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Murray Head
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Key Information
Murray Seafield St George Head (born 5 March 1946)[1] is an English actor and singer. Head has appeared in a number of films, including a starring role as the character Bob Elkin in the BAFTA award winning and Oscar-nominated 1971 film Sunday Bloody Sunday.[1] As a musician, he is most recognised for his international hit songs "Superstar" (from the 1970 rock opera Jesus Christ Superstar) and "One Night in Bangkok" (the 1984 single from the musical Chess, which topped the charts in various countries). He has been involved in several projects since the 1960s and continues to record music, perform concerts, and make appearances on television either as himself or as a character actor.
Early life and education
[edit]Head was born in London[2] to Seafield Laurence Stewart Murray Head (20 August 1919 – 22 March 2009) and Helen Shingler (29 August 1919 − 8 October 2019).[3][2] Head's father was a documentary filmmaker for Verity Films. Head's mother played Mme Maigret alongside Rupert Davies in the BBC 1960s television adaptation of the Maigret novels written by Georges Simenon. Head's younger brother Anthony Head is also an actor,[2] who played the role of Rupert Giles in the TV series Buffy the Vampire Slayer.
Head was educated at the Lycée Français Charles de Gaulle in South Kensington, London and Hampton School[4] in Hampton, Middlesex. He attended Chiswick Polytechnic (A level college) in the early 1960s.[citation needed]
Career
[edit]Head began writing songs as a child, and by the mid-1960s he had a London-based recording contract. He briefly appeared as one of the hosts of the Bristol-based television pop show Now! alongside Michael Palin. He had limited success, until asked by Tim Rice and Andrew Lloyd Webber to play Judas Iscariot on the original concept album version of Jesus Christ Superstar; at the time, he had been appearing in the West End production of the musical Hair. With the Trinidad Singers, the song "Superstar" peaked at No. 14 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in 1971.
He made his film debut in The Family Way (1966), which featured Hayley Mills, Hywel Bennett and John Mills in the leading roles.[1] Head won a leading role in the Oscar-nominated film Sunday Bloody Sunday (1971), alongside Peter Finch and Glenda Jackson.[1] Despite these successes, he received little public attention in the next ten years (except for his single release, "Say It Ain't So, Joe" in 1975, which has been covered by the Who's lead vocalist, Roger Daltrey, among others, including both Gary Brooker of Procol Harum fame and the Hollies, who also covered his song 'When I'm Yours' in 1979).[1] "Never Even Thought" has been covered by both Colin Blunstone and Cliff Richard.
In 1973, he appeared in a radio drama, The Fourth Tower of Inverness. In 1979, Head appeared in the miniseries Prince Regent and the final episode of the ITV program Return of the Saint.
Head reappeared in the spotlight in 1984 as the American on the concept album for the musical Chess. The song "One Night in Bangkok" featured Head[2] on lead vocals, affecting a New York accent. It became the last significant Broadway/West End number to be a hit single on American and German radio until "No Matter What" by Boyzone in 1996. "One Night in Bangkok" was a success in both Europe and North America.[1] Head performed the role of world chess champion Frederick "Freddie" Trumper in the London West End stage production of Chess that premiered on 14 May 1986. The show ran in London until 8 April 1989; during its run, Head departed with vocal strain.
After that, Head had little recording success in the UK or the United States. This fact would later be underscored in a radio segment featured on The Kevin and Bean Show on KROQ-FM in Los Angeles, in which the hosts would phone Head in the morning to find out "What's Up with Murray Head?" Fluent in French, he has released a number of albums in that language. A duet with Marie Carmen, "Une femme un homme", was released in 1993 and was a hit in French-speaking Canada.
In 1999, Head co-wrote the screenplay to Les Enfants du Siècle.[3]
He has appeared on television in the UK on The Bill, Casualty, North Square and Judge John Deed. He also played artist Jack Hollins, love interest of Gina Ward, on ITV's Heartbeat from 2005 to 2006. On 15 March 2010 he appeared in the BBC drama Doctors playing a pop singer, Pete Perry, trying to make a comeback, in which Head sang Robert Johnson's "Love in Vain". He appeared in Doctors again on 18 April 2019 as a different character, a drummer named Brian 'Sticky' Burns. In Canada, he was part of the cast of the 2002 television mini-series Music-Hall, which played on the Radio-Canada network. In 2011 he appeared in the first episode of the series Vera (episode "Hidden Depths") as Peter Calvert.
