Beverley Martyn, Influential British Folk Singer, Dies at 79

Beverley Martyn, a prominent figure in the British folk music scene known for her collaborations with artists like Jimmy Page, Donovan, and Nick Drake, has died at the age of 79. The news was announced by the family of her former husband, singer-songwriter John Martyn, on Monday, April 27, 2026.

Early Life and Career Beginnings

Born Beverley Kutner near Coventry in 1947, Martyn moved to London in her mid-teens to pursue drama school. She quickly became involved in the burgeoning folk music scene of the early 1960s. She honed her guitar skills under the tutelage of British folk legend Bert Jansch, who was also an early boyfriend.

Martyn first gained recognition as a member of the group the Levee Breakers, releasing the single “Babe I’m Leaving You” in 1965. She later embarked on a solo career, signing with Deram Records and releasing “Happy New Year” in 1966. This single, written by Randy Newman, featured a stellar lineup of session musicians including Jimmy Page and John Paul Jones, who would soon form Led Zeppelin, alongside Nicky Hopkins and Andy White.

Collaborations and Musical Partnerships

Jimmy Page later reflected on the recording session for “Happy New Year,” stating, “It was a remarkable session, at the time it was recorded I knew that she was a shining talent in the world of performance and songwriting.”

Throughout her career, Martyn collaborated with a diverse range of artists, including Donovan, who penned the song “Museum” for her. She also developed a friendship with Paul Simon during his time in London, contributing to the Simon & Garfunkel album Bookends and performing with him at the Monterey Pop Festival in 1967.

In 1969, she married John Martyn, and the pair formed a musical duo, releasing two albums in 1970. Their collaborative period was relatively short-lived, as John Martyn later focused on his solo career.

Later Years and Legacy

Martyn faced challenges in maintaining her career momentum following her marriage and subsequent divorce from John Martyn in 1980, citing his struggles with alcohol and substance abuse as a contributing factor. She briefly paused her musical pursuits to focus on family life.

In 2014, Martyn released her debut solo album, reflecting on the experience by saying, “It was a great relief to finally do something on my own terms.” She also completed the song “Reckless Jane,” which she had begun writing with Nick Drake, who had previously babysat for her children.

Beverley Martyn’s passing marks the end of an era for British folk music, leaving behind a legacy of collaboration, talent, and resilience. She is remembered as a “remarkable woman of great inner strength,” as described by her family.