New Jersey's own Mike Murray, an independent composer/producer is (quoting one industry spokesman); "in a league by himself and clearly has re-defined the musical genres known as “Chill-Out” and “Smooth Jazz” by blending them masterfully". Mike calls his self-described musical genre "Chazz" but fans of Bob James/Fourplay, Hiroshima, and Jazzmasters will love MIke's expanding repertoire and musical horizons.
Mike began his musical journey in the late 70's during high school largely as a percussionist. His keen sense of rhythm is evidenced on all of his recordings. He also tinkered around with the piano during his teens and came to appreciate the sound but he lacked focus, discipline and formal training. Although he did perform with a couple of street bands during that time, Mike was completely unaware of the depth of his compositional talents until a few years after the death of his father in 2001. Over the years prior and largely unbeknownst to Mike, his father, had become an accomplished, self-taught organist. When he died, Mike purchased his own keyboard to help fill the void and to follow in his father's footsteps. For Mike, musical seeds planted 40 years prior had begun to sprout due to a life event.
Today the skillful song craftsman has 7 successful commercial releases and an established brand that catapults listeners through a captivating mix of Smooth Jazz and Chill-Out with world influences and luxurious grooves. "I believe everyone has the capacity to create on one level or another" Mike says. "I stumbled into my creative journey as the result of an unfortunate life event but I encourage everyone to continually seek out and discover their own creative gifts". Mike's, soon to be released, Journey CD is themed after the idea that for him, it really is all about "the journey" and personal growth with no clearly defined finish line although he says he would like to someday compose for or collaborate with labeled artists. In the meantime, Mike's Non-Stop CD title reflects his determination to continue the music journey. And so he has:
Mike's "Best of Times" from the upcoming Non-Stop CD has already made its mark by debuting at #28 on SmoothJazzNow.com's TOP 50 Chart for May 2013. Mike also just landed an endorsement deal with RedStilletoJazz.com on the heels of his upcoming "Journey" release. Both CD's should be on the market by the first of June 2013.