Head's picture, from a still of The Family Way, appeared on the 1987 cover of the British band the Smiths single "Stop Me If You Think You've Heard This One Before" and the album cover of the band's 1988 compilation album Stop Me.[5]
Personal life
[edit]Head married Susan Ellis Jones in 1972; they divorced in 1992. He has two daughters.[3][2] Head married Lindy Ross (née Newton) in 2019.
Discography
[edit]- Nigel Lived (1972)
- Say It Ain't So (1976)
- Between Us (1979)
- Voices (1981)
- Shade (1982)
- Restless (1984)
- Sooner or Later (1986)
- Wave (1992)
- Pipe Dreams (1995)
- Tête à tête (2007)
- Rien n'est écrit (2008) - Also distributed as a double album, with new versions of classics such as Say It Ain't So, Never Even Thought, You Are, etc.
- My Back Pages (2012) - Performs songs by other artists, Bob Dylan, Kansas, Spencer Davis Group, The Who, Roxy Music, Dido, etc.
Selected filmography
[edit]- Film
| Year | Title | Role | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1966 | The Family Way | Geoffrey Fitton | Sings "Someday Soon" |
| 1967 | Two Weeks in September | Dickinson's assistant | |
| 1971 | Aphrousa | Nicholas | |
| Sunday Bloody Sunday | Bob Elkin | ||
| La Mandarine | Tony the Englishman | ||
| 1973 | Gawain and the Green Knight | Gawain | |
| 1975 | El poder del deseo | Javier | |
| 1977 | The Frenchwoman | David Evans | |
| 1987 | White Mischief | Lizzie | |
| 1989 | Un été d'orages | Jack | Also wrote the music |
| La Barbare | Michael | ||
| 1996 | Beaumarchais | William, Lord Rochford | |
| 1999 | Le Grand Serpent du Monde | Tom | |
| 2002 | The Lovers of the Nile | The Colonel | |
| 2003 | I, Cesar | Charley Fitzpatrick | |
| 2009 | No pasaran | Peter Konchelski | |
| 2015 | Fever | Jim |
- Television
| Year | Title | Role | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1967 | St Ives | Saladin | Two episodes |
| 1971 | Shirley's World | Ray King | |
| 1974 | The Fortunes of Nigel | Lord Dalgarno | |
| Seven Faces of a Woman | Tom | ||
| Intent for Murder | Larry | ||
| Play for Today | Singer | Episode "Taking Leave" | |
| 1979 | Return of the Saint | Pierre de la Garde | Episode 24 "The Diplomat's Daughter" |
| Prince Regent | George Canning | Three episodes | |
| 1989 | Boon | Rupert Cole | Series 4 Episode 3 "The Relief of Matty King" |
| 1998 | The New Adventures of Robin Hood | Ripley | |
| 1999 | The Knock | Mike Hewson | Two episodes |
| 2000 | Casualty | Billy Cooper | Series 15 Episode 6 "Choked: Part Two" |
| North Square | Judge Martin Bould | Eight episodes | |
| The Vice | Tommy Roker | Two episodes | |
| 2002 | Asbestos | Peter Bedford | |
| Music-Hall | Clife Maisie | ||
| 2003 | Rosemary & Thyme | Nev Connolly | |
| 2004 | The Bill | Charles Mawdsley | |
| 2005-2007 | Heartbeat | Jack Rollins | Three episodes |
| 2007 | Judge John Deed | Judge Prévin | |
| Holby City | Doug Finn | Three episodes | |
| 2009 | Relive | Steven Winterley | |
| 2010 | Doctors | Pete Perry | Episode "Birth of the Blues" |
| 2011 | Vera's Mysteries | Peter Calvert | |
| 2012 | Holby City | Steve Rurner | |
| 2013 | Doctors | Leo Treadwell | Episode "Difficulty" |
| 2014 | Holby City | Billy Tressler | Three episodes |
| Horsehead | Jim | ||
| 2017 | Doctors | Ralphy Aspden | Two episodes |
| 2019 | War of the Worlds | Mikel |
See also
[edit]Notes
[edit]References
[edit]- ^ a b c d e f Ankeny, Jason. "Artist Biography". AllMusic.
- ^ a b c d e "Murray Head". NNDB.com. Retrieved 19 December 2016.
- ^ a b c "Murray Head: Biography". Internet Movie Database.
- ^ "Murray Head Official Site". Retrieved 14 June 2023.
- ^ Brown, Len (7 April 2010). Meetings with Morrissey. Omnibus Press. ISBN 978-0-85712-240-7.
