Bio
Chris Crain is a multi-talented musician whose sound blends Soul, Jazz, R&B, and a touch of Blues into a style all his own. A gifted vocalist, pianist, songwriter, and producer, Chris has collaborated with a range of notable artists, including Grammy Award-winning vocalist and arranger Mark Kibble (Take 6), Marva King, Roger Ryan, Frank McComb, Eric Roberson, Anthony Crawford, and many others. He has also shared the stage with renowned artists such as Calvin Richardson, Anthony Hamilton, Dave Hollister, Life Jennings, Raul Midón, Norman Brown, Baby Drew, Lord Yancy, Bobby Rush, and more, showcasing his versatility and respect across multiple genres.
Born in Mississippi and now based in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, Chris draws from a wide spectrum of musical traditions—from Gospel and Funk to Jazz, Blues, and Country. His artistry is rooted in storytelling, weaving heartfelt melodies and honest lyrics that speak to perseverance, identity, and hope.
Chris cites his top musical influences as Take 6 (Mark Kibble), Herbie Hancock, Sam Cooke, James Taylor, and Stevie Wonder—artists whose innovation, soul, and resilience continue to shape his sound. In fact, Chris considers his collaboration with Mark Kibble on his song Better a highlight of his musical journey.
His personal story is just as powerful as his music. Born with Brachial Plexus Palsy, Chris has transformed what some view as a limitation into a lifelong mission to uplift others. In 2011, he founded The Better Project Awareness Inc., a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization created to raise awareness about the birth injury Brachial Plexus Palsy and to promote positive self-image among children and adults from all walks of life who may face physical, mental, or cultural challenges.
Through music and live performance as its primary platform, the foundation delivers a clear and consistent message of HOPE, PERSEVERANCE, LOVE, and SELF-WORTH. As an added layer of impact, the organization incorporates mental health strategies and principles to support emotional healing and personal growth. The Better Project Awareness Inc. carries out its mission through multiple outreach programs that operate individually while working collectively toward creating positive change—using music as the vehicle for transformation.
Chris’s music continues to reflect this mission. His single Stay with Eric Roberson showcased his versatility, while They Say—an anthem born out of his work with youth and his own personal struggle—has been translated into 16 languages, with a goal of reaching 25. The song resonates deeply with anyone who has ever felt marginalized or silenced, offering encouragement to rise above adversity.
Beyond the stage and studio, Chris’s creative reach extends into film and television. He has produced music for the movie Civilian Life and for reality television including Bravo’s The Real Housewives of Orange County, further expanding his influence across multiple entertainment platforms.
Most recently, after three years of work, Chris released his highly anticipated album Dreams on June 2, 2025. The 13-track project includes the title song “Dreams,” featuring acclaimed jazz artist Frank McComb, and further solidifies Chris’s reputation as a forward-thinking musician with a timeless soul.
When not performing or recording, Chris lives in Milwaukee with his wife and two children, mentoring youth through free music and arts camps. Whether on stage, in the studio, or in the community, Chris Crain is more than a musician—he is a storyteller, an innovator, and a beacon of hope whose music inspires, uplifts, and transforms.
