Chris Murray is a unique force on today's music scene. A gifted
songwriter and dynamic performer, he has captivated audiences
throughout the US, Europe, South America, Japan, Mexico and Canada with
his embracing music, penetrating lyrics and soulful presence. From the
prestigious Fuji Rock Festival to poverty stricken Oaxaca, Chris
delivers his message of hope and humanity with a raw sincerity that
connects with the hearts and minds of all.
Born in Toronto, Chris formed influential Canadian group King Apparatus
in 1987 and toured North America at a time when ska was virtually
unknown to mainstream audiences. Upon the band's breakup, he relocated
to Los Angeles, emerging as a solo artist with his debut album The
4-Track Adventures Of Venice Shoreline Chris. This and subsequent
releases have forged Chris' reputation as ska music's premier
singer/songwriter.
Life has led Chris down a musical path to the very roots of reggae
music. From trading songs on acoustic guitar with the late boogie-ska
pioneer Laurel Aitken and performing with Jamaican music legend Prince
Buster, to jamming with The Specials in a basement club and recording
with Jamaica's original drums and bass masters, Lloyd Knibb and Lloyd
Brevett, Chris has served his apprenticeship with the finest musicians
connected with the genre.
As host of Bluebeat Lounge, his long running residency at Knitting
Factory in Hollywood, Chris has presented more than 200 concerts over
the past four years and provides strong leadership to LA's thriving ska
community.
Additionally, Chris finds time for a remarkable array of collaborative
efforts, co-writing with and producing for many highly respected
artists. As well as producing three albums for Montreal's Planet
Smashers, his writing credits have appeared on releases by Hepcat, The
Slackers, Neville Staple and Westbound Train. His soulful reggae
ballad, Let There Be Peace, was featured on the recent Give Em The Boot
IV compilation (Hellcat/Epitaph).