Chris ‘CM’ Murphy, the long-time manager of INXS and founder of Murphy Petrol Group, has died in Australia following a battle with Mantle Cell Lymphoma. He was 66.
A statement from Murphy Petrol Group issued today (January 16) read: “It is with great sadness that Caroline Murphy and family confirm that Christopher (CM) Mark Murphy, Chairman of Murphy Petrol Group has today passed away peacefully at his beloved Ballina property ‘Sugar Beach Ranch’ surrounded by his family.
“CM celebrated an illustrious career over 40 years and made an incredible impact on the global music and entertainment industry. Best known for taking his ‘band of brothers’ INXS to worldwide stardom, CM Murphy influenced the lives of many around the globe with his endless passion and drive. He will be greatly missed.”
INXS said in a statement: “It is with great sadness that the remaining members of INXS mourn the passing of our brother, Chris Murphy. Without Chris’s vision, passion and hard work, the INXS story would be totally different.
“Chris’s star burned very bright and we celebrate a life well lived and send all our love to his family. Garry, Andrew, Tim, Jon and Kirk.”
And Sarah, Lachlan and Molly Buckley from the band The Buckleys, whom Murphy signed in 2018, said: “Chris has been our guardian angel from the day we met him and he will continue to be for the rest of our lives.
“As with everyone who was so blessed to have known him – the strength, passion, guidance and love he ignites is forever lasting. We are so grateful to have walked this earth with him, our best friend, greatest champion and mentor. His spirit and light will forever live within and around us.”
Murphy is survived by his wife Caroline, children Stevey, Jeri, Jack, Louis and Charlie and grandchildren Asher, Samantha, Bella, Axel, Harley and Reuben. In addition, he is survived by his mother Janice and sisters Charne and Tanya.
The statement from Murphy Petrol Group continued: “As well as his love of the music and entertainment business, CM was passionate about agriculture, horse breeding, racing pigeons, surfing and rugby. His competitive spirit seen on the polo field and the ice hockey rink was alive right to the end as he fought Mantle Cell Lymphoma.”
“The family have asked that in lieu of flowers that trees are gifted from to create an everlasting and ever-growing memorial at Chris’ beloved Ballina property.”
For further information on that memorial, please contact info@murphypetrolgroup.com
Murphy Petrol Group includes the Murphy-founded Murphy Rights Management.Music Business Worldwide