Guess who?

Longer entries will be transferred to the Stories page..

I saw John perform in 1980 or 1981 at Essex University, Colchester, in the Student's Union. He had Phil Collins on drums and John Giblin on bass. Pretty awesome gig. It was before Phil Collins went solo and released Face Value.
I sat unknowingly with two friends with my back to Collins before the gig in the bar. He was with a woman and a couple of kids. I then, with my loud mouth, recoiled in shock at a leaflet saying John Martyn was being joined by Phil Collins. As a long time Genesis hater, I slagged off Genesis but applauded his work with Brand X and exclaimed that brilliant though he was, he needed to get a better band or go it alone. He left the bar shortly after.
I like to think in my own special way he took my advice and became the superstar he was. Of course, in my heart I know that's BS. But it's a good bar tale to tell...
Mark Brierley
UK - Monday, December 19, 2011 at 22:59:00 (CET)

Can't tell you the exact date, but John Martyn played a gig at our school (Maidenhead Grammar School), in the spring/ early summer of 1973. He was paid £50 for the privilige, and slept on the floor at one of the Upper Sixth form lad's houses!
Regards,
Phil Reid
UK - Saturday, November 12, 2011 at 00:32:22 (CET)

John did a gig at Liverpool University in 1980 or 1981. I was a student at the time but returned to my home town every weekend meeting up with mates at the Augustus John, a bar on the university campus.
We usually spent the night playing pool up until closing time. This particular evening the bar was packed out. Round about 8pm the bar emptied out, believe it or not, there was just me and my mates left in the pub. 10 minutes later three guys walked in and put their money down on the pool table to play the winner. We just got talking to these guys, and I said "We thought we were missing out on something, 10 minutes ago this place was packed out and now everyone has gone off to a gig next door. Any idea who is playing?" "Me," was the answer, he said he was John Martyn, we were non the wiser. He was possibly doing a one man show, but I think there was possibly a support act. That explains why John was in the bar and his fans were next door.
When they left we wished them luck. We saw a few bands at Liverpool Uni in the past, Climax Blues Band, Ian Gillan Band, Roy Wood, Heavy Metal Kids so you imagine where our taste is at!
Terry Newton
UK - Saturday, October 15, 2011 at 17:14:09 (CEST)

Would be interested if any one new the date of a gig that John Martyn played above the Carlisle pub in Hastings in what I recall was 1976.
I think it was a warm up a full UK or American tour.
It was a solo gig, in which he used the echoplex for the majority of the numbers.
At the age of 14 this was the first proper gig I had attended.
Ken Copsey
- Sunday, July 24, 2011 at 08:59:23 (CEST)

im a big john martyn fan and had the pleasure of seeing him at the john wilson theatre in airdrie,there was a beer festival in nearby motherwell that day and a few rowdie ignorants were there trying to giv jm a hard time but he shot them down with a few 1 liners anyhow after a few growls and stares from true jm fans they soon were told to shut up or they would be listening from the nearby monklands hospital,the lights dimmed again and as he started to play solid air i lit up a saft black 5 skinner(realy pungent smell)the bigman caught a whiff and stopped askin to the crowd whos got that, i shouts down here HOW, gies it was his reply, i was 4 rows away to the left i stood up and made my way to the front of the stage, handin him the small cigar he took a drag-keep it i said, i was going to anyway was his reply,going back to my seat amid choruses of laughter he took two long drags and then put it under the strings at the top of his guitar and procceded to play may you never, i tried to get in backstage after but two drunk arseholes were trying the same so security said no way but i had blagged the flyer of the wall and had took a cd along in the hope to maybe get it signed but were sent back to main hall,getin my jacket together the security boy approached and told me to give him the poster and cd,away he went and came back with both signed by the bigman,,,,the security man said he would have met me but he thought i was coming back for the doobie-whether thats true or not i believed him....my wee gift got me two favourite keepsakes..recently i found an old vcr tape in my loft of johns 50th birday gig in scotland..ive uploaded it on youtube under the title john martyn 50, go have a look youl not be dissapointed,thanx for readin my story ive dined out on it for years
johnny mc taggart <johnnyblueboy@hotmail.com>
hamilton, scotland - Saturday, July 23, 2011 at 23:20:32 (CEST)

I remember seeing him at Durham University on 4th December 1978 - Prior to playing, he was sat on the steps alone, wearing a black greatcoat, and had a crate of beer beside him, which he consumed, staggered off, and played the most amazing set I ever saw him play!
Saw him the following year 21st June 1979 at Glastonbury Fayre, where he drove across the field to the stage in his Volvo estate, with barrels of ale strapped to the roof, then he tapped off quite a few pints before playing!
I saw him other times when he was either too drunk/stoned to play. Once at Redcar Bowl, where he came on stage pissed, then smoked the biggest spliff seen by mankind and was then too out of it to play! Whatever, the man was a legend, and I loved him an his music dearly.
Ian Wallis
- Saturday, July 09, 2011 at 12:58:40 (CEST)

Not a lot going on this site.
Big Gus
Glasgow, Scotland - Monday, July 04, 2011 at 17:38:01 (CEST)

Webmaster: It depends on where and how you look. Check out the log files and the tweet ratio and I think you might want to reconsider.

Just been listening to Heaven and Earth,thought I'd try and post the link to the FB images (artworks inspired by the great man's work) as I think they're finally accessible by all...
http://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.1444653989487.2060307.1027256172
Ian Munday <Ian.Munday@utas.edu.au>
Hobart, Australia - Thursday, June 09, 2011 at 03:24:50 (CEST)

Saw him at Liverpool Uni in early 80's but had been a fan for many years, brilliant show and may have been with UK (the band); hard to remember. He asked if we had any requests and my friend shouted "My Old Man's A Dustman"! Half way through the next song he cut into it and then returned to complete the song. At one point he played guitar brilliantly with one hand. Sang every song perfecty. Sorely missed.
Philip Morrissey <philipmorrissey@hotmail.com>
Mcgaheysville VA, USA - Wednesday, June 08, 2011 at 01:34:11 (CEST)

Can anyone supply me with the chords John plays on 'Under My Wing' Many thanks. H.
Hampton <hcummings@freeolamail.com>
Chester, UK - Friday, June 03, 2011 at 13:41:27 (CEST)

A true original. For me, he belongs up there with Neil Young, Robbie Robertson, Pete Townshend and so many other wonderful songwriters. We'll never see his like again. What a legacy he left behind...
Richard East <blacky051070@aol.com>
Adelaide, Australia - Thursday, May 19, 2011 at 17:24:49 (CEST)

I was just wondering if there was any kind sould out there who has converted the video "Tell Them I'm Somebody Else" into DVD format? If so, I would be very eager to get a copy so please make contact with me. More than happy to pay for postage costs etc
Many Thanks
Mark Hulls <mark@hulls.com.au>
Melbourne, Australia - Wednesday, May 04, 2011 at 08:07:32 (CEST)

Just wanted to say that more than two years on I'm still feeling the hole in my life. First saw John in 1978 on solo tour at Liverpool Uni & bought music & saw him many times since then. Just bought Ain't No Saint & shed a few tears at some of the memories...
Dave <nechap2@gmail.com>
Durham City, UK - Saturday, April 16, 2011 at 15:56:16 (CEST)

Loved John, played on the same stage in 1986 (mainstage Glastonbury) and sat on the foldback monitors during his set, wonderful period. Been a massive fan since the late 70's. The man is sadly missed and I would love to do some kind of animation to his work.
Bryan Panks
Cheltenham, UK - Wednesday, April 06, 2011 at 10:27:47 (CEST)

I am a very late convert to the wonderful music of JM. Better late than never and my seeing the light is largely due to reading the passages about JM in the book Electric Eden.
Robert McCutcheon
Livingston, Scotland - Wednesday, March 23, 2011 at 23:05:05 (CET)

Remembering an early 1970s performance by John Martyn in San Francisco: http://mcm-mynonfiction.blogspot.com/2010/10/memory-of-john-martyn.html
Michael C. Morton
USA - Monday, February 28, 2011 at 21:19:51 (CET)

Hans, just read your New Year message. Keep up the good work. I'm sure there are many there besides me who will keep on visiting the site. John will live on through his music. We will all make sure of that.
Steve Owens <steveowens1958@btinternet.com>
Liverpool, England - Wednesday, February 23, 2011 at 08:37:24 (CET)

Finding out about John's death was like loosing a close friend. I've been listening to him since I was 18 and his music has been with me thorough all kinds of times in my life. The first albums of John's I heard back then were One World and Glorious Fool, a class introduction I think, and I was blown away by him.
Be at peace, John wherever you are now.
Andrew Kearney <andrewkearney12@yahoo.co.uk>
Rochdale, Lancashire, England - Thursday, February 10, 2011 at 17:47:24 (CET)

Hi, GREAT SITE!
I've loved his playing since I walked in to a friend's room at Uni in 1978 and Solid Air was playing on her 20 quid Woolworths stereo. I went on to work in gig promotion at Liverpool Uni and I'm sure there are two or three gigs missing from your (amazing) list.
I'm pretty sure that I put him on in 1980 as a birthday present to myself, which would have been around Feb 1980. Plus I'm pretty sure there was a gig the year before, 1979.
Sorry not to be able to be more specific but my appreciation was, erm, 'enhanced' at the time.
Regards,
Nick Goss
- Saturday, January 29, 2011 at 21:15:02 (CET)

Two years have passed for us, not a day for ya! Cool trick man! Let me sing again for ya: "I know you, I love you, You are my friend, You'll follow me, Everywhere"
Michalis <thecygnus@hotmail.com>
Chania, Crete, Greece - Friday, January 28, 2011 at 23:55:36 (CET)

For info, my CD version of Well Kept Secret is a 2008 version by Warner Music (WEA International inc) on the Rhino Encore series with the number 2564-69484-5.
Peter Cutler <P.cutler@btinternet.com>
Harwell, United Kingdom - Saturday, January 15, 2011 at 21:07:06 (CET)

Hi there,
today I scored another JM album on martkplaats (Piece by Piece). Still one or two to go to make it all complete (t.i. live in Bristol, Sapphire).
Looking forward to some new material! And, JM in de Top 2000 in radio 2 in the Netherlands ... a song should need about 200 votes to enter the top 2000. My guess would be 'one world'. So, everyone going to join??
Aale <aaleboek@hetnet.nl>
- Sunday, January 09, 2011 at 16:12:25 (CET)

Just wanted to add my own little anecdote to the date of 26 September 1990 (Warrington, Parr Hall). I rolled up outside the Parr Hall in Palmyra Square, Warrington after finishing work. As we approached the hall, John appeared at the stage door (situated at the front of the hall!). John was right there in front of me and he asks 'Where's the nearest pub?' Me being Mr Beer Head, tells John to avoid Friars Court or the Woolpack and get to the Lower Angel for some decent beer, at which point John kindly looks at me and says 'I'm looking for the band!'...
I sit here now in Perth WA and still play my old vinyl of John's and feel that it was a great honour to even have entered into such a brief discussion and still walk away laughing... Much missed, much appreciated, God bless.
Stuart Massey
Perth, Western Australia - Monday, January 03, 2011 at 22:29:28 (CET)

Would love to know when 'Willing to Work' is due for release; also would like to know what's happening with the tribute album. HELP please!!!!
John Roberts <Eryl893107392@aol.com>
Caerphilly, Cymru...Wales - Tuesday, September 14, 2010 at 14:36:18 (CEST)

Webmaster: As I understand the new album 'Heaven and Earth' will be released in the spring of 2011. John Hillarby has published a tracklisting.

