Kent Murphy's (also known as “Ayekplaydat”) musical journey is a testament to the power of family and the enduring influence of childhood experiences. Born into a musical household, Kent was surrounded by the sounds of his parents' compositions and his siblings' performances from a young age. With a father who was a music composer and producer and a mother who was a singer, Kent's early years were filled with melodies, harmonies, and the joy of making music together.
Raised alongside three talented siblings, Kent's musical upbringing was nothing short of extraordinary. From impromptu jam sessions in their living room to collaborating on original compositions and projects, music was more than just a hobby—it was a way of life for the Murphy family. As Kent's musical journey unfolded, his siblings became not only his peers but also his collaborators and confidants, sharing a common love for music and inspiring each other to reach new heights of creativity.
With a deep-rooted passion for music instilled in him from an early age, Kent began his formal musical training at the age of five, taking piano lessons and later playing cello in orchestra and clarinet in band throughout his school years. However, it was his discovery of music production at the age of 17 that truly ignited his passion for creating music. Opting to pursue music production over college basketball, Kent found himself drawn to the studio, where he spent countless hours honing his craft and exploring new sounds and techniques.
Throughout his career, Kent has drawn inspiration from a diverse range of musical influences, from the iconic compositions of John Williams to the innovative productions of The Neptunes and the cinematic scores of Hans Zimmer. His eclectic musical tastes and extensive training have equipped him with a unique perspective and a versatile skill set that sets him apart in the industry.
Today, Kent Murphy is a respected music producer, composer, and educator based in Los Angeles, California. With over 300 TV and film music placements to his name, as well as a track record of producing for top recording artists and labels, Kent's work has earned him recognition and acclaim in the music industry. He has produced on Pierce Freelon’s Grammy-nominated album “Black To The Future”, scored music for film, and is currently writing and producing for some of the industry's top recording artists.
In addition to his work in music production, Kent is passionate about music education and mentoring the next generation of aspiring musicians. He offers virtual classes and workshops, providing aspiring musicians with the tools and knowledge they need to succeed in the industry. Kent's dedication to his craft, combined with his commitment to fostering creativity and innovation, continues to make him a driving force in the music industry and a beloved mentor to aspiring musicians worldwide.
Kent has shared his expertise as a guest lecturer at various universities, including California Lutheran University and UNC Chapel Hill. He has also represented the USA in performing at the very first World Day for African and Afro-descendant Culture in Costa Rica, organized by UNESCO. Additionally, Kent has worked with Fortune 500 companies such as Southern California Edison, providing his musical talents for corporate projects and events. With a diverse range of experiences and a passion for music that knows no bounds, Kent Murphy is truly a force to be reckoned with in the world of music production and education.