John Martyn, born Iain David McGeachy OBE on September 11, 1948, was a British singer-songwriter and guitarist whose career spanned four decades. With a reputation for his soulful voice and innovative guitar playing, Martyn began his musical journey in the London folk scene in the late 1960s. His early work, which includes albums like "Bless the Weather" and "Solid Air," the latter of which is dedicated to his friend, fellow musician Nick Drake, blends folk traditions with jazz and blues influences, showcasing his distinctive use of acoustic guitar and echoplex effects.

Martyn's music evolved over the years, incorporating elements of rock, funk, and the sounds of sizzling synthesisers—most evident in works like “Sapphire” and the ambitiously produced “Glorious Fool.” Despite not achieving widespread mainstream success, his influence among musicians was profound, with Phil Collins, Eric Clapton, and David Gilmour citing him as an inspiration. His later live performances, captured in albums such as "The Smiling Stranger In Bremen" (recorded live in 1983), display a mature artist whose personal tumults and health issues deepened his emotive delivery and maverick appeal. John Martyn was made an OBE in 2009, not long before his death on January 29 of that year, a testament to his significant contribution to British music. His legacy continues to inspire and his music remains a captivating blend of genre-defying artistry.

Genres

British Folk

Psychedelic Folk

Singer-songwriter

Related Artists

Nick Drake

Van Morrison

Bert Jansch

Richard Thompson

Joni Mitchell

Tim Buckley

Fairport Convention

Ralph McTell

Bon Iver

James Taylor

Jeff Buckley

Fleet Foxes

Latest Release

Live At Rockpalast 1978

John Martyn

Album - 12 Tracks - Released July 26, 2024