External links
[edit]- Murray Head at AllMusic
- Murray Head discography at Discogs
- Murray Head at IMDb
- Hugh Schofield, "Murray Head: 'Unsung at home, but a hero in France'", BBC News, 24 December 2021
Murray Head
View on Grokipediafrom Grokipedia
Murray Seafield St George Head (born 5 March 1946) is an English singer-songwriter and actor known for his contributions to musical theatre, pop music, and film.[1][2]
Head was born in London to documentary filmmaker Seafield Head and actress Helen Shingler, and he is the older brother of actor Anthony Stewart Head, recognized for his role in the television series Buffy the Vampire Slayer.[2][3] He began his performing career at age 12, appearing in radio plays and television commercials, before making his film debut in 1966's The Family Way and his television debut the following year in the mini-series The Wednesday Play.[2][1]
In music, Head achieved international success with the 1970 single "Superstar," which he recorded as the voice of Judas on the concept album for Andrew Lloyd Webber and Tim Rice's Jesus Christ Superstar, peaking at number 47 on the UK Singles Chart in 1972 and number 74 on the US Billboard Hot 100.[1] His biggest commercial hit came in 1984 with "One Night in Bangkok," the lead single from the Chess concept album by Benny Andersson, Björn Ulvaeus, and Tim Rice, peaking at number 12 on the UK Singles Chart and number 3 on the US Billboard Hot 100.[1][2] Over his career, he has released numerous albums, including Nigel Lived (1972), Between Us (1979), and Restless (1984), blending pop, rock, and musical theatre styles.[1]
As an actor, Head gained critical acclaim for his role as a bisexual love interest in John Schlesinger's 1971 film Sunday Bloody Sunday, alongside Peter Finch and Glenda Jackson.[2] His filmography includes notable appearances in The Shooting Party (1985), The Corsican Brothers (1985), Dangerous Liaisons (1988), The Secrets of the Heart (1997), and Mrs. Brown (1997).[2] He has also performed extensively on stage, including in the original London production of Chess (1986), and in television roles across British and international series.[2] Head's versatile career continues into the 2020s, including a farewell tour in 2025.[1][4]
Head's compilation releases include Greatest Hits in 2001 on Voiceprint Records, which collected tracks like "Say It Ain't So Joe" and "One Night in Bangkok" alongside lesser-known cuts, serving as a retrospective of his pop and rock output.[91] In 2006, he issued Emotions: My Favourite Songs on EMI, a covers album featuring reinterpretations of favorites such as "Will You Still Love Me Tomorrow" and selections from his own catalog, emphasizing emotional depth in acoustic arrangements.[92] These compilations highlight Head's versatility, blending originals with covers to appeal to longtime fans.[1]
Early life and education
Family background
Murray Seafield St George Head was born on 5 March 1946 in London, England.[5][6] His father, Seafield Laurence Stewart Murray Head (1919–2009), was a documentary filmmaker who founded Verity Films, a production company specializing in educational and promotional shorts.[7][8] His mother, Helen Shingler (1919–2019), was an actress noted for her recurring role as Madame Maigret in the BBC television series Maigret (1960–1963), alongside Rupert Davies as the titular detective.[9][10][11] Head grew up alongside his younger brother, Anthony Stewart Head (born 20 February 1954), who later became an actor recognized for his portrayal of Rupert Giles in the television series Buffy the Vampire Slayer (1997–2003).[12][13] The family resided in London, where the parents' careers in film and theatre fostered an environment rich in artistic influences, exposing Head to performing arts and creative storytelling from an early age.[7][14]Schooling and early influences
Murray Head received his early education at the Lycée Français Charles de Gaulle in South Kensington, London, where he developed fluency in French despite finding the environment challenging. He later attended Hampton School in Hampton, Middlesex, during his teenage years, followed by Chiswick Polytechnic for A-level studies in the early 1960s.[15][2][16] Growing up in an artistic family provided a nurturing backdrop for Head's burgeoning interests in performance, with his mother Helen Shingler working as an actress and his father Seafield Head as a documentary filmmaker. He began writing songs as a child and started performing at age 12, appearing in radio plays that marked his initial foray into the arts. These early experiences, combined with exposure to the dynamic 1960s British music scene—including folk traditions and the advent of innovative theatrical forms like rock operas—fueled his passion for music and acting.[15][1] By his late teens, around age 18–20, Head decided to pursue acting and music professionally; in 1964, at 18, he won a songwriting competition on Radio Luxembourg alongside future Led Zeppelin bassist John Paul Jones, securing a recording contract with Decca Records and launching his career.[15]Music career