My wife is convinced that one of John's songs found its way into an episode of Sex and the City. Sadly she doesn't know which one. I've never seen the programme and wondered if someone might be able to shed some light into this sweet little mystery...
Scott Harvie
UK - Monday, August 02, 2010 at 10:48:44 (CEST)

Apologies if you can't see the pics without being signed-in to Facebook, I don't have a website so I just thought I'd put them on the web any way I could.........love and peace Ian
Ian Munday <Ian.Munday@utas.edu.au>
Hobart, Australia - Thursday, July 08, 2010 at 13:37:32 (CEST)

Here's the link to the series of works... http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=2060307&id;=1027256172
Ian Munday <Imunday59@gmail.com>
Hobart, Australia - Thursday, July 08, 2010 at 04:32:55 (CEST)

What an artist.Just found johns music by chance about 3 years ago and fell in love with him.Have most of his albums and love them all dearly.Rest Easy big man.
DON GOULDING <DONGOULDING73@GMAIL.COM>
CORK, IRELAND - Tuesday, June 22, 2010 at 22:35:05 (CEST)

Still reeling from the news of John's passing despite the passage of time. I have been listening to his music since my first years at university and later at art school and he is truly without peers. Watched the "Johnny too Bad" documentary recently on Google video and was saddened somewhat at his deterioration. Trawled the net and was increasingly saddened and moved by his spiralling health, a friend gave me a copy of the double Roundhouse London gig and to tell the truth I could only bring myself to listen to it once, his voice had quietly disintegrated at the end of a turbulent and at times self-destructive life. I started a body of work not long after hearing of his death last year and will be having an exhibition of it next month, entitled "Solid Air-Remembering John Martyn" it's the only way as an artist I could make some sort of sense of his loss. I can post a link to the site for the gallery once the date is confirmed.....
Ian Munday <imunday59@gmail.com>
Hobart, Australia - Thursday, June 17, 2010 at 04:54:48 (CEST)

John Martyn, well what can one say, when moved to tears.!

When he was at his best he was better than Dylan and Morrison combined!!!! That's how awesome i think he was.
Allan Jonassen <ajonassen85@gmail.com>
Ans By, Denmark - Tuesday, May 25, 2010 at 22:28:25 (CEST)

I don't know if you get to see the BBC's 'Ashes to Ashes' series, but my wife had recorded the programme of Friday 14th May and we watched it a few days later. It got to a short sequence when the main male & female characters were getting ready for a date together and so the film was cutting between scenes of the two of them. As the music was faded in, after about three notes I said to my wife, "It's John Martyn", and quickly realised it was Couldn't Love You More (One World version). This fitted the film superbly and it played quite a reasonable part of the song.
Ian Hepplewhite
UK - Thursday, May 20, 2010 at 22:08:31 (CEST)

I recently watched the first season of Doc Martin on DVD (2004) and in the episode "Of All The Harbours Of All The Towns", there is a conversation between Elaine & Al that goes:
(E): Do you like Portishead?
(A): Yeah, Glory Box... brilliant song
(E): Yeah, I know it.
(A): ... and have you heard John Martyn's cover of Glory Box-now that is unreal...
(E): (amazed) You know John Martyn? Like... no-one knows John Martyn!
(A): Know him, I've got every single album...
Cheers,
Dan Smith
- Thursday, May 20, 2010 at 22:04:13 (CEST)

I was fortunate enough to be able to record a John Martyn song on Danielle Lubene's newest album - 'Post Cards from the Sea of Me'...She was having a hard time picking one to do, I think it was a toss up between 'Man in the Station' and 'Bless the Weather'. She chose 'Bless the Weather', and it features some sublime bass work from Bill Melcher. I got lucky enough to play the guitar stuff! If anyone wants to hear it, go to www.daniellelubene.com. She's going to be touring the record, and we look forward to getting over to England in the near future. We are all fans, whose lives have been changed by the grace and danger of John's life and music. Cheers for keeping the faith, y'all! Doug Ashby
Doug Ashby <dougashbymusic.TTB@hotmail.com>
Allentown, USA - Tuesday, April 27, 2010 at 22:20:12 (CEST)

If you have not read 'Some People are Crazy' - The John Martyn Story, then you must, now! Without doubt John was an outstanding creative - and this book just gives a real feel and flavour for the man.
Mark Gentry
Cambridge, UK - Wednesday, April 07, 2010 at 19:31:28 (CEST)

I was trying to find the exact date I saw John in Adelaide in 1983 & found that you don't have that gig listed. It was at the Opera Theatre (now called her Majesty's Theatre) & I'm reasonably sure he had performed in Perth, West Australia, a couple of days before. My wife & I didn't know his music well then, but as it was life before kids we took a punt & it was a stunning show full of power, emotion & of course, hilarity!! Cheers,
Christopher Powell
Australia - Sunday, April 04, 2010 at 11:40:10 (CEST)

Hi , I'm sure I went to a gig at Exeter uni in the 70's, would have to have been between 76 and 79 whilst I was a student at Exeter College of Art. I can't find it in your listings - I can't be imagining it, can I? Can anyone help me find this piece of the jigsaw? Thanks Nick.
Nick Samsworth
- Monday, February 08, 2010 at 22:08:31 (CET)

One year has passed for us, not a day for ya! Cool trick man! Lemme sing again for ya: "I know you I love you You are my friend You'll follow me Everywhere"
Michalis <thecygnus@hotmail.com>
Chania, Greece - Friday, January 29, 2010 at 10:18:03 (CET)

I see an earlier posting from myself dated April 2006. The band is still playing and weather permiting 24th Jan Queens Head Monmouth. An evening of John Martyn the raw stuff with a lot of love and passion. If your intrested I have a little bit of stuff on the m-space thingy search martynised hope you enjoy miss him loads but in my heart forever alllove allluck Peter.
Peter <Smallhours@btinternet.com>
Cwmbran, Wales - Sunday, January 10, 2010 at 13:18:24 (CET)

Hadn't checked the site for months so it was a shock to learn of JM's death. I had attended McMaster University in Hamilton,Ont. back in 1974-76 & some friends introduced me to JM's music after seeing him open for Yes at Maple Leaf Gardens. Mike Nestler & Tom Owens were the two students that interviewed JM in Toronto June 3,1977 for the new McMaster Radio station. I was living in Vancouver so they sent me a cassette tape of their interview. I passed it on to John Hillarby & the next thing I know it is out "there" all grubby. I kept the original & it is in fine form. I just digitalized it and sent the CD off to Hans at this site. It is very good and a laugh when you look back & listen to old friends who were so much younger then. The tape lasts about 33 minutes and Hans should put it up. I have been in contact with Mike for the first time in 32 years & I'm sending him a copy. He will pass it on to Tom. JM was agreat one to get me through some hard times probably like alot of you. He will be missed.
Ken Harten <harten@rogers.com>
Ottawa, Canada - Tuesday, October 13, 2009 at 02:02:25 (CEST)

Re webmaster's blog and the Keith James/James Rick concert. Try out some of their stuff at:http://www.keith-james.com/postcards_keith_james_rick_foot.php Personally, I think an entire concert by them of JM might sound a bit nice for my personal taste. Good to see the interest though.
SteveO <steveo@stairhaven.demon.co.uk>
Liverpool, UK - Monday, September 14, 2009 at 19:29:48 (CEST)

Does anybody know if there'll be an event in south Wales to remember John Martyn around the first anniversary of his sad death on January 29 2010?
Cedwyn Aled <cedwynaled@yahoo.co.uk>
Pontypridd, Wales - Wednesday, September 02, 2009 at 16:30:56 (CEST)

First saw John opening act for Supetramp at Glasgow City Hall around 1973/74 .. May You never, top 5 songs of Always/ R.I.P. Genius
Paul Scott Goodman <psggood@aol.com>
NYC, USA - Monday, August 31, 2009 at 02:45:06 (CEST)

Does anyone know how to get the VHS tape "In Vision"? There are some performances on there that I remember seeing when they were first aired that aren't on the BBC live DVD. It seems impossible to find an original of that tape these days.
Derek Pollard
Manchester, - Tuesday, August 11, 2009 at 18:48:50 (CEST)

Great, great, website. I am a JM fan -have been ever since I went -being ignorant of his music prior- to see him on his Sundays Child tour (Winter 74-75) at Lancaster Uni. I was totally, totally gobsmacked then, and remain so 34 years on. His guitar playing absolutely amazing-I never figured out what he was doing really, for years. But the *sounds* he made...something quite undescribably emotive. I never met the geezer himself, BUT I did have a kind of 'interaction'...from about 20 seats to my left (I was on front row) Leadmill Sheffield (Sapphire tour)- I had the habit of mimicking (trying to) Johns right hand picking pattern with my right hand, on my knee. At one stage he just quite clearly stared down at my hand, stared for about 5 to 10 seconds, whilst he continued playing, then carried on singing. I stopped after that-thinking it may be annoying him -a bit like a stare from a schoolmaster to a kid in morning assembly. Amazed he picked up on it though from that far away. Anyway, wish I could annoy the old bugger now...a great loss.
Ian <igarbett@csu.edu.au>
Wagga , Australia - Wednesday, July 22, 2009 at 18:13:30 (CEST)

