Christopher Joseph Isaak born June 26, [ 2 ] [ 3 ] is an American singer, songwriter, guitarist and occasional actor. Noted for his reverb-laden rockabilly revivalist style and wide vocal range, he is popularly known for his breakthrough hit and signature song " Wicked Game "; as well as international hits such as "Blue Hotel", " Baby Did a Bad Bad Thing ", and " Somebody's Crying ".
With a career spanning four decades, Isaak has released 13 studio albums, toured extensively with his band Silvertone, and received numerous award nominations.
Isaak has associated with film director David Lynch , who has used his music in numerous films. Attending Amos Alonzo Stagg High School in Stockton, Isaak was class president all three years, student body president of his senior class, head of the all-male cheer squad, and the class of valedictorian. He subsequently attended a local college, San Joaquin Delta Community College , before transferring to the University of the Pacific , graduating with a bachelor's degree in English and communications arts in After graduating from college, Isaak put together his first band, Silvertone, a rockabilly group with James Calvin Wilsey guitar , Jamie Ayres bass , and John Silvers drums.
The name was borrowed from the guitar brand popularized in the s. The group remained with Isaak as his permanent backing band. In , Isaak signed a contract with Warner Bros. Records and released his first album, Silvertone , [ 3 ] to critical acclaim, including from John Fogerty. The album's sound was raw and diverse, mingling country blues with conventional folk ballads. Isaak's self-titled follow-up album was released in and reached the Billboard Warner Bros.
Isaak's best known song is " Wicked Game ". Chesnut spread the word to other radio stations and the single became a national top 10 hit in February , peaking at number 6. Another less-seen version of "Wicked Game" is directed by David Lynch and comprises scenes from the film Wild at Heart. In , Isaak split with longtime guitarist James Calvin Wilsey. That year he released Forever Blue , Isaak's fifth album, and the accompanying tour featured Hershel Yatovitz on guitar.
