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Straight Outta Detroit, Saxophonist Dave McMurray Brings 'Music Is Life' to Our Studio

Paul Moore
/
Blue Note Records
Dave McMurray

Saxophonist Dave McMurray says that every time he hears an instrumentalist from Detroit, it feels like they’re singing.

The Motown native knows this feeling. He grew up with it, eventually bringing his own versatility to gigs with B.B. King, Herbie Hancock, Johnny Hallyday, Gladys Knight, Nancy Wilson and Geri Allen. This was all in addition to being part of Was (Not Was), whose bassist and cofounder, Don Was, is now president of Blue Note Records.

Dave put it all on his new Blue Note release, Music Is Life. And he came to play on Morning Jazz, bringing his bassist Ibrahim Jones to share his edgy, soul-filled spirit. They played some originals from the album, and a killing solo closer of Duke Ellington’s “In A Sentimental Mood.”

Here is footage of the duo in our studio performing a McMurray original, "Time #5."

Recording: Corey Goldberg

In jazz radio, great announcers are distinguished by their ability to convey the spontaneity and passion of the music. Gary Walker is such an announcer, and his enthusiasm for this music greets WBGO listeners every morning. This winner of the 1996 Gavin Magazine Jazz Radio Personality of the Year award has hosted the morning show each weekday from 5:00 a.m. to 9:00 a.m. And, by his own admission, he's truly having a great time.