 When The Kats big record deal fizzled terribly, McRae took offers to be a "guitar-slinger for hire", and seemed to be on track for a successful session career.In fact, prior to joining The Kats, he had some national exposure touring and recording with Cory Wells, from Three Dog Night.In 1982, disenchanted by what seemed like 'type-casting' in the work he was getting, McRae sought training and artistic growth in the Music Department at USC.