Entertainment is Alive in Van Wert

by Quincy Thompson 

Van Wert, OH – Van Wert LIVE is proud to present The Robert Cray Band in concert at the Niswonger on Saturday, March 21, 2026. This unforgettable evening of blues, soul, and American roots music will showcase one of the most accomplished and influential musicians of the past half century. Tickets are on sale now at vanwertlive.com, by phone, or in person at the Box Office. 

Presenting Sponsor Tekni-Plex shares-

” We are thrilled to be able to continue to support Van Wert Live.  Thank you for your efforts in providing diverse entertainment for our Van Wert community!”

…states Rachel Brown, HR Manager and Representative of Tekni-Plex.

Robert Cray

A true American original, Robert Cray stands as a blues icon, soul man, and rock and roller whose artistry defies easy categorization. Born in Georgia and raised in Washington State, Cray picked up a guitar after seeing The Beatles on television. That early spark grew into a calling when he witnessed Jimi Hendrix perform in Seattle, inspiring him to follow a similar musical path and ultimately shaping the extraordinary career that has followed.

Reflecting on his early years, Cray recalls-

“I guess you’d have to say that we were lucky, because, growing up in the 1960s, the different music played on the radio really opened us up. I mean, we even had Albert Collins play our high school graduation party.”

From forming a teenage garage band to performing alongside many of the world’s most legendary artists, Robert Cray’s journey has been defined by perseverance, integrity, and a deep commitment to making music at the highest level. Over the course of five decades, he has sold millions of albums and concert tickets, won five Grammy Awards, been inducted into the Blues Hall of Fame, received the Americana Music Lifetime Achievement Award, and even designed two signature Fender guitars. Through it all, Cray has remained guided by an unwavering dedication to the craft—every note he plays is intentional, and every song he sings carries the emotion and sincerity that have earned him both critical acclaim and a loyal international audience.

Cray’s impact on American roots music is further underscored by the remarkable artists with whom he has shared the stage or studio. His collaborators include John Lee Hooker, Muddy Waters, B.B. King, Buddy Guy, Chuck Berry, Albert Collins, The Rolling Stones, Eric Clapton, Tina Turner, Stevie Ray Vaughan, the Memphis Horns, and Hi Rhythm Section, among many others. His distinctive guitar style, soulful voice, and compelling stage presence continue to position him as one of the genre’s most respected and enduring figures. The audience can expect a powerful, emotionally charged performance from a musician whose integrity and intensity have set the standard in American music for nearly 50 years. 

For more information and to purchase tickets to any upcoming Niswonger events, visit the Box Office from Tuesday through Friday, 10 AM to 3 PM, call us at 419-238-6722, or get your tickets 24/7 at vanwertlive.com.