He grew up in Glasgow and attended Shawlands Academy. John Martyn moved to London from Glasgow in the mid 1960s. He made his initial recorded impact in 1967, at the age of 19, with his debut album London Conversation. He then quickly became an integral part of the British music scene, incorporating Folk, Blues, and Jazz into his unique sound.
In the late 60s to early 70s he was close friends with Nick Drake, for whom he wrote the song Solid Air. The album of the same name remains an extremely moving album, as does the later Grace and Danger which documents his divorce from his wife Beverley with whom he recorded several albums (as John & Beverley Martyn).
During the 70s John lived in Hastings on the South Coast of England. Whilst in Hastings he released, amongst others, the Live At Leeds album which he sold from his own house. Also during his time in Hastings John tried to help Paul Kossoff put his life back together.
A long held alcohol problem didn't prevent Martyn from releasing twenty-two albums. In 2003 he contracted an infection that resulted in the amputation of part of a leg, an episode documented in the 2004 BBC documentary "Johnny Too Bad". He recovered, however, and continued to play, record and tour. In 2008, he was presented with the Lifetime Achievement Award at the BBC Folk Awards. He has influenced many songwriters and guitarists and is an artist whose stature only grows with time. He worked with artists such as Eric Clapton, Phil Collins, David Gilmour and Levon Helm.
Sadly, he passed away on 29th January 2009.
A tribute album entitled Johnny Boy Would Love this…a Tribute to John Martyn was released on 15 August 2011, comprising cover versions of his songs by various artists who he had worked with or influenced.
The Man In The Station
John Martyn Lyrics
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There's a face in the mirror that's showing the strain
There's a woman in the dark that's standing apart
There's a love in the man that's breaking his heart
But it's alright, I'm catching the next train home
The next train home
There's one more circle I'm dying to try
There's a piece of my heart that's dying to fly
There's a baby in the woman that's waiting to cry
But it's alright, I'm catching the next train home
The next train home
There's got to be a way for a lazy face and
Get up and start loving the human race
There's just got to be a way for a crazy face
Get out from under this paper chase
But it's alright, I'm catching the next train home
Next train home
There's a man in the station and a train in the rain
There's a face in the mirror that's showing the strain
There's a woman in the dark that's standing apart
There's a love in the man that's breaking his heart
But it's alright, I'm catching the next train home
Next train home
In John Martyn's song, "The Man in the Station," the artist paints a picture of several individuals dealing with different struggles in their lives. The first verse describes a man waiting for a train in a rainy station, possibly feeling alone or lost. The reference to a face in the mirror suggests someone struggling with their appearance, and the woman in the dark can represent a figurative darkness surrounding her. The man's love is breaking his heart, possibly because of separation or distance. Despite these challenges, the singer seems to find comfort in knowing he can soon catch a train and leave, indicating a longing for resolution or escape.
In the second verse, there is a longing for change, represented by the phrase "there's one more circle I'm dying to try." The questions from the piece of the head and the dying piece of the heart suggest a desire for answers or direction. The image of a baby waiting to cry symbolizes emotions waiting to be released. Still, the singer again finds solace in the thought of catching the next train home, suggesting that no matter how hard things get, he knows he can escape it and return to a familiar place.
The final verse shifts focus to the broader human condition, with the idea of searching for a way to love and connect with others more fully. The lyrics suggest frustration with a system that prioritizes work and material gain, but again the image of catching the next train home implies that there is always hope for a better future. Overall, the song offers a sense of comfort in the face of hardship, reminding listeners that they are not alone and can find a way forward.
Line by Line Meaning
There's a man in the station and a train in the rain
There is a man waiting at the station, with a train ready to depart in the pouring rain.
There's a face in the mirror that's showing the strain
The face that's reflected in the mirror appears stressed and exhausted.
There's a woman in the dark that's standing apart
A lady is standing alone in the darkness, separated from others.
There's a love in the man that's breaking his heart
The guy is deeply in love, but the strength of his emotions is causing him heartache.
But it's alright, I'm catching the next train home
Despite the troubles and complications, the singer will return home on the next available train and be fine.
There's one more circle I'm dying to try
The singer has another attempt he desires to make.
There's a piece of my head that's asking why
A section of the singer's mind is questioning the reason behind certain actions.
There's a piece of my heart that's dying to fly
A certain aspect of the singer's heart desires to take flight and pursue freedom.
There's a baby in the woman that's waiting to cry
A woman is suppressing her emotions, and there is a part of her that wishes to shed tears.
But it's alright, I'm catching the next train home
Despite the uncertainty and apprehension, the individual will be relieved when they arrive safely home.
There's got to be a way for a lazy face and
For someone who appears lazy and sluggish, there must be a way to become productive and active.
Get up and start loving the human race
It is important to overcome idleness, stand up, and engage with others with love and compassion.
There's just got to be a way for a crazy face
Even if someone's face appears crazy or abnormal, there must be a way to promote understanding and acceptance.
Get out from under this paper chase
It is necessary to escape the rat race and the exhausting cycle of work and financial pursuits.
Next train home
The singer is resolute in their decision to return home as soon as possible.
Lyrics © BMG Rights Management
Written by: John Martyn
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind