Words: Theo Thompson, Images: Lorcan Berg
Ell Murphy is a name that has become synonymous with raw talent, determination and a commitment to shaping the UK’s dance music scene. A producer, vocalist and DJ, Murphy’s journey is not just about the music she creates but the bridges she builds within the industry, particularly for women striving to make their mark. Her story is a vibrant narrative shaped by personal passion, powerful performances and an unrelenting drive to push boundaries; both in her music and in the way the industry perceives her.
Ell’s love affair with music began long before she entered the DJ booth. Growing up in the heart of the UK’s ‘90s dance culture, she fondly recalls songs like Livin’ Joy’s ‘Dreamer’ soundtracking her youth. “When I was like 11 and 12, the music in the charts was the real peak of UK dance music,” she recalls, her voice brimming with nostalgia. This was the era when the likes of house and garage infiltrated the mainstream, shaping her musical identity from an early age.
“I was always singing… writing songs from like eight or nine,” she reflects, revealing a natural inclination toward crafting melodies and lyrics. Ell’s musical journey began in her early twenties with a punk band, which she eventually left to explore an R&B solo project, Only Girl. Yet it was the discovery of DJing that truly set her on the path she follows today. “I just got kind of obsessed with DJing,” she admits, laughing at the memory of her first gigs in an industrial unit in Tottenham, formally The Cause.
Ell’s eclectic tastes, from punk and R&B to garage and house, have cultivated a sound all her own. She effortlessly blends soulful melodies with the pulse of underground dance, creating tracks that feel as emotional as they do energetic. “I always knew I wanted to do something more soulful,” she explains, highlighting her desire to merge genres and create something uniquely hers. Her ability to seamlessly navigate between styles is a testament to her versatility, which has caught the attention of key tastemakers like Mixmag, Clash Magazine and BBC Radio 1.
A defining moment in her career came during the pandemic when she found herself connecting with the garage community. “There was this Facebook group called Shuffle’N’Swing… it was such a hub of connections,” she says, reminiscing about how these online spaces nurtured her growth as both a DJ and a producer. Collaborating with names like TSHA and Giulia Tess, her sound has continued to evolve, making her a standout figure in UK dance.
While Ell’s rise has been meteoric, it hasn’t been without its challenges. As a woman in a predominantly male industry, she has faced her fair share of doubt and resistance. “You have this constant battle as a creative… you’re not good enough,” she admits, her voice tinged with the frustration of years spent fighting for recognition. This battle often takes the form of gender bias, with female producers frequently having to prove their worth more than their male counterparts. “It riles me… why do you think that wouldn’t be possible for a woman?” her words charged with the kind of passion that fuels her fight for equality.
Her commitment to advocating for women in the scene is clear. “I would always go back and be like, ‘Oh, have you thought about putting this girl on?’” she says, emphasising the importance of diversifying lineups. “You should never just be like, I just make dance music… I’ll make any music with anyone if it’s a vibe,” she adds, her belief in the power of collaboration and inclusivity resonating throughout her work.
Despite the challenges, Ell remains optimistic about the future of music, especially in terms of creating safe, inclusive spaces for all. The feeling of empowerment she experiences when women fill the front row at her gigs is palpable. “When I do sets and I see all girls at the front… it just really is like so heart warming,” she says, underscoring her mission to foster an environment where everyone feels welcome. This sentiment was especially evident during her intimate launch party for the single ‘Need It’ at Jumbi in Peckham, an event where the atmosphere was as warm and inclusive as her music. The event, which featured new pressings of ‘Need It’, exemplified everything Ell stands for: community, joy and a deep connection to the music.
With ‘Need It’, a track that blends the energy of ‘90s house with modern-day soul, Ell has once again demonstrated her ability to push the envelope. The track, which has already been featured on BBC Radio 1 and Capital Dance, is a perfect example of her blend of raw, emotional lyrics and club-ready production. “I wanted to create a minimal yet powerful song,” she says, describing the production process with Medlar. The song’s emotional depth, paired with its infectious groove, is a reflection of Ell’s dedication to making music that moves both the heart and the feet.
Looking to the future, Ell remains committed to evolving as an artist. “I’ll be doing it till I’m a granny,” she laughs, speaking to her lifelong love for music. Her goal is to continue collaborating while also nurturing her own solo projects. “What have I got to give people that’s different?” she muses, always seeking new ways to connect with her audience.
Ell Murphy is more than just a sonic virtuoso. She is a symbol of resilience, creativity and the power of community. As she continues to break down barriers and build spaces where all are welcome, she remains a vital force in the UK dance scene. A force we’re lucky to have.
Ell’s single ‘Need It’ is out now via Greco Roman. Stay tuned for more releases and catch her back at Jumbi on the 31st January 2025.
LISTEN HERE and find more of Ell’s work HERE
