mark murphy

Mark Murphy: The Jazz Crooner Who Sang the Blues

Mark Murphy, known as “The King of the Ballad,” reigned supreme in the world of jazz vocalists for over half a century. Born in 1932, he emerged from the fertile ground of the bebop era, blending the improvisational freedom of jazz with the soulful warmth of pop balladry.

From Broadway to the Blue Note

Murphy’s career started with the vibrant energy of Broadway. He landed a role in the musical “Guys and Dolls” and even had a brief stint on “The Ed Sullivan Show.” While he found some success, his real passion was in jazz. He honed his skills with legends like Gerry Mulligan and Oscar Peterson, becoming a fixture in the New York jazz scene.

The “Murphy Touch”

Murphy’s signature style was his mastery of scat singing – the art of improvising vocal lines inspired by instrumental solos. He was a master of lyrical interpretation, bringing a unique sensitivity to the music, and infusing every song with a touch of his own personal story.

A Vocal Virtuoso

Murphy was a prolific recording artist, releasing over 30 albums. His rendition of “The Shadow of Your Smile” became a jazz standard, and his soulful interpretation of “I’m Old Fashioned” is a classic.

Funny Facts about Mark Murphy and his Friends:

• The Scat Master: Murphy famously once said, “You don’t have to be a jazz musician to appreciate scat, you just have to know what a shower sounds like.”
• A True Jazz Fan: Murphy was a huge fan of the legendary pianist Oscar Peterson. Legend has it that Murphy would sometimes get so engrossed in Peterson’s playing that he’d forget to sing his own parts during their gigs!
• A Bit of a Daredevil: One night, during a gig with a friend, Murphy was feeling a little extra bold. He challenged his friend to a “scat-off” – a spontaneous battle of improvised vocal lines. The friend, overwhelmed by Murphy’s incredible improvisational skills, simply gave up after a few minutes!

Mark Murphy’s influence continues to inspire a new generation of jazz vocalists. His music remains a testament to the power of jazz, a genre where soulful voices and skillful improvisation create a unique and unforgettable experience.