Singer John Martyn dies aged 60
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Samir Hussein/Getty Images
John Martyn, who has died aged 60, performing in 2006 at The Barbican in London
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Folk and blues artist John Martyn died today, aged 60. The singer and songwriter was awarded an OBE in the New Year honours and he collaborated with artists such as Eric Clapton and Phil Collins, who paid tribute to his "infuriating" friend.
A statement on Martyn's official website said today: "With heavy heart and an unbearable sense of loss we must announce that John died this morning."
Collins said: "John's passing is terribly, terribly sad. I had worked with and known him since the late 1970s and he was a great friend.
"He was uncompromising, which made him infuriating to some people, but he was unique and we'll never see the likes of him again.
"I loved him dearly and will miss him very much."
Martyn was born Iain David McGeachy in Ssurrey, the son of two opera singers who split up when he was a child.
Brought up in Glasgow by his grandmother, he started learning to play guitar aged 15.
His debut album was released in the late 1960s and works such as Solid Air are seen as classics.
Martyn once said: "Every record I've made - bad, good, or indifferent - is totally autobiographical.
"I can look back when I hear a record and recall exactly what was going on.
"That's how I write. That's the only way I can write!
"Some people keep diaries, I make records."
His song May You Never was covered by Clapton and he is said to have inspired U2.
Martyn made an appearance at last year's Celtic Connections festival in Glasgow.
In 2003, Martyn had a leg amputated below the knee as the result of a burst cyst.
He told the Daily Mirror last year: "I wasn't too pleased about it, but whatever happens to your bod, happens."
Martyn was known for living a rock and roll lifestyle, but in later life said he drank only in moderation.
He told the newspaper: "I've been mugged in New York and luckily I fought my way out of it.
"I've been shot a couple of times as well, but I just lay down and pretended to be dead."
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Comments
MARTINBUGGY
John Martyn may not have been an easy man but beneath the anger was a gentle,spirit trying to express itself. He created music of great depth and beauty. He laid his vulnerability bear. He shared the whole range of emotions that pulled him this way and thither.
I was captivated by his music. It's provided the soundtrack for many of my best moments. He was an extraordinary songwriter and guitarist. He may have been a git but you couldn't help but love him.