The Robert Cray Band with special guest Nic Clark

Kalamazoo State Theatre  

What To Know Before Attending The Show

• All bags and purses must be under 8″ x 5″ x 2″ – Click for more details

Doors: 6:00PM | Show: 7:00PM

Buy Tickets HERE

Witness a living legend live when the iconic The Robert Cray Band stops by the historic Kalamazoo State Theatre on Sunday, October 8, 2023, with special guest Nic Clark.

About The Robert Cray Band:

Since 1974, The Robert Cray Band has been touring and recording their unique groove, born from a love of Soul, R&B, Gospel, Blues and Rock n Roll.

The five-time Grammy winner has been inducted into the Blues Hall of Fame and earned the Americana Music Awards Lifetime Achievement for Performance.

“Having had the opportunity to play with some of our heroes was more than we could have ever imagined,” says Robert.  “Albert Collins, Muddy Waters, John Lee Hooker, and the big stages with The Rolling Stones, Tina Turner, and Eric Clapton.”

Cray’s producer Steve Jordan adds, “People gravitate to his guitar playing first, but I think he’s one of the best singers I’ve heard in my life.”

The Robert Cray Band has released over twenty acclaimed albums and has sold millions worldwide.  “The Band continues with the same enthusiasm and joy in what we do, and no matter the accolades,” says Robert.   “Today is all that matters!”

About Nic Clark:

Nic Clark, the Mexican-American musician behind the captivating studio album “Everybody’s Buddy,” possesses an uncanny ability to be a source of comfort and solace when life’s challenges loom large. Collaborating with guitar virtuoso Charlie Hunter in Greensboro, NC, the album is slated for release on Little Village (Release Date: June 16, 2023). Rooted in the everyday struggles of a Generation Z individual navigating insurmountable obstacles that resonate with most Americans, “Everybody’s Buddy” is a testament to Clark’s emotional transparency and human connection. Joined by Charlie Hunter (guitar/bass) and George Sluppick (drums), Clark crafts a tapestry of deep grooves, pop-infused melodies, and percussive rhythms. The album launch will be accompanied by special performances, including an appearance on eTown on April 30 and participation in the Waterfront Blues Festival during the July 4th weekend.

Clark’s journey through the recording process unveiled a powerful theme encapsulated by the track “Don’t Count Yourself Out.” From a young age, he confronted an ongoing battle with an eating disorder, a struggle that lingered through his teens and twenties when his weight reached over 400 pounds. Though deeply personal, Clark recognizes his experiences as reflective of the challenges many Americans face. His role as an Amazon warehouse worker is a testament to his determination to make ends meet while navigating the same hardships shared by countless others. Music emerges as his saving grace, offering an outlet to steer clear of trouble.

The stories woven into “Everybody’s Buddy” resonate across generations and musical boundaries. From relationship breakups and poignant advice-seeking to encounters with panic attacks and excessive black coffee consumption, Clark’s narratives paint a vivid picture of relatable life moments. The album begins with the Keb Mo-inspired “Laughing In The Rain,” setting a warm and inviting tone through Clark’s harmonica and dobro. As the album unfolds, Clark’s storytelling prowess continues to captivate.

Clark’s journey reached a crossroads in 2022 when financial constraints brought his travels to a halt, leading him to care for his uncle amidst his mourning for his mother. Coping with the profound loss of his grandma, he penned “It’ll Be Alright” as a means of catharsis. “Try To Understand,” the album’s lead single, was born from the aftermath of car accidents and carries a message of self-compassion. “Good Advice,” a cover of J.B. Lenoir’s work, pays homage to his late grandmother and his ongoing journey to overcome an eating disorder. The album unfolds as a dedication to friends who supported him, each song a testament to the importance of camaraderie.

As Clark continues to create and perform, he finds purpose in sharing his music with those in need. Through harmonica workshops and performances at hospitals, vaccination sites, and detention centers, he channels the healing power of music to offer hope and solace to others facing their own trials. Clark’s artistry is a living testament to the ability of music to uplift, inspire, and connect across borders and challenges.

General Ticket Information:

All seating is reserved for this all-ages event. There’s an 8-ticket limit for reserved seating. There is a 6-ticket limit for VIP. There is a 4-ticket limit for fan club.

• $35.00-$55.00 (Reserved Seating)
• $40.00-$60.00 (Day of Show)
• $125 (VIP Package)
  • Premium Concert Ticket
  • Exclusive T-Shirt
  • Autographed 8×10 Photo
  • Exclusive Guitar Pick Tin

Skip the line Ticket Information:

Why wait in the elements when you can skip the line?! This is a separate ticket that will grant you expedited entry into the venue. Skip The Line entry is located near the main entrance of the building. Look for VIP / Skip The Line signage or ask a staff member. Present your Skip The Line pass along with your event ticket for expedited entry and to avoid the public lines. THIS IS NOT AN EVENT TICKET.

Security Information:
All patrons are subject to search, pat down, and wanding.  The following items are not allowed in the venue: guns, knives, lasers, tasers, mace, glass items, cameras, selfie sticks, outside food or beverage, no bags over the dimensions of 8 inches wide by 5 inches tall with a width of 2 inches,  and other items that may challenge public safety.  You can view our full list by visiting our frequently asked questions here