Shirley Murdock's Debut Album: "As We Lay" & More | Listen Now!
Is there a voice that can simultaneously soothe the soul and ignite a fire within? Shirley Murdock's artistry, a tapestry woven from R&B, soul, and gospel threads, answers with a resounding yes. Her music transcends genres, touching hearts and leaving an indelible mark on the world.
Her self-titled debut album, released on February 18, 1986, was more than just a collection of songs; it was a statement. Emerging in the US in 1985, the album quickly achieved gold status, solidifying Murdock's place in the music industry. The record included the charting singles "Be Free," "As We Lay," and "Go On Without You," all of which showcased her vocal range and emotional depth. It was a launchpad, catapulting her onto the international stage. The album's enduring appeal is further highlighted by the inclusion of four extended mixes as bonus tracks, resulting in a total running time of 63 minutes and 40 seconds. It's a testament to the album's legacy that it was re-released on Soulmusic Records in the UK on CD on August 17, 2022.
| Full Name: | Shirley Murdock |
| Born: | May 22, 1957, in Dayton, Ohio, USA |
| Also Known As: | Shirley Murdock-DeGroat |
| Genres: | R&B, Soul, Gospel |
| Occupation: | Singer, Songwriter, Actress, Composer, Evangelist |
| Spouse: | Dale DeGroat (married June 18, 1988) |
| Hometown: | Toledo, Ohio |
| Career Highlights: |
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| Current Activities: | Evangelist at Solid Rock Church in Monroe, Ohio; Recording and performing gospel music; Acting in gospel plays |
| Notable Works: | "As We Lay," "Be Free," "Go On Without You," "Computer Love" (with Zapp and Roger) |
| Reference Website: | IMDb - Shirley Murdock |
Before the spotlight of her solo career, Shirley Murdock honed her craft singing gospel music in her native Toledo, Ohio. This foundation provided her with the vocal dexterity and emotional authenticity that would later become her signature. The transition from the church choir to the recording studio wasn't a sudden leap, but rather a steady climb, each step guided by her unwavering faith and undeniable talent.
It was Roger Troutman of the funk band Zapp who recognized the potential that lay within Murdock. He hired her as a background singer for Zapp, a move that would not only introduce her to a wider audience but also provide invaluable experience within the music industry. This collaboration proved to be pivotal in her career trajectory, exposing her to the intricacies of studio recording and performance.
Murdock's collaboration with Zapp and Roger was particularly fruitful. She is best known for her guest appearance alongside Charlie Wilson on Zapp and Roger's 1986 single "Computer Love". This collaboration catapulted her name into the mainstream, introducing her vocal prowess to a larger audience. The song's innovative use of the talk box and Murdock's soulful vocals made it an instant classic, a timeless piece of music that remains popular today. The impact of the song cemented her place in musical history. It was a partnership that benefited all parties involved and provided a major boost to Murdock's career.
Then came "As We Lay." Produced by Roger Troutman, the song became synonymous with Murdock's name. It was more than a hit; it was an anthem. The song, with its haunting melody and heartfelt lyrics, resonated with listeners on a profound level. It showcased her ability to convey raw emotion through her voice. "As We Lay" remains a staple on R&B radio stations, a testament to its enduring power and Murdock's vocal artistry. The song's success served as a cornerstone of her career, introducing her to the world and solidifying her status as a major recording artist.
The success of her debut album, particularly the single "As We Lay", paved the way for a successful solo career. The record, launched in the US in 1985, quickly garnered widespread acclaim and went gold, an undeniable indicator of her rising star. Her music transcended generational boundaries and found its way into the hearts of people of all ages. This success was not just a measure of her talent, but also her ability to connect with her audience. The albums release served as a key milestone in her career, shaping her into a prominent figure in the music industry.
Murdock's influence wasn't confined to music. She extended her talents into the world of acting, making appearances in films like "8 Mile" (2002), "Menace II Society" (1993), and "Straight Outta Compton" (2015). These roles demonstrate her versatility as a performer and her willingness to explore new avenues of creativity. Her acting endeavors reflect her artistic drive and her desire to connect with audiences in different ways. These experiences broadened her creative horizons, further cementing her artistic versatility.
Beyond her accomplishments in R&B and acting, Murdock has found fulfillment in gospel music. Currently, she is an evangelist at Solid Rock Church in Monroe, Ohio, where she records and sings gospel music and appears in gospel plays. Her shift towards gospel music represents a return to her roots and a deep connection to her faith. It demonstrates her ongoing commitment to her artistic vision. Her focus on gospel music provides a source of great fulfilment and a way to express herself artistically and spiritually.
The official YouTube channel for Shirley Murdock offers a window into her life and work. It's a platform where she shares her music, videos, and insights with her fans. It showcases her global presence as an international R&B/Gospel recording artist, songwriter, actor, and speaker. It's a place where her fans can connect with her and see her work. The YouTube channel provides a modern avenue for her to share her art with the world.
The influence of her music is still felt today, and her contributions to music are undeniable. The ability of her voice to carry emotion, her artistry, and her dedication to her craft have solidified her place as a true icon in the world of music. Her journey continues, inspiring generations with her music, her faith, and her unwavering commitment to artistic expression.
