Born in Detroit, Michigan on February 22, 1955, Dave McMurray is a jazz saxophonist, composer, and bandleader known both for his solo recordings as well as his prolific work as a session man. He began playing saxophone when he was young, honing his skills while playing live and attending workshops. In 1972, he joined avant-garde jazz outfit Griot Galaxy, and continued to master his instrument. Dave McMurray gained even more experience when he was hired to play in blues guitarist Albert King’s live band. In 1981, he played on recording sessions by Griot Galaxy and new Detroit-based outfit Was (Not Was). Throughout his career, he continued to work with Was (Not Was), a band founded by producers/musicians Don Was and David Was. Those sessions led to even more work as a sideman, recording with artists such as Geri Allen, Millie Scott, Bootsy Collins, Floy Joy, David Lasley, R.J.’s Latest Arrival, Mitch Ryder, Helen Terry, and others. Dave McMurray released The Secret Life, his first album as a leader, in 1989. Further solo releases include The Show (1996), Soul Searching (2001), Nu Life Stories (2003), and Music Is Life (2018). He has continued his session work, appearing on albums by The B-52s, Bob Dylan, Bob James, Kid Rock, The Rolling Stones, Brian Wilson, B.B. King, The Temptations, Iggy Pop, and many others.
