Don Murray (drummer)

Donald Ray Murray (November 8, 1945 – March 22, 1996) was an American drummer, best known for his work with the Turtles. After leaving the group, Murray played with Paul Williams's psychedelic folk group the Holy Mackerel. In the 1980s he went on to perform with the newly formed Surfaris.

Don Murray
Birth nameDonald Ray Murray
Born(1945-11-08)November 8, 1945
Glendale, California, U.S.
DiedMarch 22, 1996(1996-03-22) (aged 50)
GenresFolk rock, pop
Occupation(s)Drummer
InstrumentsDrums
Years active1965-19??
LabelsWhite Whale
Associated actsThe Turtles, The Holy Mackerel

Career

Murray grew up in Inglewood, California and started playing drums at the age of 15. He became popular playing high school dances with the band the Crossfires. A year later the Crossfires became the Turtles, but the band had troubles playing at most Southern California venues such as the Whiskey a Go Go and the Troubadour, because all members of the band were under 21.

As the band went from high school band "Don Murray And The Crossfires" to "The Turtles", after their first gig in NYC, Kaylan and other band members tossed Murray out of The Turtles saying "Don thought it was still his high school band".

In the 1970s Murray was an art director for Skateboarder magazine, and also for Hot Rod magazine. He became an animator for Hanna-Barbera.

Death

Murray was admitted to a hospital in January 1996 for ulcer surgery, and died three months later on March 22 from complications of the surgery aged 50.


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