Don Murray (drummer) facts for kids

Donald Ray Murray (born November 8, 1945 – died March 22, 1996) was an American drummer and animator. He is best known for his drumming with the famous band The Turtles. After leaving The Turtles, Don also played with other groups like The Holy Mackerel and The Surfaris. He also worked as an animator for the well-known cartoon studio Hanna-Barbera.

Don Murray: A Drummer's Story

Early Life and First Band

Don Murray grew up in Inglewood, California. He started playing the drums when he was 15 years old. He quickly became popular by playing at high school dances with his band, The Crossfires.

Playing with The Turtles

The Crossfires released one album called Out Of Control in 1963. By 1965, the band changed its name to The Turtles. At first, the band had trouble playing at some popular places in Southern California, like the Whisky a Go Go, because all the band members were under 21 years old.

After changing their name, The Turtles signed with White Whale Records in 1965. As a drummer for The Turtles, Don played on their first two albums: It Ain't Me Babe (released in 1965) and You Baby (released in 1966). The band also appeared on popular TV shows like Shindig!, Where the Action Is, and Hullabaloo. They even had a small part in the 1966 movie Out of Sight.

After their first show in New York City, Don Murray left The Turtles. Later, in 1991, Don was interviewed for a documentary called The Turtles: Happy Together, along with other former band members.

Other Bands: The Holy Mackerel and The Surfaris

In 1968, a musician named Paul Williams asked Don Murray to join his band, The Holy Mackerel. This band played a unique style of music. In March 1968, The Holy Mackerel started working on their first album in Los Angeles. However, Don left the band during the album's creation to play music on his own.

Later, in 1981, Don Murray joined a new version of the famous surf rock band The Surfaris. He played drums for them and is credited on a live album they released in 1983.

Life After Music

In the 1970s, Don Murray used his artistic skills as an art director for Skateboarder magazine and Hot Rod magazine. By the 1980s, he started working as an animator for the well-known cartoon company Hanna-Barbera, which created many classic cartoons.

His Legacy

Don Murray passed away on March 22, 1996, in Santa Monica, California, at the age of 50. He had been in the hospital for a health issue and passed away from complications. He is remembered for his drumming with The Turtles and his work in animation.

Discography

Albums with The Turtles

Don Murray played drums on these studio albums with The Turtles:

Albums with The Holy Mackerel

Don Murray was part of the recording process for this album:

Albums with The Surfaris

Don Murray is credited on this live album with The Surfaris: