Joe Murphy, the bassist, vocalist, and producer of the rock band Koopa, has died at the age of 46. His sister confirmed the news in a heartfelt Facebook post, writing: "For those who knew him, it breaks my heart to say that my big brother, Joe Murphy has passed away. Love you big bro."
Historic Chart Achievement
Koopa, formed in the early 2000s by Joe alongside brothers Stu and Ollie Cooper, made history in 2007 by becoming the first unsigned act to crack the UK Top 40 solely through digital downloads. Their single "Blag, Steal & Borrow" entered the chart at number 31, marking the first time a band without a record label achieved such a feat. From 2004 to 2007, the band toured extensively across the UK and released two singles via Mad Cow Records, including "No Trend," which reached No. 71 on the UK Singles Chart.
World Cup Track and Festival Appearance
In 2006, Koopa released "Stand Up 4 England," a World Cup-themed track featured on the re-release of "England (The Album)." The following year, the band supported at the Isle of Wight Festival. Koopa also won two awards at the Glasswerk New Music Awards in 2007.
Car Crash and Cardiac Arrest
In June 2021, Murphy suffered a cardiac arrest while driving on Mersea Road in Colchester, leading to a devastating car crash. He was rushed to hospital in a life-threatening condition and spent an extended period in intensive care.
Tributes Pour In
Tributes have flooded social media following Murphy's death. Essex band The Broken Johnny's posted: "Absolutely gutted to hear of the passing of local legend Joe Murphy from the band Koopa. Grew up with these guys and saw them supporting Special Duties at Colchester Arts Centre before they went off to America. May Joe Rest In Peace now."
Essex Rocks Creative CIC shared: "We've left it for a few days so everyone can digest the sad information that our friend Joe Murphy has passed on. Joe and his band Koopa were a massive part of our formative years as promoters in the mid 2000s and we feel privileged to have known him on a personal level and worked with him as a musician. Keep playing those riffs Joe. We love you."