Breakthrough in musical theatre
Murray Head entered the music industry in the late 1960s with the single "She Was Perfection" released in 1967 on the Immediate Records label, which showcased his early vocal style amid the British psychedelic scene.[17] These initial recordings, produced during a period when Head was balancing acting aspirations, laid the groundwork for his vocal capabilities but achieved limited commercial traction. His pivotal breakthrough arrived in 1969 when he was cast as Judas Iscariot for the concept album Jesus Christ Superstar, the rock opera composed by Andrew Lloyd Webber with lyrics by Tim Rice.[18] As a then-struggling actor, Head was selected for the role of the conflicted betrayer, delivering intense performances that captured the character's turmoil and rock-infused edge.[19] The album, released in 1970, featured Head's prominent vocals on opening track "Heaven on Their Minds," where he conveys Judas's warnings to Jesus in a gritty, urgent rock delivery, and on the climactic "Superstar," backed by the Trinidad Singers in a choral arrangement that blended gospel influences with progressive rock.[20] The Jesus Christ Superstar concept album marked a massive commercial triumph, topping the US Billboard 200 and reaching number 6 on the UK Albums Chart, selling over three million copies worldwide by the mid-1970s, and propelling Head to international prominence as a singer.[21][22] Its innovative fusion of rock music with biblical themes earned critical acclaim and secured a Grammy nomination in 1971 for Album of the Year, highlighting the ensemble's impact including Head's contributions.[23] This success launched Head's career in musical theatre soundtracks, establishing him as a key voice in the emerging genre of rock opera and opening doors to further recording opportunities.[24]Solo albums and major hits
Murray Head launched his solo recording career with the album Nigel Lived in 1972, a soft rock collection that highlighted his introspective songwriting and versatile vocals through tracks like "Pacing on the Station" and "Sheep".[25] His second album, Say It Ain't So, arrived in 1975 on Island Records and marked a commercial breakthrough with the title track single "Say It Ain't So Joe", a poignant pop-rock ballad about disillusionment that peaked at number 9 on the UK Singles Chart.[26][27] The late 1970s and early 1980s saw Head delve deeper into pop-rock experimentation. Between Us (1979) blended synth-pop and folk-rock influences, produced by Rupert Hine and featuring strings arranged by Gavin Wright on select tracks like "Los Angeles" and "Mademoiselle".[28][29] Voices (1981), recorded with contributions from Jeff Beck on guitar and Fairport Convention members, further explored contemporary pop-rock with songs such as "Last Days of an Empire" and "Hey Lady".[30][31] Head's international stardom peaked in 1984 with "One Night in Bangkok", the lead single from the Chess concept album tied to the musical of the same name. Co-written by former ABBA members Benny Andersson and Björn Ulvaeus (music) alongside Tim Rice (lyrics), the track's rap-infused verses and choral refrain captured Cold War tensions through a chess metaphor; it topped charts in Australia, West Germany, Switzerland, and several other European countries, reached number 3 on the US Billboard Hot 100, and number 12 in the UK.[32][33] That same year, Head issued Restless, a polished pop-rock set including "When You're in Love" and "Modern Boy".[34][35] In 1986, Sooner or Later continued Head's pop-oriented trajectory on Virgin Records, with tracks like "You Are" and "With a Passion" emphasizing melodic hooks and thematic depth.[36][37]Later recordings and tours
In the 1990s, Murray Head's musical output shifted toward more introspective and genre-blending styles, incorporating jazz, blues, and world music influences, as evident in albums like Wave (1992), which featured tracks blending pop-rock with atmospheric elements, and Pipe Dreams (1995), noted for its inclusion of blues standards and flamenco-inspired pieces such as "Dancing Flamenco Alone."[38][39][40] Head's popularity in France grew during this period, leading to French-language releases that highlighted his versatility, including Tête à Tête (2007), a duet-focused album with tracks like "Serás-tu là?" in French, and Rien N'Est Écrit (2008), which explored themes of fate and reflection entirely in French, achieving moderate chart success in French-speaking markets.[41][15] In the 2010s and beyond, Head continued diversifying his sound with Blues & Beyond (2010), a blues-oriented album featuring covers like "Hesitation Blues" and originals such as "India Song," emphasizing acoustic guitar and improvisational elements akin to jazz traditions.[42][43] His 2012 release My Back Pages was a covers album interpreting folk and rock classics, including Bob Dylan's title track and Kansas's "Dust in the Wind," showcasing his interpretive vocal style.[44][45] Most recently, Say It Ain't So (Live!) (2023) captured a concert performance, highlighting his enduring stage presence through reinterpreted hits and deeper cuts.[46][47] Throughout his later career, Head has maintained an active touring schedule, with extensive performances across Europe, particularly in France where he enjoys a dedicated following, often featuring staples like "One Night in Bangkok" in setlists alongside newer material.[15] In 2025, he embarked on a Farewell Tour, including dates in Canada such as Sherbrooke (May 28), Montreal (May 30), Quebec City (June 1), and Trois-Rivières (June 3), followed by shows in France like Jonzac (December 16) and Caen (December 9), marking a reflective close to his live performances.[4][48]Acting career
