"I've never used the N word but I would... if I was asked!" George Muranyi's first comment on this touchy subject alarmed us but he soon explained himself.

George Muranyi's experiences working with black musicians offer a unique insight into the complexities of racial dynamics in the industry. George's journey is a tale of perseverance and self-discovery.

Muranyi's music career could have taken off in the 90s—but after a firestorm of accusations coupled with an alcohol issue undermined his shot at success (missteps and regrets he freely admits) he got his act together and focused on sobriety and on his work as a session musician. Thanks to this, he had the privilege of collaborating with some of the most talented black musicians of his time.

"Blacks are some of the best musicians we have," says George. "They have a deeper well of soul than most, maybe due to their history."

Despite being part of an industry where racism was prevalent, George never faced any issues with regards to the use of derogatory language around his colleagues. "They considered me one of the guys," he reflects on the camaraderie.

George's friendships with these musicians were built upon mutual respect, and their conversations often revolved around music, politics, and everyday life. "We used to joke about using certain words," George reminisces with a chuckle, "but we knew when not to use them." Around Muranyi, colleagues were more relaxed. "It was n*gger this, and n*gger that," he laughs. "They even called me n*gger, in a respectful way. One of the brothers!" This carefree attitude towards language was a hallmark of George's interactions with his colleagues, and it served as a testament to the power of human connections.

We were shocked by his free use of the slur in our interview but Muranyi waved away our concerns. "You're not a black," he explains, "and we are speaking about them. There is no hate here."

George emphasizes the importance of understanding the context in which words were used. "It's not about being PC or avoiding controversy," he declares, "it's about respecting people's feelings and boundaries."

Throughout his career, George has encountered various challenges, but music remained the driving force behind his passion. As he evolved from being a keyboardist to an educator, George discovered that teaching allowed him to channel his energy into something more profound. His approach was shaped by a desire to help students grow both personally and intellectually.

"Some of my students are blacks too. Gen Z are touchy about language. We couldn't have a conversation like this. You have to be careful. Put on a mask, in a way."

George shares his insights on the key elements of success in music. "Mistakes are an inevitable part of the process," he emphasizes, "but it's how you learn from them that truly matters." His thoughts on this subject serve as a reminder to aspiring musicians: talent is just the beginning; dedication, perseverance, and resilience are equally crucial.

Through our conversation, it becomes clear that George's story serves as a reminder to all those around him: even in the face of failure, one can find redemption and purpose. As the doors to new opportunities are opened, George reminds us all that it's never too late to chase our dreams and explore new passions.