Bio
Born at a reasonably young age, Marlon Murdock found himself, yet again, in just a completely different world.
He was a quiet observer, artistic at heart, with those penetrating blue eyes, and a curly blond mop.
He was born humming, that is, until he could talk… then he sang.
Invented songs of all kinds flowed freely, from the first second he awoke, to his last sleeping breath. As a 5 year old, in Hawaii, and as opinionated and independent as any adult, he decided to change his name. Obviously not exactly thrilled with the inability of his classmates, to pronounce his name correctly, he chose that his temporary title of identity: “Mawwlon” just didn’t quite fit his creative nature. So, from that moment on, he was known by his middle name, “Bentley”, which left much room, into which he could grow, creatively and artistically.
Among countless hours of beach-combing, and swimming in the ocean, he was surprisingly diagnosed with Legg-Perthes-Disease. A disease that causes the hip socket to slow or cease its normal growth, leaving one leg considerably shorter than the other. As an experimental procedure, at that time, he was issued a leg-brace, that forced both legs out into a straddle- osition. And though he was still able to walk and funtion, he became an easy target for all kinds of discrimination.
For the following couple of years, he wore that brace every single day, with a knowledge that not only was he different, but that he was special, and that this “Magically Bionic Brace”, that “no one else was lucky enough to wear”, would someday leave him stronger than ever before. His Angel-Mother assured him of the soon arrival of his recovery, knowing in detail, that many children were left crippled by this disease, in those days.
Though limited physically, he did not allow it to slow him down. He learned how to run, like a duck, and how to entertain himself in the classroom, when he wasn’t welcome with the other kids at recess. And just as he knew, deep down, the brace was eventually removed, 
leaving him whole, and complete, and more able than ever, to run like any other crazy little Albino-Hawaiian-Monkey.
Bentley came from a united family of 9 kids, where he enjoyed the company of the greatest friendships of his life. Anything great that he has become, or ever will become, he owes to the infinitely unconditional love of his parents and all of his siblings. Theirs’ was a home where love really did rule.
Music was always a fundamental part of his family, growing up. There were always opportunities to participate in all kinds of chiors, groups, performances, and plays. He was always willing for a shot at something new. With the musical foundation that weekly church attendance fostered, he also broadened that horizon with an education in the Suzuki Method of playing by ear, on the piano.
After 5 years of piano instruction, and proper training of the ear, he picked up one of his dad’s classical guitars from Brasil. He was immediately entranced, yet challenged at the idea of a brand new sound. From age 11 to present… (17 years)… He travelled, lived and loved his life, with a guitar constantly nearby. Many nights were spent experimenting with those 6… and sometimes 5 or 4 strings. Some of his most creative moments, were after he had broken a few strings, and was forced to find other avenues of producing the sound that he needed. He was hooked and it was hooked to him… Literally.
While serving a mission for his church, 2 years were spent, visiting the people of Mexico, teaching simple gospel truths, and serving in every way possible… With a guitar strapped to his back. His mission was partially funded by the sales of his first two cds: “Listen” & “Meanderings”, which he recorded in years previously, in Utah.
He performed everywhere he possibly could, using it as a tool to teach children of all ages, about God, truth, families, and sometimes, just jammin’ the classics… Like “Hotel California”. He left with a larger appreciation for the humble people of Mexico, Simple Gospel Truths, and Musical vibration in general.
Bentley resides in San Luis Obispo, California, where he has lived for the past year. He continues his contribution to the music industry, with wholesome, uplifting and inspiring new music.
Thanks For Listening.
www.BentleyMurdock.com
