A standout track from Stevie Ray Vaughan and Double Trouble’s acclaimed 1984 album Couldn't Stand the Weather, "Cold Shot" became one of SRV's signature songs. This smooth Electric Blues number, originally written by Michael Kindred/W.C. Clark, exemplifies Vaughan’s clean Stratocaster tone and deep understanding of Blues Rock traditions within its slow, funky groove, contrasting with his more fiery instrumentals.

Driven by its unforgettable opening guitar riff and the impeccable tight groove of Double Trouble (bassist Tommy Shannon and drummer Chris Layton), "Cold Shot" has a cool, laid-back surface that belies its lyrics of heartache and confusion. A staple of blues and classic rock radio, the song remains one of Stevie Ray Vaughan’s most popular and instantly identifiable tracks.

SONG MEANING: "Cold Shot" expresses the pain and confusion of experiencing sudden emotional coldness and distance from a romantic partner. The lyrics lament this abrupt shift in affection ("That's a cold shot, baby / Yeah, that's a mean old dirty shame"), describing the love turning frigid ("Our love is like a chunk of ice") and questioning the reason behind the partner's unexpected detachment ("What makes you so cold?").

Released on Stevie Ray Vaughan and Double Trouble's groundbreaking 1983 debut album Texas Flood, "Pride and Joy" immediately established SRV as a towering figure in electric blues. This self-penned blues-rock classic perfectly embodies the driving Texas shuffle rhythm that became his trademark. Its raw power, passionate vocals, and explosive guitar mastery made it an instant signature song and a highlight of the album.

Issued as the lead single around May 29, 1983, "Pride and Joy" introduced Stevie Ray Vaughan's electrifying blues-rock sound to a global audience, earning critical acclaim and significant airplay. Built upon an infectious shuffle rhythm and showcasing SRV's virtuosic guitar technique—effortlessly blending rhythm and lead playing—this track became a defining moment in the 1980s blues revival.

SONG MEANING: "Pride and Joy" is a pure, unabashed expression of love and devotion towards a romantic partner. Stevie Ray Vaughan wrote it for his then-girlfriend (later wife), Lenora "Lenny" Bailey. The lyrics celebrate her importance in his life, referring to her as his "pride and joy" and "sweet little baby," conveying deep affection and happiness within the relationship.

Released in 1989 on Stevie Ray Vaughan and Double Trouble’s triumphant album In Step, "Crossfire" marked a commercial and critical peak in SRV's career. Penned primarily by his bandmates and collaborators, this electric blues and blues-rock hit became Vaughan's only number-one single on the Billboard Mainstream Rock chart. Its driving rhythm and potent energy captured his revitalized spirit and musical power.

Issued as the lead single around June 13, 1989, "Crossfire" grabbed listeners with Tommy Shannon's iconic bassline and Stevie Ray Vaughan's characteristically blistering guitar solo. This blues-rock track delves into themes of societal struggle and feeling trapped by circumstances ("Caught up in the crossfire"). Its combination of socially conscious lyrics and electrifying electric blues musicianship made it a standout hit.

SONG MEANING: "Crossfire" addresses the feeling of being caught in the middle of overwhelming societal problems – poverty, violence, and economic hardship. The lyrics paint a picture of everyday people struggling to survive ("Tooth and nail /.../ Save the family / Raise the children") while feeling trapped and helpless ("Caught up in the crossfire") against forces beyond their control.