Today we’d like to introduce you to Johnny Murphy.
Hi Johnny, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
Johnny Murphy grew up in Auburn, Alabama, where music was always present even though he didn’t pick up a guitar until after his 11th birthday. It wasn’t until much later that he began taking the instrument seriously.
He first came to San Antonio in 2005 for Air Force basic training. His first duty assignment was at Lackland Air Force Base, where he worked as an Air Traffic Controller for about six years before being transferred to Oklahoma. After a few years away, he returned to San Antonio. When he left the military, he shifted his attention toward music.
With no formal training, Johnny began working on his singing and guitar playing on his own. Over time, what started as a personal interest became something he pursued consistently. After several years of practice, he started performing live around San Antonio, playing covers at local venues and collaborating with other musicians in the area.
Today, Johnny performs frequent three- to four-hour sets throughout the local area, blending original music with a wide range of covers. His shows are energetic and never repetitive, with setlists that change from night to night. Audiences can expect familiar favorites, lesser-known gems, and a broad spectrum of American music spanning from the 1950s to the present.
In recent years, Johnny expanded into writing and producing original music. He currently has two projects available on major streaming platforms under the names Funksol Fuse and Johnny Murphy. His work can be found on Spotify, Apple Music, and YouTube.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
My biggest hurdle in my early years as a music was just overcoming stage fright and the general fear of being in front of large crowds. Now my biggest struggle is promoting my music and booking gigs (currently looking for a new agent)
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
Former Air Force Air Traffic Controller of 10 years.
I’m known as a strong and inventive lead guitarist in the local area.
One of the funnest gigs I have is playing Oldies for the seniors at various retirement homes across San Antonio.
I can play 4 hours of non-stop live music without missing a beat. Blending things from Rock to Reggae, to Country, to Jazz. Expect to hear everything from Led Zeppelin to Frank Sinatra on any given night.
What has been the most important lesson you’ve learned along your journey?
Life is a gift from God, take the good with the bad and roll with the punches.
The only person that can prevent ypu from realizing your dreams or achieving your goals is yourself, don’t get in your own way.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://jpmurphymusic.com
- Instagram: @funksol_fuse
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1Cj7fHoAP6/
- Youtube: https://music.youtube.com/channel/UCF27300jbCQ-2_QcNZAfBwQ?si=1GFuuyIBDDSY5y-Z
Image Credits
Photos by @sonia_zeye_photography
