Remembering Marty Williamson
It is with great sadness that we have learned of the sudden and unexpected passing of our dear friend and former bandmate, Marty Williamson.
Marty joined us in the band’s formative years when we were transitioning from The Setz to Silent Running (it was Marty who actually came up with that name).
We had some great times together, including playing gigs with Dr Feelgood and The Teardrop Explodes, and making some of our first recordings.
Marty was funny and kind, and above all flamboyant — both in his appearance and in his guitar playing, which was innovative and technically brilliant. He took inspiration from players like Adrian Belew and from his beloved Killing Joke.
He later went on to have a very successful career, playing with the likes of The Psychedelic Furs, and there is plenty of video evidence on YouTube of just how good he was.
Marty also had a real talent for restoration, and he was never happier than when he was bringing beaten-up and wrecked vintage guitars back to their former glory.
Thankfully, we reconnected with him after many years and had numerous long, warm and funny conversations.
This is the first time we have lost a band member, and to say this has come as a shock is quite an understatement.
Our hearts go out to the family he has left behind, and we send them our love and deepest condolences.
It’s normally traditional to finish these things by wishing RIP, but in Marty’s case perhaps it’s better just to say:
“Keep blastin’, mate — wherever you are. We will always remember you.”
From the Silent Runners x
