Do you remember The Murmurs? Having asked around a bit, it seems many people my age don’t! I was a little sad to realise this… BUT… not to worry! This blog post us here to help remind you, or introduce you to their music… and provide a little context from 30 years on from their 1994 debut album.
The Murmurs were an alternative pop duo comprising the talented singers/songwriters Leisha Hailey and Heather Grody. I remember thinking when I heard them back in the day that I thought they must be the Simon and Garfunkel of the 90s. I’m not sure if anyone else thought this, then or now, but to a 19-year-old me, the connection was clear.
From their humble beginnings at the American Academy of Dramatic Arts to their rise to fame, the Murmurs left an indelible mark on the music scene in the 1990s. In this blog post, we will explore their journey, and the impact they had on alternative pop music.
The Early Years
It was in 1991 when Leisha Hailey and Heather Grody first joined forces as the Murmurs. Both were students at New York City’s American Academy of Dramatic Arts, and their shared love for music brought them together. They began performing at various venues in the East Village club circuit, captivating audiences with their unique sound and mesmerizing harmonies. It didn’t take long for the Murmurs to build a devoted following, and their talent soon caught the attention of music industry professionals.
Signing with MCA and Breakthrough Success
In 1994, the Murmurs signed a record deal with MCA and released their self-titled debut album. This marked a significant milestone in their career, as they introduced their captivating blend of alternative pop to a wider audience. The album featured the infectious and somewhat tongue-in-cheek single “You Suck,” which became a novelty hit and garnered significant attention. The Murmurs’ signature harmonies and catchy melodies resonated with listeners, and their popularity continued to grow. There was some shock value to the lyrics of their biggest hit, but what really made me a fan was every other song on their debut album.
“Beautiful Peace,” for example is musically quite beautiful, and lyrically quite touching.
From it’s intriguing flute opening, “All I Need to Know” has a catchy feel to it, while still keeping true to the “alt” nature of their unique sound.
Evolution/Expansion
In 1997, the Murmurs released their sophomore album, “Pristine Smut.” This album showcased their growth as artists, as they expanded their sound by adding bassist Sheri Ozeki and drummer Sherri Solinger to the mix. The addition of a rhythm section allowed them to explore new musical territories and create a fuller, more dynamic sound. “Pristine Smut” received critical acclaim and further solidified the Murmurs’ position in the alternative pop realm.
Continued Success… Blender and Beyond
Building on their previous successes, the Murmurs released their third studio album, “Blender,” in 1998. This album displayed their continued evolution as songwriters and performers, incorporating elements of rock and electronic music into their sound. Tracks like “Smash” and “Misfit” showcased their versatility and cemented their reputation as a force to be reckoned with in the alternative pop scene.
What are they up to now?
Heather Reid
After a decade as “the murmurs,” Heather Reid (previously known as Heather Grody) and her bandmate, Leisha Hailey, transformed themselves into the band GUSH. They secured a residency at LA’s Spaceland and signed a development deal with Gary Gersh of Strummer Recordings. Heather later pursued musical theater and created a successful musical called “Dear Bernard.” Although international touring funds were not raised in time, the musical gained attention and Heather became a professional songwriter, contributing to Shakira’s hit song, “Don’t Bother” (in collaboration with Leisha Hailey). She then formed the band REDCAR with Jon Skibic and released the album “Can’t Be Stopped.”
Heather also achieved success as a solo artist with her album “Cross Words” and released the single “Right Here Right Now” in 2020. Currently, she focuses on studio work, composing for various media, and is involved in the development of two new musicals, including a collaboration with Regina Corrado.
Leisha Hailey
Leisha Hailey made her television debut in 1996 on Boy Meets World and was cast in her first major film role in 1997’s “All Over Me”. From 2004 to 2009, she portrayed Alice Pieszecki on The L Word. She was set to star in a spinoff called The Farm but it was not picked up.
In 2005, Hailey founded Marfa Records, and formed the electropop duo “Uh Huh Her” with Camila Grey and released the EP “I See Red.” Hailey has appeared in Yoplait and BMW commercials, and was named spokesperson for Olivia Cruises, and starred in the film “La Cucina” and the thriller, “Fertile Ground.” In 2015, she guest-starred on “Supernatural” as Amelia Novak. Leisha Hailey also has a podcast called, “Pants” which she co-hosts with ex- L Word co-star, Kate Moennig.
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