I spent a couple of years in the late 1980s as John's guitar maker and technician; had some extraordinary times with him at gigs, in bars, at his house, on the road. Loved the man and infuriated by him - that was John though. I've got some untold stories and unpublished photos if anyone's doing research and wants to find out more.
Paul Richardson <paul@francecamp.com>
Lewes, United Kingdom - Wednesday, June 17, 2009 at 02:40:41 (CEST)

im new to john. fell in love with go down easy, then solid air. so i google him and found an older man with a very strong scottish accent. yet the young john, it seems, had a very clipped british accent. can anyone explain?
jane cornes <jcornes@iinet.net.au>
perth, australia - Tuesday, June 16, 2009 at 08:19:01 (CEST)

I only heard about John on th 29th January 2009 and I have been listening to his music every day since. His ability to express those things that usually go unsaid has captivated me completely. I wish I could have discovered him sooner, or been born a few decades earlier! Rest in peace John xx
Holly <tappingthedreamtree@hotmail.co.uk>
Liverpool, UK - Sunday, May 03, 2009 at 19:08:20 (CEST)

I just can't beieve the big mans gone. Got most CDs and a few LPs!. Saw him in Folkestone in '86-Brilliant!!!! Sorely missed-never knew about this site, will visit often, Cheers Big Man!!!!!
janice <Jones6hf@btinternet.com>
Bangor, UK - Sunday, March 29, 2009 at 20:47:16 (CEST)

It feels like I have known you for a lifetime...
steven sarson <stevensarson@eseig.ipp.pt>
porto, portugal - Thursday, March 26, 2009 at 02:19:59 (CET)

Privileged to have met him in the late 70's when playing in a support folk band. He basically changed my life and has been an inspiration from then on. Could make you weep then and can still do the same now. Can you ever come to terms when something so magical is gone. His music lives on and will play me out when I shuffle off.
Don Hardy <don@swanphoto.co.uk>
Tamworth, England - Tuesday, March 24, 2009 at 11:52:58 (CET)

I remember bumping into a friend in the foyer of Cork Opera House after one of John Martyns Gigs. He was a bit disgruntled claiming Johns performance wasn't up to scratch. I retorted " Go on say's I, You should be priveliged to be in the same room as him he's a Legened, I wouldn't care if he barked for the entire 2 hours".That's what it was like for me. It's sad to think we won't get to see him play again. I have some unbelievable memories from Johns music,good times bad times. RIP Big John Martyn.
Frankie Griffin <frankiegriffin@eircom.net>
Cork City, - Wednesday, February 11, 2009 at 22:00:59 (CET)

I shared a basement coldwater flat in Parsons Green in 1967-8 and JM used to visit as it was a hangout for Scottish folkies such as Clive Palmer, etc. I'd just come back from Spain with a fancy new Spanish guitar and was learning classical music. One day John heard me playing "Romance de Amor" and asked me to teach it to him. I'd been practising it for months and in about 30 mins John had it down pat and had started to improvise as only he could. We all used to go to Les Cousins in Soho for the weekend all nighters. I still have a recording of one of John's sessions there, that I will always treasure. Also, Davy Graham used to play there, and my two heros of British folk/jazz/blues guitar are now gone. Hope Bert Jansch still has a few good ones left. RIP, John Gibson from Canada, now Thailand
John Gibson <george.cc.blount@gmail.com>
Khon Kaen, Thailand - Thursday, February 05, 2009 at 11:14:01 (CET)

What a sad loss. One will never forget such genius. Regards Marc
marc
oxford, uk - Tuesday, February 03, 2009 at 13:46:12 (CET)

"One day without you, and I feel just like some lost ship at sea". Very sorry to hear of John's passing. Condolences to his family and nearest & dearest. I've been a HUGE fan from London Conversation through to On the Cobbles and was promised a 50th birthday present trip to the UK to see him later this year. I was lucky enough to see him live in the late 70's and early 80's and those memories will certainly suffice.
Mark Hulls <mark@hulls.com.au>
Melbourne, Australia - Tuesday, February 03, 2009 at 02:18:53 (CET)

a true one off! will be sorely missed .
howard ahmun ( arrans cousin ) <hobberscardiff@hotmail.com>
cardiff, wales - Monday, February 02, 2009 at 21:30:52 (CET)

Finding out that John Martyn died was like finding a lost love and losing him again. I saw him perform twice at Clark University in Worcester MA I believe in 1975 and 1977. At the second concert I remember he was very drunk and shouted at the audience and we all wondered if he'd get through the concert which he barely did. He had already instantly become my favorite singer and I listened to him ever since, always wondering what happened to him, because I never really heard about him after 1980 and my life went in other directions. I had wondered if he really just went over the edge or lost notoriety. But no other male singer has moved me like he does. So sad to hear about his death and hardships. So glad he won deserved awards. So glad to have his music and so glad to be able to order more.
Amy Brenner Mitz <hsm1836@aol.com>
Sugar Hill New Hampshire, USA - Monday, February 02, 2009 at 19:23:54 (CET)

I first 'discovered' John & his music when I was at college in Glasgow in the late 60s. A college friend was an ex-girlfriend of John before he went to London and she talked about his music. I then was blown away when I heard it for myself. I actively sought out any of his recordings that I could. A teaching colleague knew how much I liked him & twice bought me albums-Solid Air & Sunday's Child. I managed to see him at Glasgow City Halls with my husband, who also loved his music, & now remember that superb evening with great emotion.His music has been with me throughout my life from the late 60s until now & I can't believe there will never be any more new music from him. It has been difficult to get to sleep since hearing that he'd died as my head is filled with his songs when I lie in bed. How much worse it must be for his family & close friends. My heart & thoughts are with you all. One of life's geniuses has been taken from us but at least we had him on this earth for a short time. You may be gone but your music will live on.
Marilyn
Ryde, UK - Monday, February 02, 2009 at 18:51:08 (CET)

John was and is the soundtrack of my life. Please Hans, keep the big Muff going Love all the JM fans
arthur praet <artpraet@skynet.be>
Brussel, Belgium - Monday, February 02, 2009 at 17:36:18 (CET)

Hi there, Words cannot describe how I feel - 'Friends all tell me that I look so sad' etc.... I've put together my own small tribue piece on www.steverawson.wordpress.com He was - is - always will be part of the soundtrack of my life. The lyrics, songs, albums, gigs, musicians, musicianship, the raw emotion, the intertwining sophisticated tapestry of the music. 'May you never lay your head down without a hand to hold' - Thank you so much John
Steve Rawson <stephenrawson@eircom.net>
Dublin , Ireland - Sunday, February 01, 2009 at 17:08:59 (CET)

hey.... hoorde het daarnet, een vriend stuurde me een bericht. erg jammer!
Gina
- Sunday, February 01, 2009 at 11:26:54 (CET)

Just wanted to add my thoughts to the fantastic contributions already on this site. I was driving down to London to play a gig with my band when I heard the news on Thursday. A massive shock, yet most of us who knew of John knew that he was not in the best of health for the past few years. John had been the soundtrack to my life since 1973 when I was 13 in the ups and downs of life. He was brilliant, volatile, reckless, tender but, above all, he was capable of the most achingly beautiful songs - I will miss him terribly but, at least, his music lives on. There is a brilliant tribute from Danny Baker on his BBC London Thursday afternoon show - check it out while you can. His reaction says it all God bless, big man
Jeff <jeff.reynolds@virgin.net>
Stafford, UK - Saturday, January 31, 2009 at 23:56:05 (CET)

The Day the Music Died, if Don McLean is to be believed, was February 3rd 1959, when Buddy Holly, Ritchie Valens, and J. P. "The Big Bopper" Richardson were killed in a plane crash. For me, the day was Thursday 29th January 2009, when John Martyn departed this world. I first encountered John s music on the BBC s Rock Goes to College in the early 80s. Playing songs off his then current Grace and Danger album, something about him impressed me. The music was jazzy-sounding harmonically and rhythmically far more sophisticated than anything else I had heard up until that point. The next day, I parted with £3.99 for the album at my local Virgin Records and my life-long love affair with John Martyn s music really began. At 17, I couldn t fully appreciate the emotions surrounding a divorce which were laid bare so obviously on Grace and Danger but I instinctively knew this music was real. It transcended mere verbal understanding it communicated on a whole different level to anything else I had ever heard. And so on I delved into Martyn s back catalogue: Bless The Weather, Solid Air, Inside Out, Sunday s Child, One World - and on into his future work for the remainder of our time together on this planet. And every time he played in Manchester I went to see him (over 30 times in total!) Sometimes he was truly awe-inspiring - better than anyone you could ever imagine. Sometimes he was too drunk (and/or stoned) and awful. But for me, this added to the allure. JM was never merely predictably professional. You were going to get the show he wanted and you d better make the most of it because he wasn t going to change for the sake of an audience! The music was truly created in the moment. On learning that he had had his right lower-leg amputated into 2003, I naturally feared for his health. His triumphant return to the stage the following year allayed my concerns, at least for the time-being. Sadly, each subsequent performance revealed an ever-larger John and by the start of 2007, it was clear from his Solid Air shows that his health had deteriorated considerably. I left the venue wondering if I would ever see him again. Happily, one Lifetime Achievement Award later, I did. I saw John for what turned out to be the last time in November 2008. Billed as the Grace and Danger tour, he played the whole of the album which first introduced me to his music. Now in my mid-forties and smarting from my very own divorce he got to me all over again. Though by then a wheel-chair using mountain of a man, scarcely recognisable as the good-looking youth from his early album covers, that beautiful voice and unique guitar-playing easily asserted that it was the same creative force sitting right in front of me. This time I left with optimism. Sadly, only one month on from his OBE, we lost John. That the last performance I witnessed by the great John Martyn ranks among the finest I have seen him give makes his passing so much worse. He could never be written off as a has been there was always the risk that the next album or the next gig might just be astounding I for one will really miss him
Richard Homer <rmhomer@btinternet.com>
Manchester, England - Saturday, January 31, 2009 at 21:00:39 (CET)

Remember the first time I heard John, I think someone played me Solid Air when the Album came out. She was a lovely girl, I couldn't understand a word John was singing ! It didn't matter, it's not the words, it's not the music, it's the synergy or something. Of course now I do know every word. I think John and all of us knew that this time was not far away, I'm glad he's left us so much. In his own recent words You re here for a good time, not a long time
Francis <Francisholiday@VTMail.com>
Chipping Ongar, ENGLAND - Saturday, January 31, 2009 at 07:46:31 (CET)

