Martin Turner on Wishbone Ash, Madfish Box Sets, and the Timeless Power of Song
It’s not every day that you get to sit down with one of the creative forces behind some of the most enduring albums in British rock history. In this special Now Spinning Magazine podcast episode, I was joined by Martin Turner, bassist, vocalist, and founding member of Wishbone Ash.
From the iconic Argus to the melodic punch of New England, Martin’s contributions as a writer, singer, and arranger shaped the band’s unique identity — a blend of harmonious twin guitars, thought-provoking lyrics, and a positive musical spirit that still resonates today.
On the Madfish Box Sets
We began with the acclaimed reissue programme from Madfish/Snapper Music — including The Vintage Years, Living Proof, No Easy Road, The BBC Sessions, and the forthcoming There’s The Rub set. Martin credits label manager Ian Crockett as a “musical detective” — unearthing long-lost photos, rare tapes, and unreleased gems by tracking down photographers and climbing into lofts for unseen treasures.
“I’d been lugging heavy two-inch multitrack tapes around for 50 years,” Martin laughed. “It’s amazing how much survived — and what the team have managed to find.”
Behind the Albums
Martin revealed fascinating backstories from different eras — from There’s The Rub and the band’s relocation to America, to working with legendary producer Tom Dowd under difficult personal circumstances. Dowd’s struggles during the Locked In sessions left the band disillusioned with producers for years.
Yet adversity also led to triumphs — including New England, recorded largely in a makeshift home studio. Tracks like “In All My Dreams You Rescue Me” capture Wishbone Ash at their melodic, guitar-weaving best.
The King Will Come — Then and Now
We spoke at length about “The King Will Come,” one of Martin’s signature compositions from Argus. Rooted partly in biblical imagery and partly in Kahlil Gibran’s The Prophet, Martin was careful to frame it as a song about reflection, not advocacy for war. Sequenced to flow into “Throw Down the Sword,” the two songs create a powerful anti-war statement.
Decades later, the song feels more relevant than ever:
“It’s amazing how fresh it still sounds,” Martin said. “It could fit any period of time. That’s unusual.”
Personal Loss and “Everybody Needs a Friend”
One of the most moving moments in our conversation was when Martin shared the story behind “Everybody Needs a Friend” from Wishbone Four. Written to comfort his first wife after the sudden loss of her mother, the song has since touched countless fans.
“People come up to me and say it was played at their mum’s funeral. It’s humbling — that a song I wrote for one person can mean so much to so many.”
Life, Death, and “Lifeline”
Martin also recounted a deeply personal experience that inspired “Lifeline” from Just Testing — a vivid vision of his grandmother visiting him at the moment of her passing. It’s a story of love, connection, and the mysterious ways music captures life’s most profound moments.
Classical Influences
Growing up surrounded by classical music, Martin still draws inspiration from composers like Shostakovich, Rachmaninoff, and Tchaikovsky. He even adapted a chord sequence from Ravel’s Piano Concerto in G into “Everybody Needs a Friend” — proof of how classical textures helped shape Wishbone Ash’s melodic identity.
Still On the Road
Martin is preparing for an extensive UK tour, with dates and tickets available via martinturnermusic.com. Despite any past tensions within the Wishbone Ash family, Martin remains proud of the legacy and grateful for the fans who keep the music alive.
Visit the Martin Turner Ex Wishbone Ash Website
Phil Aston | Now Spinning Magazine
