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Biography

**Chet Faker**

When Nick Murphy released "Built on Glass" in 2014 under his Chet Faker moniker, he delivered what many consider to be a masterpiece of modern electronic soul. The album stands as a testament to Murphy's ability to blend intimate vulnerability with sophisticated production, creating a sonic landscape that feels both futuristic and deeply rooted in classic R&B traditions. Tracks like "Talk Is Cheap" and "Gold" showcase his distinctive falsetto floating over minimalist beats and analog synthesizers, while the album's cohesive flow demonstrates an artist at the peak of his creative powers. "Built on Glass" not only established Chet Faker as a major force in the electronic music scene but also proved that bedroom production could compete with major label polish when guided by genuine artistic vision.

Born Nicholas James Murphy in Melbourne, Australia, in 1988, the future Chet Faker grew up in a musical household that fostered his early interest in both traditional and contemporary sounds. His stage name pays homage to jazz legend Chet Baker, though Murphy's musical DNA draws equally from electronic pioneers like Burial and James Blake, as well as classic soul artists such as Marvin Gaye and Bill Withers. This eclectic foundation would prove crucial in developing his signature sound – a hypnotic blend of electronic production, live instrumentation, and emotionally charged vocals that defies easy categorization.

Murphy's journey began in earnest with his 2012 EP "Thinking in Textures," which introduced the world to Chet Faker's distinctive aesthetic. The release caught the attention of both critics and fans, but it was his cover of Blackstreet's "No Diggity" that truly announced his arrival. The track, with its stripped-down arrangement and Murphy's haunting vocal interpretation, became a viral sensation and demonstrated his ability to completely reimagine familiar material. This success led to collaborations with fellow Australian electronic artists and eventually caught the ear of international tastemakers.

The period following "Built on Glass" saw Chet Faker evolve from underground darling to festival headliner. His live performances became legendary affairs, featuring Murphy surrounded by analog synthesizers, drum machines, and various instruments, creating lush soundscapes that translated his studio intimacy to larger venues. The visual component of his performances, often featuring moody lighting and Murphy's charismatic stage presence, helped establish him as one of electronic music's most compelling live acts.

Throughout his career as Chet Faker, Murphy released several EPs and singles that further cemented his reputation as an innovator. Tracks like "1998" and collaborations with artists such as Flume and Marcus Marr showcased his versatility and willingness to push boundaries. His music videos, particularly the mesmerizing clip for "Gold" featuring roller-skating dancers, became cultural phenomena in their own right, accumulating millions of views and inspiring countless imitations.

Murphy's achievements under the Chet Faker name include multiple ARIA Awards, international chart success, and critical acclaim from publications worldwide. His influence on the electronic music landscape cannot be overstated – he helped popularize the "future soul" movement and inspired countless bedroom producers to explore the intersection of electronic and organic sounds. Artists across genres have cited his work as influential, and his production techniques have been widely studied and emulated.

In a surprising move that shocked fans and industry observers alike, Murphy announced in 2016 that he would be retiring the Chet Faker name to focus on releasing music under his real name. This decision reflected his desire for artistic authenticity and marked the end of an era for one of electronic music's most beloved projects. His subsequent releases as Nick Murphy have explored different sonic territories, including more guitar-driven compositions and experimental arrangements.

The legacy of Chet Faker extends far beyond album sales and streaming numbers. Murphy created a template for how electronic music could be both intellectually sophisticated and emotionally resonant, proving that laptop production could achieve the same intimacy as traditional singer-songwriter fare. His influence can be heard in the work of countless contemporary artists who blend electronic and organic elements, and "Built on Glass" remains a touchstone for anyone interested in the possibilities of modern soul music. While the Chet Faker chapter may be closed, its impact on electronic music and popular culture continues to resonate, ensuring that Nick Murphy's alter ego will be remembered as one of the most important and innovative artists of the 2010s.