Prodigal Son

Description

The subtle troubadour songwriter has become a true myth among his many fans. Writer or musician, electric or acoustic, New Yorker turned Parisian, he leaves his musical footprints around the world with sincerity and simplicity. When "Aquashow," Elliott Murphy's very first album, was released in November 1973, critics unanimously gave it a triumphant reception. Articles began to appear in prestigious newspapers such as Rolling Stone, Newsweek, The New Yorker... Radio and television hammered the point home, crowning Elliott as the new Dylan, the new Lou Reed, or the F. Scott Fitzgerald of Rock'n'roll. These comparisons are undoubtedly flattering, but they immerse our man in the usual and reductive game of comparisons that many newcomers know well. In fact, what Elliott Murphy was - and especially what he remains against all odds for over thirty-five years - can be described with a rich palette of adjectives, roles, and skills that command respect. Let's say it outright: MURPHY is above all this prolific artist, this inspired songwriter-guitarist, this charismatic singer, this tireless and authentic troubadour whose unique career of over thirty albums has brought him to us, without compromise or concern for easy seduction. And also, undoubtedly, the most French of USA "songwriters." His admirers in the music world are legion. We could mention Peter Buck (REM), The Violent Femmes, Paul Rothchild (the producer of the Doors), Lou Reed, Elvis Costello, and Bruce Springsteen. Among the prestigious musicians who have accompanied him, we remember some members of Talking Heads, the Velvet Underground, the Violent Femmes, as well as ex-Stone Mick Taylor, Chris Spedding, Phil Collins, Billy Joel, and Bruce Springsteen, who regularly invites him to share the stage during his European tours. Today, Elliott Murphy lives in Paris and continues to tour with his extraordinary guitarist Olivier Durand. Our musician is also a wordsmith. He has written a collection of short stories (Café Notes) and two novels (Poetic Justice & Marty May) published in several languages. He is also the one who wrote the liner notes for the now legendary "Live 69" by the Velvet Underground. Versatile, he was also seen in a small role in Fellini's Roma. Elliott Murphy's 36th album, Prodigal Song, will be released in May 2017.