John Lee Walker Vocalist Found Dead

[Music City News]

Jack Martin, former vocalist for the now defunct John Lee Walker Band, was
found dead in his vehicle in Reno, NV, on the morning of Jan. 11. Martin,
who enjoyed moderate success with The John Lee Walker Band in the mid-70s
and early 80s, apparently died as a result of acute alcohol poisoning. An
autopsy is scheduled later this week to confirm that suspicion.

Washoe County Deputy Tom Vickers arrived at 2100 S. Devonshire St after
recieving a 911 call from Martin's girlfriend that he was unresponsive after
she discovered him in the back seat of his 2004 Jeep Liberty. He was rushed
to Renown Regional Medical Center and prounounced dead on arrival at 9:20
AM.

Jack Martin, originally from Oklahoma, was recently arrested in Washoe
County for DUI in a commercial vehicle, hit and run, and possession of
illegal prescription drugs. Martin had a long history of drug and alcohol
abuse.

Martin was the lead singer for The John Lee Walker Band, who toured with
several major southern rock acts in the 70s and 80s. While never realizing
commercial success in the recording industry, The John Lee Walker Band
developed a reputation as a solid opening act for such bands as Lynyrd
Skynyrd, Charlie Daniels, and Marshall Tucker. Disbanded in the mid 80s
after managerial disputes and internal conflict, the band reunited for
several festivals in the 90s before their final breakup in 1999.

Martin, until his recent DUI arrest, worked as a commercial truck driver,
then drove a taxicab for United Cabs, in Reno.

He was 52.

Funeral services have yet to be announced.

Corey Mitchell
Music City News