Following in the footsteps of fellow Austinite Stevie Ray Vaughan, Chris Duarte developed a muscular, colorful blend of blues, jazz, and rock that he showcased on Texas Sugar/Strat Magik, his 1994 debut for Silvertone. Texas Sugar/Strat Magik elevated Duarte into the top ranks among guitar aficionados, a reputation he'd continue to cultivate over the years through steady work on the road and studio. By 2003, he gave his supporting musicians equal billing, releasing Romp under the name the Chris Duarte Group. He returned with a solo effort, 2023's Ain't Giving Up.