George Murray
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George Murray is an American bassist whose work with David Bowie during the late 1970s played a crucial role in shaping Bowie’s transition into more experimental and rhythmically driven music.
As part of the core band assembled during Bowie’s Berlin period, Murray contributed a distinctive, disciplined bass style that became foundational to Bowie’s sound on several landmark albums.
- Born: 1952, United States
- Role: Bass guitarist
- Known for: Post-punk and art rock basslines
- Bowie connection: Berlin-era albums and tours
From punk to art rock
George Murray emerged from the late-1970s New York punk and post-punk scene, where rhythm, repetition and minimalism were central musical values.
His bass playing emphasised pulse and structure over virtuosity, creating a strong foundation for experimental arrangements.
David Bowie’s Berlin period
During Bowie’s Berlin years, he sought to distance himself from traditional rock excess, focusing instead on atmosphere, texture and rhythm.
Murray’s playing aligned perfectly with this direction, providing clarity and restraint within increasingly abstract compositions.
Key recordings
Murray’s bass work is central to albums such as Low, “Heroes” and Lodger. His lines often function as structural anchors rather than melodic showcases.
This approach allowed Bowie’s vocals and Brian Eno’s sonic experiments to exist within a stable rhythmic framework.
Live performance and discipline
On stage, Murray’s disciplined presence reinforced Bowie’s desire for precision and emotional control during this period.
The live performances reflected the same balance between tension and restraint found on the studio recordings.