Album Notes

Murray Ross came to Los Angeles in 1964 with his wife Geri and three young sons and started working for an art supply company. Soon he started his own company, World Supply, which they ran out of their house before opening their well known retail outlet in the Cahuenga Pass in Los Angeles.

Murray, as bassist and vocalist, performed at weddings and Bar Mitzvas, anywhere he could. He's got a dream. He's an artist. He's a real artist. Working by day in the art world, gigging at night with his band, "The Swinging Trio," Murray on bass and vocals, Barry Strommer on accordian and Don Mader on drums. According to Murray they "were terrific"!
In 1986 Murray at age 55 wanted to make a record. He put together his first record called "Many Moods of Murray Ross."
It is basically live with a trio featuring Mark Cranny, who played with Gino Vanelli, Jethro Tull, and the Mahavishnu Orchestra (drums), Paul Humphery (drums), Sam Most (sax and flute), Ron Anthony (guitar), John Knapp (piano-combo arrangements by John Knapp). 22 songs. Live. One take.
In 1991 "Murray Ross goes Hollywood" was released when Pat Longo, noted big band conductor, met Murray. The collaboration also brought in Lon Norman on trombone (who played with the Harry James Band). Rehearsal was limited and used many players of Sinatra's Band.
Murray can't read music so all his performances are straight from the head and "heart"!
There was an attempt to get Nelson Riddle arrangements for these songs but it became cost prohibitive. Incidently Linda Rondstadt recorded Nelson Riddle arrangements within a few months -- taking Murray's idea!
There was the Broadway record, "Murray Ross Goes Broadway" with the Pat Longo Orchestra. Murray says this is the most difficult record he had to do. The emotional range and story of the songs is challanging. "I am What I Am" is about a transexual and Murray had to "act this out" in the vocal department.
If you're wondering how Murray met Steve Allen, it's one of those wonderful Hollywood accidents. Check out the album "All About Steve".
"It's sensational! Every track is a gem. You've turned out what is probably the best vocal album of the year"
- the late great Steve Allen
"If you're looking for the real thing for the swing, in the land of the kings, look no further. This guy's it!"
-Art Leonard, Hollywood DownBeat

Murray is a high level optimist: "Always look up and don't give up. I want to make a new record. I've always been a musician despite any handicap I've had to endure. I will always be a singer and singing is really me at my core."
Get real, get satisfied, get Murray Ross.