Early film and television roles
Murray Head made his film debut at the age of 20 in the 1966 British comedy-drama The Family Way, directed by Roy Boulting, where he portrayed Geoffrey Fitton, the elder son in a working-class family navigating post-wedding tensions.[49] The film starred Hayley Mills as his sister-in-law Jenny and John Mills as the family patriarch Ezra, marking Head's entry into screen acting amid his emerging music career.[6] In 1968, Head appeared as the Chorus in Franco Zeffirelli's acclaimed adaptation of Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet, a role that provided narrative framing for the star-crossed lovers played by Leonard Whiting and Olivia Hussey.[50] This supporting part in the Oscar-winning production highlighted his early versatility, drawing on his theatrical background influenced by his mother, actress Helen Shingler, who had appeared in BBC adaptations like Maigret.[6] Head's breakthrough screen role came in 1971 with John Schlesinger's Sunday Bloody Sunday, where he played Bob Elkin, a free-spirited young sculptor entangled in a polyamorous relationship with a divorced woman (Glenda Jackson) and a Jewish doctor (Peter Finch).[51] The film, nominated for five Academy Awards including Best Director, earned critical praise for its bold exploration of emotional complexity and received the Golden Globe for Best Screenplay.[52] Head's performance as the bisexual artist was noted for its natural charisma, solidifying his presence in British cinema during this period.[53] During the early 1970s, Head also ventured into television, appearing in BBC dramas that built on his film experience, though his primary focus remained on cinema and music.[15] This phase represented a seamless transition from stage influences—stemming from his family's artistic milieu—to establishing a screen persona around age 20.[3]Notable films
Murray Head's film career gained momentum in the 1970s with lead and supporting roles in international productions that showcased his ability to portray nuanced, morally ambiguous characters. In 1973, he starred as the titular Sir Gawain in Gawain and the Green Knight, a medieval fantasy adaptation directed by Stephen Weeks, where he embodied the chivalric knight facing a supernatural challenge from the enigmatic Green Knight.[54] This role marked one of his early breakthroughs in period fantasy, highlighting his commanding screen presence in a tale of honor and temptation. Earlier, in 1977's Madame Claude, Head took the starring role of David Evans, a British secret agent entangled in the world of a high-end Parisian call girl ring run by the titular madame, blending espionage thriller elements with erotic drama under director Just Jaeckin.[55] Head continued to build his reputation through supporting roles in dramatic thrillers during the 1980s, often drawing on his British heritage for characters in exotic or colonial settings. In Michael Radford's 1987 film White Mischief, set amid the hedonistic expatriate community in 1940s Kenya, Head portrayed Lizzie, a sophisticated yet cynical figure involved in the scandalous social circle that inspired James Fox's novel, contributing to the film's exploration of decadence and murder. His work increasingly gravitated toward French cinema in the late 1980s and beyond, reflecting his growing popularity in Europe. In 1989's La Barbare, directed by Mireille Darc, Head played Michael, a complex mentor figure to a grieving teenage girl navigating loss and rebellion in a story of emotional turmoil and makeshift family bonds.[56] The 1990s and 2010s saw Head in art-house period pieces that emphasized introspective and authoritative roles. He appeared as Lord Rochford in Édouard Molinaro's 1996 biographical drama Beaumarchais, depicting the English diplomat in the tumultuous life of the playwright Pierre-Augustin Caron de Beaumarchais during the lead-up to the French Revolution, adding gravitas to the film's satirical take on Enlightenment intrigue. Later, in 2014's psychological horror Horsehead (also known as Fièvre), directed by Romain Basset, Head portrayed Jim, the enigmatic father whose shamanistic guidance influences his daughter's nightmarish encounters with subconscious fears, blending family dynamics with surreal mysticism.[57] Throughout these films, Head frequently embodied complex, introspective characters—often outsiders or moral guides—in art-house and period narratives that delved into themes of identity, desire, and existential conflict, cementing his niche in international cinema.Theatre and later work
