Eddie Murphy Reveals His Ultimate Music Legends and All-Time Favorite Band

While Eddie Murphy is best known for his comedic genius and blockbuster films, his passion for music runs deep. Despite only releasing three albums, Murphy has spent countless hours in the studio, recording far more tracks than most actors who dabble in music. He admits that most of his work will likely never see the light of day, joking that he’s content to keep his recordings private—at least for now. Murphy has collaborated with legends like Ernie Isley, B.B. King, Sly Stone, and Paul McCartney, but none of these sessions have been released to the public. He once said he could drop an album in any genre except heavy metal, with unreleased tracks spanning everything from country to jazz. Murphy even quipped that these songs might only come out after he’s gone, and he’s perfectly fine with that.

For now, Murphy’s musical legacy is defined by his 1985 hit “Party All the Time,” which remains a fan favorite decades later. His brief foray into reggae with tracks like “Oh Jah Jah” and “Red Light” (featuring Snoop Dogg) may have raised eyebrows, but it’s clear that music has always been a central part of his life, even if he prefers to keep most of it behind closed doors.

Musical Heroes and Lifelong Influences

Murphy’s love for music began early, and he’s never been shy about naming his idols. He’s called Elvis Presley the “greatest entertainer who ever lived,” a sentiment shared by many. Murphy’s admiration for Michael Jackson runs just as deep, describing him as the “most talented musician and artist that ever lived.” These aren’t controversial picks, but they speak to the impact these artists had on Murphy’s own creative journey.

His friendships with musical icons have only fueled his appreciation for the art form. Yet, when it comes to the question of the greatest band ever, Murphy’s answer is as classic as it gets.

The Band That Changed Everything

When asked to name the most influential group in music history, Murphy didn’t hesitate.

“The Beatles,”

he told Billboard.

“The very first song in my memory is ‘Do You Want to Know a Secret?’ For years, I thought John was singing that song, but then I realized it was George. I remember standing by a radio and just listening to that song. Growing up, I liked all the stuff that everyone else was listening to, like Motown, but the biggest group of all was The Beatles.”

It’s hardly surprising that someone who grew up in the early 1960s would hold The Beatles in such high regard. Their influence has spanned generations, and Murphy’s story is just one of many that highlight their lasting legacy. John, Paul, George, and Ringo remain cultural icons, their music as relevant today as it was decades ago.

Defining the Greatest Acts

For Murphy, three names stand above the rest in the world of music: Elvis Presley, Michael Jackson, and The Beatles. While his choices may not shock anyone, they reflect the enduring power of these artists to inspire and shape the musical landscape. Murphy’s reverence for these legends is clear, and his own musical journey—though mostly hidden from public view—has been shaped by their groundbreaking work.