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John Martin Obituary
He wrote the songs Bad Case of Loving You (Doctor Doctor) made famous by Robert Palmer and Cadillac Walk recorded by Willy DeVille. He also recorded many solo albums including Shots From A Cold Nightmare, Escape From Domination which featured the Top 30 hit Rolene and Street Fever which featured the hit Bad News which reached the Top 10 in France. The nickname Moon was hung on him by friends years ago because many of his songs had the word moon in the lyrics. He is survived by a brother Howard Martin, a sister Mary Sue Martin, two nieces and a legion of rock fans, musicians and artists who will miss his kindness and generosity but will enjoy his musical legacy forever.
A memorial service is planned at a later date.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for John Martin
Paul Urbanus
August 5, 2024
Although I never met Moon Martin or got to see him play, I was an instant fan on my first listen Escape From Domination. Had I not been working at a record and tape store I likely would have missed his talents. Can't say how many times I've played that album.
Escape is one of those albums where *every* song is excellent. I never understood why he didn't make it big.
I just learned of his passing. RIP, Moon, and thanks for all the listening pleasure you gave us.
Alan Williams
July 8, 2024
I owned all of Moon´s albums and would play them endlessly. A musical force to be reckoned with. Rest in peace, Sir.
Melissa Urciuoli
June 16, 2024
I will always treasure the memories I shared with Johnny, he was my confident, and I miss him so much. I think about him often, and hope someday to meet him again. His memory burns in my heart. I love you so, my sweet friend!
Cicci Serra
April 17, 2021
I bought Shots at age 14 and I never missed his albums, maybe I'm the only one Italian Fan but his music never die!
Ciao Moon
Cicci
Benji Rodgers
February 20, 2021
Always one of my favorite artists. I started listening to Moon’s music in 1977. I saw him live once in Houston, Texas at the Agora Ballroom along with Nick Lowe and Dave Edmunds. He and his music are missed!
Glenn Brigaldino
January 15, 2021
Always enjoyed his melodic and powerful songs , first heard him in my early twenties. At the time I was one of the very few in Germany who knew of him, which made me feel special - because Moon was too.
Dougie Messenger
October 19, 2020
He was a prince of a man! Bright, funny, a deep thinker, straight shooter, loyal friend. Assiduous worker with a serious interest in economics.
Julie Rooker Klie
June 12, 2020
I grew up with Johnny Martin in Altus. I was a year behind in school, but we all had friends across grades, and ages. I remember going to his house, and he had just gotten a new guitar. He was so excited. It was the beginning none of us could see coming. I went to prom with him when I was a freshman, and he was a sophomore. After he graduated, he immediately packed up, and started his journey in music. Most of us also left on our own journeys, leaving Altus. I was very proud of him for following his dreams. Rest in Peace.
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