Musical Genesis and Lyrical Landscapes
One fan inquired about the lyrical origins of “In The Night,” prompting a typically cryptic yet thought-provoking response from Murphy: “You tell me what they mean.” This sets the tone for an engaging exploration of his artistic intentions, where interpretation is often left to the discerning listener. Addressing the notion of lyrical difficulty in his solo career, Murphy dismisses it outright, stating, “Lyrics have never been a problem for me,” underscoring his innate ability to weave words into his musical tapestry.
Peter Murphy on stage
The roots of his extraordinary musical talent are traced back to his upbringing, revealing a household immersed in the sounds of the 60s. Being the youngest of seven siblings, all significantly older, exposed him to a “full gamut of 60s music,” nurturing his vocal development from a young age. He recounts singing along to artists like Bolan and Bowie, honing his baritone voice by emulating their diverse vocal ranges. Beyond Bowie, Murphy cites Bolan, Lennon, Shirley Bassey, and Jagger as his major singing influences, a diverse collection that hints at the eclectic nature of his own musical style.
Style, Stagecraft, and Performance
Murphy’s distinctive dark style emerged early, solidifying around the age of 13. This inherent inclination towards a unique aesthetic predates his musical career, suggesting it’s an intrinsic part of his artistic identity. Reflecting on the transformative period when Daniel Ash invited him to join Bauhaus, Murphy describes a rapid metamorphosis. He embraced the “slim Pixie thin and forlorn” image, adopting black hair, makeup, and striking attire, even in everyday life. This commitment to his persona, influenced by Bowie’s authenticity, was a conscious choice to embody his artistic expression fully.
When questioned about the difference between outdoor daylight concerts and intimate nighttime club performances, “peter answers” with the insight of a seasoned performer. He notes that daylight concerts, devoid of elaborate lighting, offer a “more direct way of performing and connecting to the crowd,” stripping away artifice and emphasizing the raw energy of the music. His powerful stage presence, often described as trance-like, is revealed to be self-taught, stemming from a “dancer theatre person inside me,” highlighting the performative aspect of his musical expression.
Art, Inspiration, and Personal Reflections
Beyond music, visual art plays a significant role in Murphy’s creative life. When asked about lessons gleaned from painting, he downplays any complex interpretations, stating simply, “I’m a rock ıcon painting things. That’s all.” This humble self-description belies the depth of his artistic pursuits, suggesting a playful detachment from over-intellectualizing his creative process. However, he acknowledges that a painting by Carlos Sosa served as the inspiration for the narrative in “Indigo Eyes,” demonstrating the interconnectedness of his visual and musical worlds.
“Peter answers” a range of more personal questions with equal intrigue. He playfully lists “Flying. Healing bats. Javelin throwing” as projects he wished he had pursued, showcasing a whimsical side to his personality. Addressing a fan’s veganism inquiry, he clarifies his dietary preferences as leaning towards “local produce all meats except pork salads sauces…” and reveals himself to be “a good cook,” offering a glimpse into his life beyond the stage.
Decoding the Enigma
Fans often seek to decipher the meanings behind Murphy’s lyrics. Regarding “Cuts You Up,” often mistaken as a love song, he confirms its deeper spiritual dimension, aligning with a fan’s interpretation of the opening lines as representing “higher consciousness uplift[ing] us.” Murphy affirms this interpretation as “close enough,” adding that it is “simultaneously a love song and ode to the beloved partner guiding me on the way,” revealing layers of meaning within his work.
The unusual title “Lagartija Nick” is explained as a transformation from its original, more provocative title, “Bite My Hip,” changed in 1982 to reflect a “more S&M-orientated lyric/song,” offering insight into the evolution of his songwriting and thematic shifts over time. His affection for his cats, Pearl and Narin, surfaces in a charming anecdote. He “exhort[s] them with a ‘you are unbelievably smashing’,” revealing a tender and humorous side. A particularly “crazy” fan encounter involves a mysterious “Cat” who somehow located his hotel room in LA immediately upon his arrival, highlighting the sometimes-surreal nature of fame.
When asked about career alternatives, “peter answers” with “Theatre actor or director,” indicating a long-held passion for performance beyond music. He confirms his lyrical contribution to the “criminally underrated” Bauhaus album “Go Away White,” stating he wrote “mostly except for 2 or 3 songs.” The evocative song “Subway” is revealed to be about overcoming sadness, with the simple yet powerful message: “Don’t stay in your fallen or deep sad state.” Despite never meeting Lou Reed, Murphy recounts an auspicious encounter with Iggy Pop upon his first arrival in NYC, describing it as “portentous,” highlighting the serendipitous connections within the music world.
Conclusion: Peter Murphy’s Enduring Allure
Through these glimpses into “peter answers,” we gain a richer understanding of Peter Murphy as an artist and individual. His responses, often concise yet deeply suggestive, invite further contemplation and appreciation of his multifaceted creative output. From musical origins and stagecraft to personal reflections and artistic inspirations, this Q&A session illuminates the enduring allure of a true rock icon, leaving fans with a deeper connection to his enigmatic world.
