Dobie Gray was an American singer and songwriter whose musical career spanned soul, country, and pop genres. His most significant work, "Drift Away" (1973), is considered a landmark in soft rock and has been covered by numerous artists, demonstrating his wide-ranging influence on popular music. Gray's distinctive blend of genres and his emotionally resonant voice helped him maintain a consistent presence in the music industry from the 1960s through the 2000s. Despite his broad career, he remained best known for his soulful ballads and smooth vocal style.