Saw John many times in the 70's. Sometimes brilliant, sometimes shall we say interesting, never dull! Good to see that over the last couple of years the genius of the man and his contribution to modern music gaining the recognition it deserves. RIP John.
Roy <whernfox@yahoo.co.uk>
Widnes, England - Saturday, January 31, 2009 at 00:19:03 (CET)

The news of your passing made my cry, in 30 years that's the second time. Heard you play in Hastings in the pub for beer money each week - damn you were good. Thanks for the music and just so much. RIP
Tony <Tonyc5@btinternet.com>
Sidcup, Kent - Friday, January 30, 2009 at 22:35:33 (CET)

You were there at the beginning John and have stayed with me since. Big guy, bigger heart worn well and truly on your sleeve and a uniqueness we will likely never see the likes of again. All the best John.
Plod <stoatinaboot@hotmail.com>
- Friday, January 30, 2009 at 21:47:21 (CET)

I have listened to nothing but John, since hearing the dreadful news. I have been listening to John's music, for thirty five years. I met him several times, which was easy, because John was so very aproachable. My heart goes out to those closest to him. They have lost so much more than just John. For me, he will live on in every song. Bye John.
Andrew Bain <andrewbain824@btinternet.com>
Haddington, Scotland - Friday, January 30, 2009 at 20:54:30 (CET)

I only got 'in' to John Martyn in recent years, but I'd known about him since I was in single figures. Memories of family get togethers, that stretched out into the small hours. Living room immersed in clouds of smoke from ciggarettes and other more 'exotic' herbs, all soundtracked by the sound of an acoustic guitar, and a voice that somehow managed to be both pure and unintelligible. Fifteen years later I caught a snippet of an acoustic guitar player on the TV in the pub. A BBC2 re-run of The Old Grey Whistle Test. John Martyn was making an acoustic guitar sound like an entire orchestra during a rendition of the old blues song 'I'd Rather Be The Devil'. I wasn't even sure that I liked it, but I loved his musical ability, and later that night the CD of Solid Air was liberated from my fathers collection, and re-housed. Some time later, a different generation of the same family was housing similar get togethers to a similar soundtrack, the the One World album, and in particular, 'Small Hours', being my swan song of choice to conclude a night of party. My first live encounter with John was on the Solid Air remembered tour. The Glasgow date. A drunk John was wheeled on to stage and his first words were, 'I dreamt I'd died last night. I wish I had!'. Black humour obviously, but what an introduction to your musical hero! As the songs passed, so did the drinks, and we were waved on our way by a rendition of 'Rock, Salt, and Nails'. 2008 saw 'May You Never' being played at my wedding, and on honeymoon in Malta I happened across a copy of the John Martyn biography, 'Some People are Crazy', in the middle of a Maltese bookshop. This became my holiday reading. I last saw John last November in Glasgow. I almost missed the gig due to being in Berlin with a hangover on the morning of the concert, with a flight out of there seeming a herculean feat. I managed though, and John blew away any cobwebs that remained, with a breathtaking rendition of Grace and Danger. John seemed to have lost weight since i'd last sen him, and certainly seemed more jovial, exchanging banter with the audience between songs. I was deeply saddened by the news on Thursday morning. I'd envisioned more gigs, more banter, more stories. Just more. I never met him, but I'll miss John. My thoughts are with his family and friends. Brian Slevin
Brian Slevin <bogle_mcneep@hotmail.co.uk>
Hamilton, Scotland - Friday, January 30, 2009 at 20:19:07 (CET)

I'm struggling to process the fact that i will never have the pleasure of seeing him again. As long as I'm alive he will never be dead to me.
Stephen <sduncan161@btinternet.com>
East Harlsey, England - Friday, January 30, 2009 at 18:17:01 (CET)

Hi Hans, A little late, but I just heard about John Martyn's passing. It's a sad thing to hear and it's great to have his music live on through people like yourself. It's a shame that I've never really took the time to get to know his works. But it's never too late to get properly acquainted with John Martyn's music right? Do you perhaps have some pointers for a starter? Thanks. Groetjes, Bree Btw, it's been a while since I've been on this site and I like what you've done with it. Well done.
Bree
Amsterdam, Netherlands - Friday, January 30, 2009 at 16:56:11 (CET)

cannot believe John Martyn has left the satge for good. One of the real greats of modern music,he provided the soundtrack to all of our lives. Rest easy "Friends will tell me that I look so sad, They don't need to ask me why, They know the reason that I feel so bad, Since the night you said 'Goodbye'"
Muiris Walsh <muiris.walsh@bsci.com>
Clonmel, Ireland - Friday, January 30, 2009 at 16:08:06 (CET)

Heard the news yesterday sitting in the docs surgery, Could not believe it. I dashed home and checked on the web only to have it confirmed. I was devastated and have just sat playing his albums last night and today. I played with John in the Glasgow folk centre in the 60's backing him on Bongos, we did a few gigs together and i always found him to be a likable rogue. I remember the night a talent scout came to the club to hear him and shortly after him going off to London to record London Conversation. We practised in his Dads flat in Tantalon Rd. He was like a brother to me and although i never managed to keep in touch i always kept an eye an his progress hoping to meet up again some day in our old age. Alas this is not not to be but i will always remember my brother in music, John. Love to his old girlfriend from the Glasgow days too, Linda. My thoughts are also with Theresa his better half over in Ireland. God bless you John and keep playing whever you may be. Ian
Ian Hamilton <iain@culloden.net>
Inverness, UK - Friday, January 30, 2009 at 13:02:31 (CET)

I saw him dedicate May You Never to some giant of a Greek waiter he knew who'd walked downstairs into Les Cousins to get a spliff. He sang it to him eye to eye. I don't think anyone drew breath for the whole song. You touched everyone and you were a beautiful boy. And you know you wanted to see what the record companies did when you popped it - well they're going to have to hire the Albert Hall for f*cking weeks so we can all pay tribute and if we can't get the album, Jeff Buckley style, in the charts so everyone can love you like we do, we'd be letting you down. Lay your head down mate, we're holding your hand.
Alister
- Friday, January 30, 2009 at 12:41:00 (CET)

I'm very sad to hear about JM's death. I'm listening to him as I write this and feel very emotional. I saw him 3 or 4 times in concert and he's has been the soundtrack to the wee hours of my life for many years. Listening to him just now I'm transported back to many beautiful and sad times of my life. Thanks for your big heart John (RIP) Callum
Callum Egan <info@callumegan.co.uk>
Edinburgh, Scotland - Friday, January 30, 2009 at 12:26:43 (CET)

We are truly shocked and saddened to hear that john has left us. He always seemed to be trying to blot out sadness and his struggle is finally over. We saw john at the Pavilion in Glasgow many moons ago with our friends Colin Lapping and Jackie Winning - this is a treasured memory. We have all had the priviledge of collecting john's music over the years - a legacy he can be justly proud of. We have enjoyed his company for such a long time and we will be playing our own "tribute concert" for him at our home in New Zealand tonight.
Ian & Jeanette <caledonianz@kol.co.nz>
Nelson, New Zealand - Friday, January 30, 2009 at 12:07:26 (CET)

Sad tidings. John Martyn will be sorely missed.
Lebe <lebe1956@yahoo.com>
Amsterdam, Netherlands - Friday, January 30, 2009 at 11:31:52 (CET)

I heard the news at work yesterday and just didn't know what to do, absolutely gutted. R.I.P. Big man the Lowry will be a lonely place without you and you concerts.
Tom Boyle <tomfishtrombones@ntlworld.com>
Oldham, England - Friday, January 30, 2009 at 11:10:21 (CET)

Totally gutted to hear about "The Great Man's passing. What a influence he has been on so many lives and times. I am 53 now and have followed him since I was 15 and my daughter too has heard him all her life...its in the genes! Farewell John, saw you in Glasgow just recently and you were great. Sweet dreams pet.
Chrissy
Glasgow, Scotland - Friday, January 30, 2009 at 10:04:05 (CET)

Saw John Martyn in August 1977 toured New Zealand first time I think for the NZ Student Arts Council with Bert Jansch. Not in the Big Muff Gig guide listing! Played Wellington University. Jansch was sick left the stage, one way or another he was under the weather! John covered the entire gig solo. Couple hundred students in the student hall, sunday night, very mellow. Sundays back then no alcohol could be bought. John had huge bottle on stage with him. Memory says burbon. At one point he stopped and said he felt guilty that we were all dry, told us toleave 3 inches or so at the bottom for him after the gig and passed the bottle down to the front row. In appreciation John was kept supplied with some sweet New Zealand herb. Magical evening. John seemed to just relax and genuinely be enjoying himself. Will never forget how Glistening Glyndebourne swirled like the music was playing him. Music lives on, so must he.
Ray <Jonah_nz@yahoo.com>
Paraparaumu, New Zealand - Friday, January 30, 2009 at 01:43:29 (CET)

Have seen John at least once almost every since 1976, can't quite believe that he won't be round again. His music and his spirit will of course live on. Thoughts are with his family and friends. Cheers Big John. Steve.
Steve <sbboyle@btinternet.com>
N Ireland - Friday, January 30, 2009 at 00:18:48 (CET)

I know you I love you You are my friend You'll follow me Everywhere
Michalis <thecygnus@hotmail.com>
Chania, Greece - Friday, January 30, 2009 at 00:08:48 (CET)

Such sad news. John seems to have been with me all my life, going back to the first album I discovered in 1970 - Bless the Weather when I was 16. I went on to buy everything new he ever produced. I m very grateful to have had the chance to see him one last time in Brighton on the Grace and Danger tour last November. Even though he had to be helped onto the stage in his wheelchair, he still brought the same energy to that gig as he did to the first one I saw 35 years ago. Thanks for all the music John - I'm glad you had a life well lived. Bless the weather that brought you to me, curse the storm that takes you away
Paul Osborn <osborn@btinternet.com>
Redhill, UK - Thursday, January 29, 2009 at 23:42:58 (CET)

