Martin Carthy - Biography

With more than 40 years as one of folk music’s giants, Martin is without a doubt, one of the most respected musicians on the scene. Having inspired generations of artists and often cited as an influence of both, Bob Dylan and Paul Simon, his distinctive performing style and use of alternate tunings makes him a true innovator, that coupled with his charisma and natural stage presence have won him an army of fans which spans musical genres and locations.

Having formed musical partnerships with, Dave Swarbrick, Steeleye Span, Brass Monkeys, and both his wife Norma Waterson and daughter Eliza Carthy, Martin has released over 40 albums, 15 of which solo.

Having originally trained as an actor, Martin began his working life as an assistant stage manager; gradually drifting into performing in the coffee houses that were springing up around London during the late 50’s. Joining the Redd Sullivan's Thameside Four with whom he performed for the following three years, however, the demand for Martin was so high that he began solo performances and by the early 60’s he was resident at the Troubador folk club in Earls Court.

His debut album “Martin Carthy” was released during 1965. With the follow up album the next year, imaginatively entitled “second album” with both featuring renowned fiddle player Dave Swarbrick, a partnership which was to continue for many years with albums including Byker Hill, But Two Came By, No Songs and Prince Heathen

Between 1967-69 Martin released a further three albums, Rags, reels and Airs, The Bonny Black Hare, and No Songs. From 1969, Martin spent three years as a member of revolutionary folk rock band Steeleye Span; it was here he first played electric guitar and featured on albums including Please to See the King, Ten Man Mop, Storm Force Ten and Live At Last

Over the years Martin has been involved in many collaborations including the Albion Country Band and as an original member of the pioneering Brass Monkeys, a group which mixes a range of instruments alongside Martins mandolin and Guitar.

Since 1972 Martin has also performed as part of with the Watersons, featuring his wife Norma. And later Waterson:Carthy, a collaboration of the first family of folk featuring Martin with Norma and daughter Eliza.

Regarded by many as the Godfather of Folk, Martin is known for his distinctive playing style, his use of alternate tunings and percussive picking style which highlights any piece of music.

In 1998, his long and distinguished career and his enthusiasm for folk and traditional music led him to be awarded the MBE for services to English Music, and with Awards including Singer of the Year, - BBC Radio 2 Folk Awards 2002 & 2005 Martin is, and continues to be a true Maestro.

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