Born in Taranaki, and moved down to Manakau, Horowhenua in the lower north island at the age of 5. Brought up a farmers son with a musical interest that started with piano lessons which were traded in for self taught guitar. With influence’s from Deep Purple thru to Neil Young and the Beatles.

  During a strike while working at the freezing works he teamed up with good friend Tura Rata and hit the streets busking, playing a blend of Country, Blues and Folk.

 Naming themselves “Road Works” after all the traveling, the pair played the streets of many towns around New Zealand.

Drummer Brent Gemmel joined the team to form ‘the Gravel Slappers” and they continued to play the streets also playing pubs with a unique all acoustic style.

 With a young family Dean retreated from the music scene for around fifteen years working many different jobs as well as unemployment and developing a political bent combined with a love of the natural world, growing food, organics, and community.

  All the while still playing guitar and writing music but not finishing or performing he was challenged by another good friend Ian Campbell to do just that.

You got your reasons - play video
Sample of live recording. Dean Murray live at the Performing Arts Centre, Levin Nov 2006. Go to Deans page to hear more of his songs .