With tears in my eyes I write to add my respects to a man who has touched my life more than any other in musician. Like many, I want to know the details of how he was taken from us. If you find out, please post it here or provide a link. I am so sad I did not get to see him just one last time on his 2008 tour. RIP big John. All my love, John
john mcdonald <jmcdonald05@mac.com>
liverpool, - Thursday, January 29, 2009 at 23:34:54 (CET)

bless the man and his music
ali <aliwatson33@hotmail.com>
linz, austria - Thursday, January 29, 2009 at 23:23:29 (CET)

RIP John. Your legacy will remain with us for ever. May you never leave us in spirit.
Ginny <gingingin_1@yahoo.com>
Bristol, UK - Thursday, January 29, 2009 at 23:16:00 (CET)

I heard the news on the car radio coming home from work. What a tragedy, He wrote some of the most beautiful songs ever created , and no-one has ever written a song for a friend more caring and loving than solid air. A unique singer and performer and a truly special man. RIP.
David Carmichael <Dave.car@btinternet.com>
Glasgow, Scotland - Thursday, January 29, 2009 at 22:59:48 (CET)

So sad to hear of John's passing. What a talent he was! Thanks for the show. Sweet dreams now.
Sean Castledine
- Thursday, January 29, 2009 at 22:09:14 (CET)

What a sad day. A huge part of my musical love for 30 years or so has gone. It will doubtless be said many times - but at least his music will live on. Bless you John, wherever you are. May you never
Michael Darby <michael@pod-design.biz>
Wallington, Surrey - Thursday, January 29, 2009 at 21:54:42 (CET)

Thanks for the music and memories John.
Jc <martin.x-s@tiscali.co.uk>
manchester, uk - Thursday, January 29, 2009 at 21:36:42 (CET)

Music shines a little less today! Cya big fella. A true genius. Nev in warwick
Nev <nevillewhitehouse@googlemail.com>
warwick, uk - Thursday, January 29, 2009 at 21:26:10 (CET)

I think I've seen John every time he toured up here since 1978 and bought every album. He has been a constant soundtrack to my life. When I was angry there was 'John Wayne', when I was dumped there was 'Sweet Little Mystery', when I fell in love with my wife listening to the 'Bless the Weather' album, it seemed he'd written the songs for us. Some of his songs had that wierd 'How come nobody has written that before?' feel, such was the simplicity and beauty of them. Some of his songs needed cranking up to eleven and shouting along with, some of them challenged. All of them were life enhancing. Thanks John, the world was more interesting for your prescence and just that little bit more tawdry for you absence.
Ernie <pisschisel@hotmail.co.uk>
Liverpool, UK - Thursday, January 29, 2009 at 20:49:57 (CET)

So sad to hear of John's passing. His music has been an inspiration and a consolation through times good and bad. The last time i saw him in the Roisin Dubh, Galway he was as sublime as ever: in great voice and exceptional humour. John's gigs were some of the best i have ever been to, the man was a true force of nature. Power and emotion wrapped inside a torrent of truth. And funk. I will forever treasure the night in a packed Kilkenny bar i saw John standing having a drink and a laugh and watched as he realised his foot was caught in the strap of my girlfiend's bag as she stood waiting to get served. I watched in increasing mirth as she tried to get his considerable leg to move. All the while she was oblivious as to who's leg it was she was trying to budge. When she sat down and looked back to the bar to see why i was convulsed in laughter at her tormentor only then did she recognise the great man. A brilliant, sweet, funny and emotional man. With an unholy beautiful voice. Rest in Peace Big Man.
Neil McLauchlan <neil.mcl21@gmail.com>
Galway, Ireland - Thursday, January 29, 2009 at 19:58:53 (CET)

Condolences to all those who will miss our John. At least he's left s a wonderful legacy of warm music to listen to. I've been enveloped by it all afternoon (not to mention the past 30+ years). Just hearing the closing bars of Cry Me A River. Not just an original but a great covers artist too...
Bob Jacobs <rjacobs@cix.co.uk>
Newbury, United Kingdom - Thursday, January 29, 2009 at 19:36:09 (CET)

such a sad day. heard the news while listening to Radio London 1pm. Danny Baker dedicated his whole show to JM . playing nothing else. A MOVING TRIBUTE. RIP SIR
david cobb <nodney@btinternet.com>
london, uk - Thursday, January 29, 2009 at 18:37:18 (CET)

As a 46 year old it seems that you have always been there...will miss you deeply, whenever I needed to chill out you were there. Heaven will be a better place tonight....
Danny Kearns <dannyrue@Aol.com>
Aberdeen, Scotland - Thursday, January 29, 2009 at 18:23:15 (CET)

Shocked and genuinely upset by the news of John's demise. Thanks for the music, the gigs and the attitude, a real inspiration since my teens (now 43).
Mark <fortywattfilms@gmx.com>
Leeds, Yorkshire - Thursday, January 29, 2009 at 18:16:17 (CET)

Sitting here listening to Glorious Fool - perhaps not his most critically acclaimed, but my favourite. Saw John more times in concert than any other artist, including a front row experience in Edinburgh 1983. Haven't felt this way since December 8th 1980. John, you are a legend and a maestro - you will be alive through your music forever to me, my family and friends. Go down easy. DAF
David Fernando <davidfernando@blueyonder.co.uk>
Cheam, England - Thursday, January 29, 2009 at 18:06:20 (CET)

John's work brought out my deep passion for music. A true genius, John will live on through his music.
Katrina.
- Thursday, January 29, 2009 at 17:05:22 (CET)

R.I.P John.You have been such a big part of my musical life.I have seen him on good days and bad but always loved his sound.
Kenny Day <buckiequine@banff36.wanadoo.co.uk>
Banff, Aberdeenshire - Thursday, January 29, 2009 at 16:48:29 (CET)

John's music is woven deeply into the fabric of our lives -the soundtrack to all those stoned late nights, first kisses, old friendships, road trips - always the first album you reached for when coming down - John will always be alive for us all - RIP john and say hi to Nick for me
Dave
- Thursday, January 29, 2009 at 16:38:53 (CET)

The Guv'nor, a HUGE part of my life. You will be sorely missed big man. Love up !!!
GARY HARRIES <gary.harries@properdistribution.co.uk>
CHATHAM, ENGLAND - Thursday, January 29, 2009 at 16:31:31 (CET)

Rest In Peace John
michael and carole <hyacinth3456-comments@yahoo.co.uk>
lawford, england - Thursday, January 29, 2009 at 16:03:34 (CET)

Just heard the news, can't believe it. I'll miss you forever John. Thank you for giving us so much of yourself. Farewell and sleep well.
Wayne Spencer
Leicester, UK - Thursday, January 29, 2009 at 15:48:16 (CET)

John is gone, I can't believe it, I really can't take it in yet...John, you are/were my hero, my idol and my musical soundtrack. RIP John, love you with my head and heart.
tomScotland <tom29@blueyonder.co.uk>
dumbarton, scotland - Thursday, January 29, 2009 at 15:30:35 (CET)

Can't believe the news. I bless the weather that brought you to me, curse the storn thats took you away
Iain Gregson
- Thursday, January 29, 2009 at 14:50:25 (CET)

John you were a one off, loved you....
John Hawkins <johnh@jhbd.co.uk>
St Leonards on Sea, UK - Thursday, January 29, 2009 at 14:35:54 (CET)

I am the original recorder of the 'The July Wakes' recording that has been 'officially' released. Flattered though I am a credit on the sleeve would have been nice... I have never sold any of my recordings... I have spread the gospel of John since 1973... and would continue to do so. Just saw him at The Lowry in Manchester... amazing... simply amazing.
TonyT
Manchester, UK - Tuesday, November 18, 2008 at 19:55:41 (CET)

Hi, eversince i've seen a documentary about John Martyn on TV a couple (3) years ago i've been hooked to his music.....the thing is I don't remember the name of the docu......Plus i can't find any other docu about him than Johnny Too Bad and i can't find it as a download or a site were i can buy it.......I would love to see it again........Can anybody help me???.........THANX
Glen <glen.akul@gmail.com>
Eindhoven, the Netherlands - Sunday, November 09, 2008 at 15:24:56 (CET)

Snooo! I saw John gigs in Bimingham with Roy Harper. Really Liked Jay Fishers stuff and have followed his work since. He goes under the name Apple Rabbits at the moment and I don't think people would know he was Jay Fisher as i've never noticed him really advertising his past. Maybe you could add a link by his name to his myspace: www.myspace.com/applerabbits. I don't know if he'd mind but he's still plugging away there. Great site, Tabs
Tabitha Wade
UK - Saturday, October 04, 2008 at 12:04:38 (CEST)

Hi there folks, i too also remember watching the bbc4 johnny your too bad documentary its probably the best retrospective of the mans carrer. yet it went under the radar because the bbc put it on in the uk on bbc4 in the early hours of the morning. anywho i have searched everywhere for the documentary, and now i can say that there is a torrent out there for the whole documentary in all its glory you just have to type john martyn in a torrent search. It is by far the best promotional programme for the man himself and it made me by the albums so there you go. Cheers Jamie
Jamie <phycadelic_shapes_in_the_sink@hotmail.com>
Edinburgh, UK - Thursday, August 21, 2008 at 04:04:11 (CEST)

One more hour before the television series Rebus starts at one of the Flemish channels. The first episode was aired about 2 or 3 weeks ago and much to my surprise and goosebumped skin, there was this scene with John Martyn music in it. Aha. The detective Rebus is a fanatic John Martyn fan. Gotto love this series :-) best!
Gina/Mizar5
Belgium - Saturday, May 10, 2008 at 19:22:44 (CEST)

I remember seeing Martyn open a Clapton concert (Clapton sucked that night... stoned and sloppy) in the mid 70's and I was very impressed. I couldn't find out much about him (no internet) and I didn't know his name was spelled with a "y". Now years later I've become a fan. Like the late John Fahey, Martyn is largely unknown but very gifted. How is it that artists this good slip "under the radar"? Is it possible to purchase the BBC documentary "Johnny Too Bad"? I can't find it for sale. Good Luck to all. Rich H
Rich H <rharty@optonline.net>
Babylon NY, USA - Saturday, March 22, 2008 at 17:40:16 (CET)

