When I was in school (Connecticut, US) in the 70's I used to hang out at the campus coffeehouse. I'd play there as often as they'd let me. I wrote achingly self-conscious songs that it pains me deeply to remember.

One evening I heard a performer who, unlike myself, did not suck. His name was Chris Reed. Not only did he write well, he sang well, and he played well. He had this technique on the guitar that I'd never seen before. When I asked him about it, he mentioned the name, John Martyn.

That name became a stepping stone for me. Through John Martyn, I got exposed to a broader approach to the guitar. I got exposed to Nick Drake, and eventually, Richard Thompson. He was one of the pivot points of my musical life, and I will never forget him.