His work doesn't shy from social commentary, neither is he preoccupied with it. His art is driven by a sense of conscience, justice and honesty.
Neil Murray first appeared in the early eighties as a founding member of the groundbreaking Warumpi Band, which over three albums (Big Name, No Blankets, Go Bush, Too Much Humbug) and twenty years of performing helped to make contemporary indigenous music heard in mainstream Australia.
Those who have read his novel "Sing for me Countryman" (regarded as an Australian classic) or poetry book "One Man Tribe", or listened to his spoken word CD - "Spoken" or seen his play "King For This Place" or read his song lyrics in the recently published "Native Born" would know of his affinity for the land and respect for indigenous culture.
In 1995, Neil Murray was awarded the APRA song of the year for "My Island Home" originally written for the Warumpi Band and re-recorded by Christine Anu. "My Island Home" has become something of an unofficial anthem and featured in the closing ceremony of the Sydney 2000 Olympics.
In 2005, Neil Murray received an environmental achievement award by the Glenelg-Hopkins Catchment Management Authority in western Victoria for his efforts in instigating "Healing Walks" along watercourses in the region and for being the inspiration behind establishment of the annual Lake Bolac Eel Festival.
In 2007, Jailanguru Pakarnu - (Out From Jail) a song he co-wrote in the indigenous Luritja language - with fellow Warumpi Band co-founder Sammy Butcher was honoured by the National Film And Sound archives- "Sounds Of Australia" series - as a significant recording in Australia's musical heritage.
Neil Murray performs regularly at festivals and live music venues in Australia and overseas. Neil Murray's albums are out through ABC Music.
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