Don Murray (drummer)

For other persons named Don Murray, see Don Murray.

Donald Ray Murray (November 8, 1945 – March 22, 1996) was an American drummer, best known for his work with The Turtles. After leaving The Turtles Murray played with Paul Williams's psychedelic folk group The Holy Mackerel.

Career[]

Murray grew up in Inglewood, California and started playing drums at the age of 15. He became popular playing high school dances with the band The Crossfires. A year later the Crossfires became the Turtles, but the band had troubles playing at most Southern California venues such as Whiskey A Go Go and the Troubadour, because all members of the band were under 21.

The band opened for larger "British Invasion" bands at first, such as Herman's Hermits and Peter & Gordon, before touring the US that summer.

Personal life[]

Murray married his high school girlfriend Kathy Koontz as The Turtles hit the big time, and soon they had a daughter, Jenny.

He was admitted to a hospital in January 1996 for ulcer surgery, and died three months later from post-operative complications.

External links[]

• Don Murray memorial at Surfrider.org

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