JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – R&B legend Shirley Murdock is heading back to Jacksonville — and this time, she’s sharing the stage with music royalty.
The “As We Lay” singer is joining the iconic Isley Brothers for what’s being billed as one of the most soulful concerts of the summer. Murdock said returning to Jacksonville feels like coming home.
Recommended Videos
“Oh my God, it’s awesome. Just to be able to sing for my fans here — and then to grace the stage with the legendary Isley Brothers — it’s mind-blowing,” Murdock said. “Jacksonville, y’all get ready!”
The Dayton, Ohio, native rose to fame in the mid-1980s with her powerful vocals and heartfelt storytelling. She’s known for blending gospel, R&B and soul in a way that connects with generations of fans. That blend, she says, is intentional.
“I always promised God I would make room for Him,” Murdock said. “So I’m always inspired to sing a song of inspiration to help somebody, because people are going through things in their life. So not only do I want you entertained, but I want you to be inspired as well. So I’m really happy to have the opportunity to do that.”
Her breakout hit, “As We Lay,” remains one of the most requested tracks on quiet storm radio formats across the country — and it’s a staple in every live performance.
“People think Kelly Price was the first to remake it, but I actually re-recorded it first,” Murdock said, referencing her late producer, Roger Troutman and his brother. “When I was approached to do it, I was like, Well, wait a minute, I don’t want to sing a song about cheating. I said, if I’m gonna do this song, I need to add this to the song. And what I added was - ‘We should have counted up the cost, but instead, we got lost in the second in the minute.’ to remind folks that every decision comes with consequences.”
Murdock also reflected on her love for Jacksonville’s fans — and its food. She said she never visits without getting a tray of garlic crabs and shrimp.
“Just give me a big T-shirt and some newspaper and I’m good to go,” she laughed. “There’s nothing like Jacksonville’s seafood.”
She said she plans to hit her favorite local spots, like the Crab Shack, or anywhere a promoter brings her that garlic crab tray she loves so much.
As for what keeps her going after more than four decades in the music industry? Gratitude.
“There are a lot of talented people out there who may never get a chance to do what it is that I do, and because I have been graced with the opportunity, like I said, I feel like I owe, said Murdock. So I am like on fire to give you everything that I got. To let you know how, first of all, to God, how appreciative I am for the gift and the opportunity to still be doing it after all these years. I want to give you the best that I got.”
Jacksonville fans can expect a night filled with classic hits, soul-stirring vocals and messages of love and healing.
“Get your tickets, baby,” Murdock said. “You don’t want to be the one who missed this show.”