Hi, I was wondering if you would maybe the one single person in the world that could help me with the following: I have been a John Martyn fan as long as I can remember, which at my age (51) is quite a couple of years. Back in the 70's, I think it must have been between 1977-1979, the British DJ Alan Bangs had his own radio show on the German Radio. One light night he played 4 or 5 tracks from a John Martyn Live EP he had received as a not-for-sale promo. Those tracks were tremendous live versions of John's full band at that time and I was totally smitten. Ever since that night, I have been searching for these tracks but to no prevail. I own pretty much every single live CD of John, with the exception of promo releases. Is there any chance that you would be able to tell me what EP this could have been? I have been trying to get in contact with Alan Bangs -probably the only person that know what I am talking about- but have not even been able to get his email address. I would very much appreciate it if you would be able to shed some light on my mystery. Thank you very much in advance. Regards,
Hans Lanslots
USA - Wednesday, February 27, 2008 at 09:21:02 (CET)

Hi there, thanks for the great site dedicated to The Man. I hope this information will help you perfect your utterly amazing lists. I attended a gig in Stuttgart, Germany, back in the hazy second half of 1990, though I'm unable to pinpoint the exact date. It was definitely between June and October, in a place called 'Die Röhre', which was a converted railway tunnel with, shall we say, interesting acoustics. I went to school with Alan Thompson (Eastwood High, near Glasgow), where we were pretty close mates, so I sent word backstage and Alan came out to see me before the gig, then saw me later with JM and the whole band after the usual memorable performance. (They all asked me to try and get something nice to smoke, but I failed miserably - major repression in Germany in those days, still is really.) The date of the gig must be close to the other German gigs of that year, but as I recall the gig was fairly spontaneous (i.e. minor advertising and hence low attendance) and might not have appeared on any schedules that JM's biographer has dug up. I also vaguely remember the saxophonist seriously trying to pick up my girlfriend of the time... Can't blame him, she was gorgeous. Maybe Alan T would know... and maybe some other gigs on that tour got lost... I'll have to try and find an email address for him. Keep up the excellent work! Best regards,
Gordon Walker
- Wednesday, January 16, 2008 at 21:41:30 (CET)

My first listening of a song from John Martyn was in 1982. I heard "Solid Air" and I was quite electrified. (Credit to my English-teacher Keith Melville, a real Scottsman). Since then I followed closely the whole discography. I am still and I will always be a close listener of the works of John Martyn. Stay as you are. Peace.
Demetrios Apostolides <dapostolides23@mail.gr>
athens, greece - Tuesday, January 08, 2008 at 13:27:52 (CET)

What is the name of the song that is played at the end of the play The Seafarer, currently showing in NYC at the Booth Theater - an usher told me it was a John Martyn song.
Joan Brown
USA - Sunday, December 16, 2007 at 16:34:58 (CET)

Webmaster: The song is Sweet Little Mystery, from the 1980 album Grace & Danger. Another little mystery: both the writer of the play, Conor McPherson, and Big John suffered from an exploding pancreas. For the same reason.

Has anyone heard a promo cd of rough mixes of tracks from "On The Cobbles" going under the title "Snong Dog"? Tracks included are My Creator, Walk Home/ My Summer (working title), Good Night Irene, Me And My Heart, Not My Day, Number Three, Stand Amazed and Heel Of The Hunt. Some fantastic songs that didn't make it to the album.
Greg
Scotland - Friday, December 14, 2007 at 18:26:43 (CET)

Hi Hans thanks for the great web site, keep it up. I have just read Neil Munro's book Some people are crazy, a well written and greatfully recieved 60th birthday present from my wife. On the night Linda Dunning met John in the ABC in Glasgow I was fortunate enough to meet her as well, we stood next to each other in the queue, we chatted about the big man and she graciously allowed me to copy the two pics of her and John into my phone.They have pride of place in my album of John Martyn pics.I seriously recommend all fans to read Neils book, and I thank this website for pointing it out to me. If you read this John get well soon we miss you . Thanks again Hans for the best JM site on the web
Glynn <bigbald57@aol.com>
Beith , Scotland - Tuesday, December 11, 2007 at 15:50:22 (CET)

Just to say I also have some tracks I got of the Internet one of them being lean on me which was listed as John Martyn and there are parts where it sounds like him. Also notice the Battle of Medway is on release in Virgin or what ever it's called. Also done myself a copy of the vidio transatlantic where he covers evil - sweet little mystery - may you never:) Has anyone heared how he is? The Irish gig was cancelled after we had made arrangements to travel but I wonder if the Cypress Avenue location would have suited him bit dingy. Allluck Alllove
Peter <peterjohn101@fsmail.net>
Cwmbran, Wales - Wednesday, November 28, 2007 at 19:50:24 (CET)

The original song is on the 1972 of (the grandmaster) Terry Callier. The albums is titled "Occasional Rain", and the song there is performed only by (the grandmaster) Terry Callier himself. The duet version of (the grandmaster) Terry Callier and Beth Orton (not Aimee Mann) is on Beth's 1997 EP, titled "Best Bit". I've never heard any version of the song by John Martyn, and I seriously doubt there is one in any official release of his. Do share the specific info of the track you say you have. Greetings from Greece.
Michalis <thecygnus@hotmail.com>
Chania, Greece - Monday, October 08, 2007 at 01:27:07 (CEST)

Any one ever heard of a song called Lean On Me...... No, it's the old '" Lean on me/ when you're not strong". This song I am talking about was written by Terry Callier. But knock me down with a feather, it does sound like John Martyn have [sung] the song. Got it off the net and it's titled Lean On Me, John Martyn and Aimee Mann. Can't find the track at the moment but will soon (I have it on cd somewhere). Does anyone have any info on the official song? It's more than likely Terry Callier and Aimee Mann but crikey, there is a resemblence. Any thoughts could be interesting.
Paul O`Connor <oakridge@iol.ie>
Ireland - Saturday, October 06, 2007 at 19:48:11 (CEST)

My greetings to everyone out there! Its a great relief to find a "fan base" for an artist I haven't met anyone in person that really enjoys his music! John's music has kept me good company the few last years I've discovered it, and when no other "chords and lines" are working, there's his long-long catalog to fill in the need of the moment, like no other.
And in case you are reading this John: Don't Stop! Looking forward to the new album over here, under the sun!
PS: Loved the site. You have put so much effort on it, and it shows! Simple looks, rich context....ike every site over the net should be.
Michalis <thecygnus@hotmail.com>
Chania, Greece - Monday, September 03, 2007 at 14:36:16 (CEST)

Hey big man nice to be at the skye gig good to know you are working. http://folkingabout.blogspot.com/
mick Brown
Ayrshire, Scotland - Friday, August 24, 2007 at 03:48:14 (CEST)

hi a pleasure to work for the man
sean clabby
- Saturday, July 28, 2007 at 21:49:53 (CEST)

Any chance you can help me. I play in a band called Grace&Danger; we only play John's music from Solid Air to John Wayne with a few solo efforts by myself. We are playing at The Queens Head Monmouth on Sunday 22nd July entrance is free just pass the hat around to pay for the beer:) I have been as well for the rest of the band John Martyn fans for a long time and we attempt to recreate the musicas close as we can to the original with a little influence of our own. The track list for the last gig is as follows: Couldn t love you more Some people are crazy Could have been me Evil/My Creator Make no mistake/Bless the weather Solid Air The Apprentice Angeline Big Muff Jelly Roll Baker May you never Dealer/Inside Out One World Glorious Fool Yes you can Mad Dog Day Looking On Sweet Little Mystery Johnny too bad John Wayne Anyways if we can get the message out there will be very greatful Allluck Alllove Peter
Peter
Cwmbran , Wales - Tuesday, July 10, 2007 at 19:49:54 (CEST)

great to find a true fans website..,was first caputulated to john and his magic on a balmy summers eve in trinity college dublin ,79/80..was only a nipper...one irish punt entry..,he sat on a chair with just him and his guitar wizardry and a crate of beer cans..,he and his guitar spellbound the audience uninterrupted by the empty beer cans he flung at us in between songs..been hooked ever since and he,s been a wonderful sometimes solitary and often wonderfly happy part of my life,i,ve walked through storms and crawled on all fours to get to his gigs and never been once disapointed.,just bought sundays child remastered..,is rather beautiful,having a nice dance to it,am worried to see johns health suffer and as above john..,please look after yourself...,we need you...take it away for another day....x
ellen boyle <serendipittyms@gmail.com>
ireland - Thursday, June 21, 2007 at 00:10:41 (CEST)

My wife and I saw John, for perhaps we believe the 25th time in total, at the Buxton Opera House last night. (also saw him at the Lowry, Manchester in January. Very easy to make comparisons, very difficult to pinpoint differences. John was playing well, singing well but perhaps not quite as good as the Lowry gig. Banter in between tracks was incomprehensible as mentioned previously but thats JM, no difference there. Band excellent as ever, the inclusion of Foster Patterson being an added bonus. Very clean sound and compliments John`s sound brilliantly.Sound quality overall was superb, better than the Lowry. Not sure about the audience reaction at first BUT he was given a standing ovation at the end AND many positive comments were being passed as we left the venue. Absolutely no doubt we will go and see him for the 26th time!!!. Bring on a "One World" tour.
Keith <escort15@excite.com>
Cheshire - Tuesday, May 29, 2007 at 08:19:22 (CEST)

Hi Hans, congratulations on the all new Big Muff. An excellent piece of work. All the best John
John
- Monday, May 28, 2007 at 23:37:19 (CEST)

Saw John in Nottingham on Monday night. Was very shocked by how ill and enormous he looks, and upset that his voice is suffering as a result of his health problems. Loved the gig, but I really felt that his band propped him up, he just couldn't hit the notes anymore. John, please start looking after yourself before its too late! You are a genius, don't throw it all away for drink and drugs. We need you.
Joy Sherriff <paul.hardy397@hotmail.com>
Nottingham, - Wednesday, May 23, 2007 at 14:57:27 (CEST)

Just spent 2 hours listening to the great man at The Brook in Southampton. Have loved him since London Conversation (showing my age now!!!). He was fantastic!!!!!
Kathie <harrisonkathie@hotmail.com>
Southampton , United Kingdom - Monday, April 16, 2007 at 00:51:30 (CEST)

Hi, just discovered this great website. What fun to read all the mails from fellow JM-fanatics. He shure is the greatest. I first saw him on an open air show at Regents Park, London, in 1976 (still have the tour brochure) and I am hooked ever since!!! Pity he stopped touring in Germany since the early 80`s. I hope to see him and the band again, here or somewhere else in the world. Good luck to everybody and keep the devil down. Niels!
Niels <info@filme-texte-toene.de>
Lübeck, Germany - Wednesday, April 11, 2007 at 17:56:31 (CEST)