Head's notable theatre work includes originating the role of Frederick "Freddie" Trumper, the brash American grandmaster, in the West End premiere of the musical Chess at the Prince Edward Theatre on 14 May 1986. The production, with music by Benny Andersson and Björn Ulvaeus and book by Tim Rice, ran for 68 performances and marked a significant stage milestone for Head, blending his acting and singing talents in a Cold War-themed narrative. This role also tied into his music career through the associated concept album, where his performance of "One Night in Bangkok" became a global hit.[58] In a return to the stage three decades later, Head portrayed the enigmatic Arbiter in the 2018 West End revival of Chess at the London Coliseum, directed by Tim Rice and featuring a score reimagined by Benny Andersson and Björn Ulvaeus. He opened the production on 26 April but departed shortly thereafter due to personal reasons, with American actor Cedric Neal assuming the role.[59] Transitioning to later acting projects, Head embraced supporting and character roles across television, often in guest capacities that showcased his versatility. In the UK, he appeared as Judge Martin Bould in all eight episodes of the legal drama North Square (2000), a BBC series exploring barristers' ethical dilemmas. He also guest-starred in long-running shows including The Bill (as various characters in episodes from the 1990s to 2000s), Casualty (medical emergencies in multiple 2000s appearances), and Judge John Deed (2001–2007), where he played authoritative figures in courtroom settings.[60][61] On French television and co-productions, Head contributed to bilingual projects reflecting his life in France since the 1980s. A highlight was his role as the mysterious Mikel in the 2019 Canal+ and Fox Europe series War of the Worlds, an international adaptation of H.G. Wells' novel directed by Gilles Coulier and Richard Clark, where he appeared in one episode amid an alien invasion storyline. Earlier, in 2010, he played Pete Perry, a fading pop singer seeking redemption, in the BBC soap Doctors, performing Robert Johnson's "Love in Vain" during the episode. Other TV credits include Peter Calvert in Vera (2011) and Steve Turner in Holby City (2012).[62][61] In film, Head took on minor character parts post-2000, such as the Colonel in the French romantic drama The Lovers of the Nile (Les Amants du Nil, 2002), directed by Éric Heumann, set against a World War II backdrop in Tunisia. His work extended occasionally to voice acting, though limited, with contributions to animated or dubbed projects in French media. Throughout the 2010s and into the 2020s, Head's appearances remained sporadic, focusing on nuanced supporting roles that highlighted his bilingual proficiency and depth in portraying complex, introspective figures.[63][15]Personal life
Marriage and family
Murray Head married Susan Ellis Jones in 1972.[58] The couple had two daughters during their marriage, Katherine and Sophie, before divorcing in 1992 after 20 years together.[58] Sophie has occasionally collaborated with her father as a backing vocalist on stage.[64] Post-divorce, Head and his former wife maintained a focus on family, with no public details on specific co-parenting arrangements, and he has not remarried as of the latest available information.[65] Head's extended family includes his younger brother, actor Anthony Stewart Head, whose daughters—actresses Emily Head and Daisy Head—are Murray's nieces.[66]Residences and later years
In the 1980s, Murray Head relocated to France, drawn by the success of his music there since the mid-1970s and his growing fluency in French, which opened up professional opportunities in a more appreciative market compared to the UK.[15] He primarily resided in the Paris area for many years, embracing the cultural environment that fostered his career as both a musician and actor.[67] By the early 2020s, Head had begun transitioning to a quieter life in the southwest of France, moving from Paris to the Pyrenees region near Pau, including a home in Saucède in the Pyrénées-Atlantiques department, reflecting a personal preference for a more serene setting amid semi-retirement.[67][68] In September 2022, he was involved in a minor car accident near Gan, colliding with a lorry after losing control of his vehicle; he sustained light injuries and was briefly hospitalized but recovered without long-term issues.[69][70] Despite a lower profile in the UK, Head remains a cultural icon in France, often described as a "hero" for his enduring popularity and contributions to music and theatre, as highlighted in a 2021 BBC feature during one of his French tours.[15] At age 79 in 2025, he maintains an active lifestyle, selectively engaging in projects such as his Farewell Tour across France and Canada, while pursuing writing interests, including co-authoring screenplays like that for the 1999 film Children of the Century.[2][71]Discography
