"Strong As I Need To Be" released in 2003 was Murali's second CD of original songs following the debut of Eyes Wide Open" in 1995. It represents further artistic growth in songwriting and diversity of grooves. This CD contains less blues and more funk and rock elements some of which can be attributed to the players Terry Hampton on drums and Karl Allweier on bass. Track Guide: 1) Strong As I Need To Be-soul/rock 2) Watching You-funk/rock blues 3) Hi Charlie, I Love You Charlie-song about Murali's son 4) You Don't Have to Wait-rock 5) Change is Gonna Come-upbeat take on Sam Cooke classic 6) Palestinian Eyes-written while playing Beirut, Lebanon 7) Strange Eyes-minor funk 8) Doin' It-Funk/Rock Fusion 9) Karl Rox-instrumental 10) Beautiful Morning-soul/R&B Al Green inspired mood 11) Ghana E-cover of a Willy Colon/Hector Lavoe favorite