Never met a ss better than John Martyn, his adequate mix of various musical style is brilliant. I very much regret he doesn't move here (Holland) for concerts like he used, and I went to see him everytime.
Hoogstad, Robert <arend@planet.nl>
Nooddorp, Holland - Friday, March 30, 2007 at 22:30:30 (CEST)

If you want to see John performing May You Never and really enjoying it, see his duet with Kathy Mattea on You Tube.
David Spence <davidspence1@yahoo.com>
Glanrothes, Scotland - Saturday, February 17, 2007 at 10:50:50 (CET)

I was born in South Africa and now live in Cleveland. I used to play at the Four Winds Folk Club in Port Elizabeth, South Africa for many years. It is the oldest folk music club in South Africa. In the early 70s I remember a musician playing "Bless the weather" and the song, along with its open tuning, fascinated me. I bought the album and from there on I started to listen to and play the songs of John Martyn, John Renbourn, Bert Jansch, Stefan Grossman, and others. I also was introduced to open tunings for the guitar. It was Bless the Weather that set me on a musical journey that was way outside mainstream music, and I have never looked back!
Graham Stead <g.b.stead@sbcglobal.net>
Cleveland, USA - Saturday, February 17, 2007 at 02:16:11 (CET)

Saw JM twice, the pavilion in Ayr and the Queens Hall(amazing acoustics) in Edinburgh - both fantastic! Have fallen asleep, wasted in bed at night, whilst listening to 'Small Hours', more than any other song!
Big China <big.china@hotmail.co.uk>
Scotland - Wednesday, February 07, 2007 at 12:05:01 (CET)

I have two tickets for tonights roundhouse Gig 3rd Feb at face value. Buyer collects 07979965690.
Peter Hanson <phassociates@gmail.com>
Camberley, England - Saturday, February 03, 2007 at 13:24:38 (CET)

Had the good fortune to meet JM first of many Gigs by the Great one that I went to from 1976 onwards. Met him in a pub opposite the Odeon,Edinburgh, Theartre Bar/ Stage Door.? Had a good chat and bought each other a pint, he capitulated later and played a song for his 'Friends in the front row'. Will be with me for ever now. A true gentleman and fine song writer.
Bill Beveridge <bill.beveridge@bt.com>
Burntisland, Scotland - Tuesday, January 30, 2007 at 16:34:02 (CET)

My wife and I were (once again) at the Manchester Lowry gig last night (Saturday). It was a sell out!! Concert was excellent, John in very good singing form and the band (including saxophonist)were excellent as ever. Alan Thompson really is a first rate bass player.The "Solid Air" section really was worth the ticket price alone and John`s acoustic guitar playing was a joy to behold. Very moving indeed. A "One World" tour would be amazing !!
Keith
Cheshire - Sunday, January 28, 2007 at 09:33:18 (CET)

The BBC Radio Scotland programme Classic Scottish Albums featuring Solid Air is available on the BBC web site now.
David Spence <Davidspence1@yahoo.com>
Glenrothes, Scotland - Thursday, January 25, 2007 at 23:49:54 (CET)

Attended Cardiff concert last night... loads of people there... long standing ovation at the end of evening and cries of 'one more, one more' all over the place. Really enjoyed the evening. 'Tidy' (as we do say roung ere like!) A big thank you to John and band methinks. Would love to see a One World tour sometime... Plus DVD/CD of this tour...
john <jeroberts@museumwales.com>
Caerphilly, wales - Tuesday, January 23, 2007 at 22:32:25 (CET)

I used this site for informations about an artists I really admire for years now and it's time to say: thanks a lot for this great website! keep it going please
Andy <nospam@please.com>
Hamburg, Germany - Saturday, January 20, 2007 at 01:32:06 (CET)

Great to see the big man so well represented on the web! F**k knows what Tim Stewart is talking about - Hitler?? Guess he's been on the amber nectar...... Looking forward to the tour big fella! Phil
Phil <phil.crow@yahoo.com>
Glasgow, - Tuesday, December 26, 2006 at 14:12:51 (CET)

carnt wait for the tour next year, its so good and takes you away all the best john. ps. a lot of people come to this site now the outher yen is a bit like hitler fucking sad, we think in glasgow...tim
tim stewart <timstewart@hotmail.com>
glasgow, scotland - Sunday, December 03, 2006 at 20:16:43 (CET)

Life long fan, saw him at the Bein Inn,Glenfarg las November,and discovered he does not do requests!!?? He does vary but never less than fantastic in my experience.I do believe he still enjoys the "banter" as most of it emanates from him!He mentioned on stage that he never refuses a request, but I'll let him off! Looking forward to the gig in Glasgow early next year, Jamie
James Kelly <james@hollijonandphillips.com>
Kilmacolm, Scotland - Thursday, November 16, 2006 at 14:13:25 (CET)

great to find your site,found it while listening to bless the weather.We had a pint and a smoke together one afternoon in Sligo in Ireland a few hours before you played.Thank you for your down to earth feel and the escape and stress free freedom you give through your music.Thankyou and please come back to N.Y.
Declan de burca <deaglan1@nyc.rr.com>
brooklyn,new york, u.s.a. - Monday, November 06, 2006 at 07:19:56 (CET)

I've been searching for a way to see Martyn live for 10 years ever since I received on my 20th birthday a present in the form of John Martyn's Solid Air album recorded on a tape from a friend that was 5 years older than me. He showed me a new world of playing guitar (I played guitar then for three years). Now in Croatia I finally had found the only copy of Martyn's at BBC (currently playing in my DVD) and I'm amazed, stunned and I can't take the smile of of my face... The man is joking.... the man is actually talking (not singing)... and finally I have a real person I can imagine... and hehe it's definitely a certain surprise... Love you John love your music... and finally I can see you play live (even if it's from my living room)
goran <minsc@net.hr>
Croatia - Saturday, September 30, 2006 at 12:54:06 (CEST)

HAPPY BIRTHDAY JOHN WE LOVE YOU XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX
snoooo <gloriousfall@hotmail.com>
reading, berks - Monday, September 11, 2006 at 15:04:16 (CEST)

Thank you Big Muff! I have had a wonderous melody held in my head since 1982, overheard from big bro's vinyls way back when and after long years of singing intermittent lyrics at bemused (and embarrassed)record shop assistants in the hope that they could end my seemingly endless quest; at last, tonight, I have sublime rest - Hold on to my Heart - Glorious Fool (that I am). Once again, many thanks. Dx
Dawn, Guernsey
Guernsey , Channel Islands - Thursday, August 31, 2006 at 01:11:43 (CEST)

can't wait for John's show tonight here in Italy. Hope I'll be able to talk to the man about how his music influenced me (even though I play different music). I see clouds in the sky, since it's an open air show I hope I'll be allowed to see him for the first time...
Van Cleef
Brescia, Italy - Sunday, August 13, 2006 at 15:58:57 (CEST)

Played the Queens Head Monmouth on Sunday 30th July It went down well with a good size audience. Joined on stage by Ian Day on lead guitar and a bit of funk to boot. Track Title Time 1 Some people are crazy 2 Could have been me 3 Man at the station 4 Solid Air 5 Evil 6 Make no mistake/Bless the weather 7 The Apprentice 8 Angeline 9 Big Muff 10 Couldn t love you more Second Set 1 May you never 2 Dealer/Inside Out 3 One World 4 Glorious Fool 5 Yes you can 6 Mad Dog Day 7 Looking On 8 Sweet Little Mystery 9 Johnny too bad 10 John Wayne It was strange to say the least but I think our version of Big Muff was great:) Have added a set list from Sunday and was over the Moon when contacted on Monday to be invited to Brecon Jazz due to a band dropping out. Also at the Queens Head was presented with recording of JM some time in the early 70's playing live in Germany great to see the guy playing Black Roses and Singing in the Rain. Anyway Allluck Alllove Peter
Peter Lloyd <lloydpeterjohn@fsmail.net>
Cwmbran, Wales - Thursday, August 03, 2006 at 01:36:33 (CEST)

John Martyn has a unique music style and an incredible sound. He deserves more acclaim than he receives
Paul Dixon
Bagsvaerd, Denmark - Tuesday, August 01, 2006 at 22:54:04 (CEST)

Hello John Martyn fans, I'm just back from a recording session with the man himself, he's in good form. Check out my website in the near future to hear him accompany us on our original track!
ultan conlon <ultanjohn@gmail.com>
Galway, Ireland - Friday, July 28, 2006 at 00:16:29 (CEST)

Does a recording exist of John playing on the Avalon stage at Glastonbury was it 2000. I would pay good money. If my memory serves me right then it was the just the best.
michelle cain <michicain@aol.com>
cilgerran, wales - Friday, July 21, 2006 at 21:26:50 (CEST)

Came across this on Youtube - JM and Dave Gilmour - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qevOUMMatWE&search;=%22john%20martyn%22
John
- Sunday, July 16, 2006 at 14:06:00 (CEST)

I first saw John at a benefit gig in a leisure centre in Nottingham in 1975 or 76. I don't think it was the one recorded for the 1976 album. Much alcohol was consumed that night but I seem to recall he shared the bill with Kevin Coyne and John James (?)
pimmy
stockport, - Saturday, July 15, 2006 at 16:30:52 (CEST)

When,oh when can we hear you play in Holland. It has been too long ago!!! So pack youre guitar and bring it over to Holland after all these year's!!!!
lies tredgett <lies-tredgett@hotmail.com>
Gouda, Holland - Friday, June 30, 2006 at 21:42:34 (CEST)

Many thanks for your comments re the Ayr gig. Was it the full band, certainly sounds like it. Glad you enjoyed. Looking forward to the next time he is playing live.
Keith
Cheshire, - Sunday, June 04, 2006 at 08:34:50 (CEST)

Yes Keith I was there in Ayr on the 26th. He was in magnificent form, a really excellent set, John Wayne was fantastic, he opened with Cooltide and continued with all the favourite classics, his banter and the jokes were great. He was saluted by a very long standing ovation from everyone at the end of the gig and the town was full of talk of the concert afterwards in the hostelries I visited. I am biased tho cos it was my 22nd time seeing him live and I hope to see him many more times.
Glynn Field <bigbald57@aol.com>
Beith , Scotland - Tuesday, May 30, 2006 at 11:41:28 (CEST)

