Blue Note Records Announces Dave McMurray’s New Album I LOVE LIFE even when I’m hurting

Blue Note Records Announces Dave McMurray’s New Album I LOVE LIFE even when I’m hurting
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Saxophonist Dave McMurray has released his new Blue Note Records album I LOVE LIFE even when I’m hurting, a work that affirms his unshakeable spirit and celebrates both his hometown of Detroit and the many musicians who have shaped his journey. Co-produced by McMurray and longtime collaborator Don Was, the project was recorded at Rustbelt Studios in Royal Oak, Michigan, and features an exceptional lineup of Detroit artists including bassists Was and Ibrahim Jones, keyboardists Luis Resto and Maurice O’Neal, guitarist Wayne Gerard, drummer Jeff Canady, percussionist Mahindi Masai, and vocalist Herschel Boone.

The album’s title grew out of a profound conversation about a friend who had succumbed to illness and isolation. Struck by the sorrow of that story, McMurray responded with a declaration of resilience: “Man, I love life even when I’m hurting.” He wrote the phrase down immediately, realizing how deeply it resonated. “That ended up being the album title,” he explains, “because I built songs around that idea—songs about positivity.”

McMurray composed six of the album’s nine tracks, each radiating soulful melody, emotional directness, and irresistible groove. The remaining selections are three carefully chosen covers: Yusef Lateef’s “The Plum Blossom,” The Grateful Dead’s “The Wheel,” and a warmly expressive take on Al Jarreau’s “We Got By,” featuring vocals by Kem.
“Making this album was such a cool project,” McMurray reflects, “because everyone on it is someone I love.”
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