Justin Guillermo Caicedo

Murph was a vibrant and unstoppable force in the world of music. A drummer at heart, Murph’s passion for his craft began in a modest shed in his backyard, where, as a young boy, he first dreamed of becoming a “real” drummer. What started as a simple hobby soon became a lifelong obsession. Murph’s dedication to perfecting his skills never wavered, and he poured his heart into drumming every day, determined to make it his life's work.

At 17, Murph launched his professional career, joining the local band Probable Cauz. Despite being too young to legally enter the venues where he played, his love for music was undeniable. Over the years, he would go on to perform in countless bands, spanning genres from blues to pop, punk rock to metal, and Americana to soul. Murph’s ability to blend his style into any musical project made him a sought-after collaborator, and his versatility in the studio and on stage earned him a reputation as a standout drummer.

Murph’s musical journey included recording and touring with a diverse array of artists, such as Spacewolf, Spacer, Supercrush, Naught, Tuff Luvs, Framing the Red, Mr. Sipp, Grady Champion, Liz Stroud, Brian Fuente, Jason Turner Band, 5th Wolf and many more. Throughout his career, he contributed to over 60+ recording projects, leaving his mark on the music world with every beat.

For the past decade, Murph served as a session drummer and Assistant Engineer at Malaco Records, a renowned studio in Jackson, MS, where he worked with some of the most influential artists in the industry including his friend, Kent Bruce. He also made a difference in his community as the Musical Director for Skate MS, a non-profit promoting healthy lifestyles through skating. Murph’s teaching legacy included time as a percussionist and accompanist at Belhaven University, and he was also a judge for Guitar Center’s annual “Drum-off” competition, mentoring and inspiring future generations of drummers.

Murph’s influences were the greats—Tony Williams, John Bonham, Neal Peart, Billy Cobham—and he approached his drumming with a raw, honest style that rejected studio trickery. He was known for his powerful and unpretentious musicality, and his commitment to the art form earned him a place among his contemporary counterparts.

Murph is survived by his mother, Helen Jeanette Caicedo; his brother, William Corey Caicedo; his uncle, Max Renfroe; his aunt, Patrice Murphy; and his great-aunt, Carolyn Bradley. He was preceded in death by his father, Ramiro Caicedo; and his grandparents, Van Max and Evelyn Renfroe, and O.B. and Rosa Reid.

Murph’s legacy lives on through his music, his dedication to his craft, and the countless lives he touched along the way. His spirit will continue to resonate through the rhythms he left behind, and he will be deeply missed by all who knew him—whether as a friend, fellow musician, a fan, or someone who shared in his love of life and music. Murph’s heartbeat will forever echo in the beats he played.

Friends and family are invited to attend Murph-a-palooza: A tribute to Murph, Sunday, December 15, 2024, at Hal & Mal’s Red Room from 2 pm – 6 pm in Jackson, MS. This event is open to the public in lieu of a funeral.