Hi, Any feedback re the gig in Ayr on Friday evening? Thanks
Keith
- Monday, May 29, 2006 at 09:20:13 (CEST)

Living in London during the 1980's, I had several opportunities to see JM play live. Firstly were both nights at the Kentish Town & Country (now The Forum) which were recorded (audio & visual) for what became the "Foundations" album and VHS releases. Still gives me a buzz to watch/listen, knowing that I was actually there! Also saw a one number (Mad Dog Days) Mean Fiddler gig promoting Foundations the following year. Arriving at 7.30pm, JM didn't take the stage until around 11pm from memory - due to a flight delay from Italy. After performing MDD, John rushed from the stage and a few minutes later, his road manager announced that as John was physically ill backstage, the gig wouln't be able to continue. It was a bummer, but everyone was offered a refund or free entry to an upcoming Town & Country gig a month later, and as JM's road manager said upon the roars of disapproval when announcing the Mean Fiddler gig was to be abandoned, (thick Scottish brogue) "...Oh, come on now. You wouldn't want the man to play if he's not well, would ye?"
Stephen
Melbourne , Australia - Sunday, May 28, 2006 at 07:21:38 (CEST)

John played Dublin the other night, he opened with Cooltide which was so wonderful (and so beautiful too on the Radio 2 clip - PLEASE LISTEN) John Wayne was really powerful, massed orchestral force. I would love to see a live album from John's shows. Is there any possibilty of this at all?
Patrick Kehoe <patrick.kehoe@rte.ie>
Dublin, Ireland - Friday, May 19, 2006 at 14:27:47 (CEST)

The Newcastle gig was great and john was in good spirit and his jokes were good, however, he was on fire in Leeds. He was in great humour, happy and smiling occasionaly. A much more intimate gig with a great line-up of songs. Whether it was because I was at the front or not but he really put his heart into the hole session. Alan Thompson gave some beautiful Bass solos with Arran working away at the back and Spencer 'the professor' sealing the link of one of the finest gig's I have ever seen. I look forward to seeing the band and John for many moons, take care big fella.
Glenn
Carlisle, Cumbria - Thursday, May 18, 2006 at 12:40:08 (CEST)

Saw John last night in Leeds, was his usual self, but my God does this guy improve with age !! It would be great to see his live performances of late made available. The man is precious !!
Bill Mc Allister <bmca1@hotmail.com>
Chesterfield, UK - Tuesday, May 16, 2006 at 12:32:22 (CEST)

Was at Cardiff n Monday J a real nice show very laid back and mellow? John struggled with the effects and the guitar didn t really stand out until the last couple of numbers. Unusually he was using a Les Paul instead of the trusty SG and only a digital delay? My Creator was particularly good as was the whole set and Spencer Cozens guided the very able Colin Tully on sax in and out with great aplomb. On the bonus side my son Mark obtained the great man s towel which in turn the wife has washed and I said you just as well take it back to him on Friday in Bristol now. So until Friday Allluck Alllove Peter
PeterLloyd
Cwmbran, Wales - Wednesday, May 10, 2006 at 20:25:27 (CEST)

You know a lot of people criticised using the Glasgow Royal Concert Hall for last years John Martyn gig. They said it was too big impersonal and all that. But I went to the gig at ABC on Sauchiehall Street this month and I saw a big problem for John Martyn. The ABC is a night club and there is a bar at the back and the stage is low with only limited seating available. So we got treated to drunks going front of the stage and demanding J Martyn play their choices. He complained about the 'big man' patter and people interrupting him tuning up and all that. He was right. The John Martyn Glasgow thing is total pish - the crowd are drunk and on some idiotic nostalgia trip and not interested in John Martyn the musician but John Martyn the slot machine juke box. To be honest I thought the gig was poor compared to the concert hall gig the year before and it was down to the venue. At the concert hall people are not allowed booze in the auditorium and the venue is big and designed for proper concerts and j Martyn was excellent because the environment was right and the crowd got into the music. Yes there was shouting and all that but it got lost in the space and due to the size of the place, the manner of the place, the lack of booze and no drunks all over the place John Martyn played a very good gig and he really swung. But the ABC gig was poor by comparison. You know John Martyn looked old and tired and he just seemed a bit beleagured in the face of this dumb assed contingent who all shout and demand as though they are his pals. It is embarrassing. It is a largely middle aged crowd he gets in Glasgow and they should just know better. That whole Glasgow patter thing is really a put on and unnecessary. I am not interested in the mega-egos interfering with the show. I wanted to hear John Martyn not the crowd. I just felt he looked uncomfortable and he muffed a few songs. No wonder - even I felt uncomfortable with the pissed crowd and people standing in crowds at the bar talking and shouting. I am not a fan of the 'J Martyn can do no wrong' school of thinking and I expected a much better concert than I got (and live music isn't cheap) but whoever chose the venue needs their head tested. I can't see how J Martyn can escape that Glasgow problem unless the venues are chosen very carefully. He looks old and tired and it isn't 1975. 'On the Cobbles' was a good album because of what J Martyn has become not because of what he was. I'll be thinking twice before I go to another J Martyn concert in Glasgow because I can't be bothered with the 'lost world' the crowd inhabit and their antics.
Barry <barrymcg@ntlworld.com>
Glasgow, - Sunday, May 07, 2006 at 09:24:09 (CEST)

Is there anybody out there whos has converted John's video "Tell them I'm somebody else" to DVD? I'm desperate to get my hands on a copy and would be prepared to pay duplication and postage costs if required. Very doubtful that we'll ever see him out here in Australia again and a copy of the aforementioned DVD will help me re-live the shows that I saw in the '70's and 80's!
Mark Hulls <mark@hulls.com.au>
Melbourne, Australia - Thursday, May 04, 2006 at 05:51:07 (CEST)

Wow the gig in Glasgow on the 28 of April was superb, I have read other reports on other sites who were critical of the performance, I can only conclude that they were not really attuned to the nuances of John and his music. They should have stayed at home and listened to their albums cos John did what he always does and put his own interpretations and feelings at the time into his music. His version of Solid Air sent shivers down my spine, I had to look to the ceiling to see if Nick Drake was really there or not. Again I must remonstrate with the man who posted on John Hillarby's site Glasgow Hardmen and Patchouli oiled women (and that is how you spell Patchouli not the way he did) was utter rubbish, comments re the guy who got John a drink were again uncalled for, if the poster was so far up his own A--- he should have stayed at home. Anyway that is my rant and yes I am going to the Burns Festival to see him again. What people must realise is John has never compromised his style or his music, if you want to hear songs in the same way again and again listen to the albums and cd's dont go to a LIVE gig cos what you get is what the man puts out. Again sorry for the rant, keep up the good work great site Glynn.
Glynn Field <bigbald57@aol.com>
Beith just outside Glasgow, Ecosse Scotia Scotland - Monday, May 01, 2006 at 15:23:26 (CEST)

First saw John in Manchester at the Apollo in late 70's, seen him live 19 times, once stood next to him in a pub at Rock on the Watter in Irvine, I daren't talk to him I was over-awed. Had tickets for 2005 at Royal Concert Hall Glasgow but missed it due to silly quad heart bypass, still I am going to the gig at the ABC in Glasgow tomorrow night 28.4.2006 so that will make it 20 times. The man is a real artist and musician whose soul is everywhere in his music, I just thank him for making my life good. By the way I have been married 3 times and all three wives hated him!!!!! What do they know, gaun yersel Big Man.
Glynn Field <bigbald57@aol.com>
Beith , Scotland - Thursday, April 27, 2006 at 16:53:14 (CEST)

Played in The Kings Head Usk Friday 14th and Queens Head Monmouth 21st [with my own band]. Many of my friends attended the Usk venue. Many had not seen each other for many years so the crowd noise was dreadful but Monmouth was great, a very appreciative audience hit them with 22 tracks starting with Couldn t Love You More and finished on John Wayne. The icing on the cake for me was a couple at the Usk venue said they had been to see us three times now and really enjoyed it. I said if you like it, the Big Man himself is in Cardiff on the 8th to which they replied they had their tickets already (believe it or not had never heard his material before). I think it is about time the British Education Authority got together and made it compulsory for all children to take a new subject, perhaps call it Martynisation and drop less beneficial subjects such as English, Maths or P.E. I am sure the World would be a much nicer place. Allluck Alllove Peter (Cwmbran Wales).
PeterJohnLloyd <lloydpeterjohn@fsmail.net>
Cwmbran, Wales - Tuesday, April 25, 2006 at 22:46:29 (CEST)

Been a fan of John Martyns's music since I was 20, still love it 22 years later, recently introduced a friend to JM and he is a convert, we are going to see him this Monday at the Stables, Milton Keynes, can't wait though it does sound like a very sedate venue, will have to exhale outdoors if the ganj is being passed around.
Becky <becky_humes@hotmail.com>
Ware, England - Friday, April 21, 2006 at 20:57:27 (CEST)

Love this site. Loved john since 1980. Had every album and more til got divorced and lost most of it, still, I got the kids and house!! Looking foreward to new album and gig at Liverpool.
sue andresen <derekandsue5@msn.com>
ellesmere port, uk - Thursday, April 13, 2006 at 20:36:45 (CEST)

Does anyone out there have the words to 'Please fall in love with me' from GLORIOUS FOOL?
ariana ray <shray@onetel.com>
Brecon, Wales - Wednesday, March 29, 2006 at 16:16:05 (CEST)

This guestbook has been rebuilt from scratch and should work again now in a safer way.
Webmaster <johnmartyn@home.nl>
Tilburg, Netherlands - Tuesday, March 28, 2006 at 02:45:47 (CEST)

Due to unbelieveably persistent spamming of this guestbook I decided to disable it for a few weeks in order to see if I can get these bastards to go somewhere else.
Webmaster
- zaterdag 28 januari 2006, 13:07:55 (CET)

It's the cast iron Scottish Heart here again! Once again melted by the best JM concert to date. The Bein Inn 30th Nov. last. The only flaw was the big fella's biting sarcasm in the bar at half time, but then he is easy to forgive when he sings like only he can! We could do with some info on the pending new album, a release date would be nice? Looking forward to his next (nearish gig) Awrrabest China!! JJK
Jamie Kelly <james@hollijonandphillips.com>
Kilmacolm , Scotland - woensdag 04 januari 2006, 14:50:44 (CET)

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