Studio albums
Murray Head's studio discography spans over four decades, beginning with his debut in the early 1970s and evolving through diverse genres including folk-rock, soul, pop, electronic, and blues influences. His albums often reflect personal and social themes, with occasional forays into French-language recordings and collaborations. The following lists his original studio albums in chronological order, highlighting key production details, themes, and notable reception. Nigel Lived (1972, CBS Records): Head's debut album is a concept record tracing the emotional journey of its titular character through a single day, blending folk-rock elements with introspective lyrics. Produced by David Whitaker and recorded at Island Studios in London, it features session musicians like Herbie Flowers on bass and received praise for its narrative cohesion and Head's vocal delivery, though it achieved limited commercial success.[25][72][73] Say It Ain't So (1975, Island Records): This sophomore effort marks a shift toward soul-infused pop, exploring themes of political disillusionment and personal loss amid the post-Watergate era. Produced by Paul Samwell-Smith of the Yardbirds, it includes the title track as a standout single and was noted for its sophisticated arrangements and Head's emotive phrasing, earning positive reviews for its maturity over his debut.[27][74] Between Us (1979, Phonogram): A collaborative album produced by Rupert Hine, featuring contributions from Phil Collins on drums for several tracks, Between Us delves into relational dynamics and urban life with a soft rock sensibility. Tracks like "Los Angeles" highlight Head's storytelling, and it was well-regarded for its warm production and ensemble feel, though it remained a cult favorite rather than a chart-topper.[29][28][75] Voices (1981, Polydor): Featuring guest appearances by Jeff Beck on guitar and members of Fairport Convention, this album emphasizes acoustic folk-pop with themes of introspection and societal change. Produced by Head himself with engineering by Dave Charles, it garnered acclaim for its musical guest list and authentic sound, achieving moderate airplay in Europe.[30][76] Shade (1982, Virgin Records): Head's fifth release explores existential and romantic motifs through a mix of new wave and rock, produced by Rupert Hine. Notable for tracks like "Peace of Mind," it received mixed reviews for its experimental edges but was appreciated for Head's versatile vocals and the album's atmospheric production.[77] Restless (1984, Virgin Records): Produced during an extended residency in France, this album incorporates pop-rock with subtle electronic touches, addressing themes of love and transience. It marked Head's growing European popularity, featuring the single "When You're in Love," which contributed to its regional success.[35][34] Sooner or Later (1987, Virgin Records): Collaborating with producer Steve Hillage (ex-Gong), Head embraces synth-pop and electronic elements, focusing on passion and futurism in tracks like "You Are." The album was critiqued for its polished 1980s production but praised for its energetic vibe and Head's adaptive style.[36][78] Wave (1992, XIII BIS Records): A introspective pop album recorded in France, Wave examines loss and renewal with subtle orchestral arrangements. Self-produced by Head, it includes bilingual elements and was noted for its emotional depth, though it flew under the radar commercially.[79][80] Innocence (1993, Mercury Records): Blending English and French tracks, this release revisits themes of youth and vulnerability through acoustic and pop lenses. Produced with a focus on simplicity, it features re-recordings and new material, earning appreciation for its heartfelt bilingual approach.[81] Tête à Tête (2007, Odeon): A familial collaboration with Head's daughter Sophie on vocals, this album mixes pop and ballads in both languages, emphasizing intimacy and legacy. Produced by Head, it charted modestly in France at number 175 and was lauded for its personal warmth.[82] Rien n'est Écrit (2008, Sony BMG): Head's fully French-language pop album, co-written with French artists, tackles fate and resilience with melodic hooks. It peaked at number 100 in France and number 17 in Quebec, receiving positive feedback for its cultural fusion and accessibility.[83] Blues & Beyond (2010, Editions Murray Head Music): An exploration of blues standards and originals, recorded with a small ensemble, this album highlights Head's interpretive skills on tracks like "How Can a Poor Man." Self-released and intimate in scope, it was celebrated for revitalizing his career with raw, genre-rooted energy.[42][84][85] My Back Pages (2012, Editions Murray Head Music): Comprising covers of classic rock and folk songs like "Dust in the Wind," this reflective album showcases Head's matured voice over acoustic arrangements. Produced at London studios, it was well-received for its nostalgic yet fresh takes, appealing to longtime fans.[44][86]Singles and compilations
