JJ Murphy is a Denver-based guitarist and composer whose music blends modern jazz improvisation with the storytelling traditions of folk and the expansive textures of cinematic soundscapes. Known for his lyrical guitar voice and wide-ranging musical versatility, Murphy has worked with artists including Natalie Cressman, Todd Smallie, Shawn Eckels, Ryan Connors, Ivan Neville, George Porter Jr., and Chali 2na. In the Denver jazz scene he has also appeared on the same bill as guitar legends Bill Frisell and John Scofield. Through touring with The Sweet Lillies and performing across the country, he has developed a reputation as a dynamic collaborator equally comfortable in jazz, Americana, and improvisational music. Earlier in his career Murphy spent time living and working in Nashville, recording in many of the city’s major studios, and will soon perform alongside John Popper.

In 2025, Murphy released 10ft Tall Children’s Choir, a fully original, ensemble-driven album featuring Braxton Kahn, Chantil Dukart, Wyatt Walker Wear, Nate Miller, and producer Tom Amend. His upcoming Octave Records release, Sleep Paralysis, explores surreal sonic landscapes through his trio with bassist Wyatt Walker Wear and drummer Braxton Kahn, combining hi-fidelity production with dreamlike improvisation. Alongside the trio, Murphy is also developing a solo guitar project that highlights the hypnotic textures and intimate storytelling possible with just six strings.

Active as both a performer and educator, Murphy balances the stage with a passion for sharing music through teaching and mentorship, working with students of all ages and skill levels. With a style that is both hypnotic and deeply expressive, he continues to push the boundaries of modern guitar music—equally at home in intimate solo performances, adventurous trio explorations, and full-ensemble collaborations.

“JJ is an inspiring guitarist well versed in many styles, but he made me fall in love with blues and slide guitar all over again,” Dave Abear (Melvin Seals and JGB).

Nashville based producer and multi-instrumentalist, Ryan Connors (Hozier), defines  Murphy's style as, “the blues-inspired rawness of Eric Clapton with the jazz vocabulary and sensitivity of Bill Frisell.”  

Kristian Matsson (Tallest Man on Earth) and J.J. Murphy backstage at the Bluebird Festival in Boulder, CO. 2025