Achievements

Won five Grammy Awards in 1981, including Album of the Year and Song of the Year for "Sailing."
Received an Academy Award in 1982 for Best Original Song with "Arthur's Theme (Best That You Can Do)."
His debut album achieved multi-platinum status, selling over five million copies in the U.S.
Earned several Top 40 hits throughout the early 1980s, establishing him as a leading figure in soft rock.

Famous Quotes

"Sailing takes me away to where I've always heard it could be."
"The wind is strong and the sea is rough, but I'll get where I'm going."

Interesting Facts

Christopher Cross is the only artist to have won the "Big Four" Grammy Awards in a single year.
He performed with the band Deep Purple during a concert in the early 1970s.
His song "Sailing" is considered a defining track of the yacht rock genre.
Cross was a major influence on many contemporary artists, including John Mayer.

Legacy / Influence

Christopher Cross's impact on the music industry is significant, particularly in the soft rock and yacht rock genres. His smooth melodies and heartfelt lyrics have influenced many artists who followed in his footsteps. Despite changes in musical trends, his work continues to resonate with audiences, and his early achievements set a high bar for pop music excellence.