Murray Head's singles career began in the mid-1960s with early releases on labels like Columbia, including "The Bells of Rhymney" in 1965 and "Love in the Open Air" in 1967, though these did not achieve significant commercial success.[87] His breakthrough came with "Superstar" from the Jesus Christ Superstar rock opera in 1971, which peaked at number 47 on the UK Singles Chart in collaboration with Yvonne Elliman.[26] One of Head's most notable singles, "Say It Ain't So Joe," released in 1975 from his album of the same name, became a cult favorite and charted at number 18 in France, marking his growing European appeal despite limited UK traction.[88] The track's introspective lyrics about disillusionment resonated over time, later covered by artists like Roger Daltrey.[89] Head's international breakthrough arrived with "One Night in Bangkok" in 1984, featured on the Chess concept album soundtrack. The single reached number 12 on the UK Singles Chart, spending 16 weeks there, and number 3 on the US Billboard Hot 100.[26][90] It topped charts in several countries, including Australia and the Netherlands, and achieved certifications including platinum in Canada (100,000 units), gold in France (500,000 units), and silver in the UK (250,000 units), with global sales exceeding 1 million copies. Another single from the Chess project, "The Russians," released in 1986 from his album Sooner or Later, addressed Cold War tensions but saw modest chart performance, peaking outside the top 40 in major markets.[1]| Single Title | Release Year | Key Chart Peaks | Label |
|---|---|---|---|
| Superstar (with Yvonne Elliman) | 1971 | UK #47 | MCA |
| Say It Ain't So Joe | 1975 | France #18 | Island |
| One Night in Bangkok | 1984 | UK #12, US #3, Australia #1 | RCA |
| The Russians | 1986 | Limited charting | Virgin |
Filmography
Feature films
Murray Head began his film career in the mid-1960s with roles in British productions, transitioning later to more international work, including a significant number of French-language films from the 1980s onward. Over his career, he has appeared in around 30 feature films, often in supporting or character roles that highlight his versatile screen presence. The following is a selected chronological list of key feature film appearances, focusing on notable examples with brief descriptions of his characters.[58][6]- 1966: The Family Way – As Geoffrey Fitton, the shy and troubled newlywed son in this British comedy-drama about family tensions in working-class Lancashire.[49]
- 1968: Romeo and Juliet – Portraying the Chorus, providing narrative framing in Franco Zeffirelli's adaptation of Shakespeare's tragedy starring Leonard Whiting and Olivia Hussey.[93]
- 1970: The Family – As William, in this British drama directed by Don Sharp.[94]
- 1971: Sunday Bloody Sunday – As Bob Elkin, a young graphic designer entangled in a complex bisexual love triangle, in John Schlesinger's acclaimed drama exploring relationships in 1970s London.[51]
- 1973: Gawain and the Green Knight – In the title role of Gawain, the noble knight facing a supernatural challenge in this medieval fantasy based on the Arthurian legend.[95]
- 1977: Madame Claude – As David Evans, an English photographer drawn into the world of an elite Parisian escort service run by the enigmatic Madame Claude.[55]
- 1985: The Shooting Party – As Tom Harker, in this British period drama directed by Alan Bridges.[96]
- 1985: The Corsican Brothers – As Lorenzo de' Medici, in this adventure film directed by Raphael Nussbaum.[97]
- 1987: White Mischief – As Lizzie, a libertine member of Kenya's notorious Happy Valley set during the 1941 murder scandal in Michael Radford's period drama.[98]
- 1988: Dangerous Liaisons – As Raccord, in Stephen Frears' adaptation of the classic novel.[99]
- 1989: La Barbare – Playing Michael, a key figure in this French thriller involving corporate intrigue and personal vendettas.
- 1996: Beaumarchais the Scoundrel – As Lord Rochford, an English diplomat entangled in the adventures of the playwright Pierre-Augustin Caron de Beaumarchais in this French biographical comedy.[100]
- 1997: The Secrets of the Heart (Secretos del corazón) – As Don Manuel, in this Spanish drama directed by Montxo Armendáriz.[101]
- 1997: Mrs. Brown – As Sir Henry Ponsonby, in this historical drama starring Judi Dench.[102]
- 1999: The Big Snake of the World (Le Grand Serpent du Monde) – As Tom, a traveler caught in mystical and psychological turmoil in this French surrealist drama.[103]
- 2002: Lovers of the Nile (Les Amants du Nil) – Portraying Le Colonel, a military figure influencing the romantic and familial conflicts in this French-Tunisian drama set in North Africa.[104]
- 2003: I, Cesar (Moi César, 10 ans 1/2, 1m39) – As Mr. Fitzpatrick, the authoritarian father of the protagonist in this French coming-of-age comedy about schoolyard hierarchies.[105]
- 2014: Horsehead – As Jim, the enigmatic grandfather with shamanic qualities who guides his granddaughter through nightmarish visions in this French psychological horror film.[57]