The world of music is full of fascinating stories, and today we delve into one that perfectly illustrates how a great song can sometimes take a winding road to achieve its deserved recognition. We’re talking about “Bad Case of Loving You” (Doctor Doctor)”, a track that, while brilliantly crafted in its original form, truly soared to iconic status when reimagined by another artist. This isn’t just a tale of cover versions; it’s a celebration of songwriting prowess and the unpredictable journey of a song to becoming a timeless hit. So, let’s raise a glass to John ‘Moon’ Martin, the creative force behind “Bad Case of Loving You” (Doctor Doctor)”, and explore the captivating story of this rock and roll gem.
The Unsung Genius of Moon Martin
Born John Martin in Altus, Oklahoma, on Halloween 1945, Moon Martin remains somewhat of an enigma in rock history. Biographical details are scarce, but his musical DNA was clearly imprinted with the energy of rockabilly. As he honed his songwriting skills, Martin forged a unique sound, blending his rockabilly roots with the punch of rock and the infectious melodies of power pop. Seeking to make his mark, Martin journeyed to Los Angeles in the mid-1960s, aiming to carve out a career as a songwriter.
Interestingly, a recurring theme in Martin’s early songwriting revolved around celestial inspiration – the moon. This thematic leaning led to the fitting nickname ‘Moon’ Martin. In the competitive music industry, a memorable moniker can be a valuable asset, and ‘Moon’ Martin stuck. While talent and songwriting ability were undeniable, it was this space-themed nickname that initially helped him stand out in a crowded scene. But Martin’s journey was far more intertwined with the burgeoning California rock scene than just a catchy name.
Early Connections and the Linda Ronstadt Era
Digging deeper into Moon Martin’s early career reveals connections to some of the biggest names in music. He wasn’t just orbiting the stars; he was moving in the same circles as future Eagles members Don Henley and Glenn Frey, all within Linda Ronstadt’s orbit. Ronstadt’s self-titled third album credits Moon Martin’s contributions to a studio rendition of Johnny Cash’s “I Still Miss Someone” and recordings from live performances at the legendary Troubadour club in Los Angeles in 1971.
Image alt text: Linda Ronstadt performing live at The Troubadour, a pivotal venue in her early career and where Moon Martin contributed to her live recordings.
Moon Martin’s backing vocals can be heard on “I Still Miss Someone,” adding depth to Ronstadt’s interpretation of the Johnny Cash classic. He also lent his guitar skills to a live cover of Neil Young’s “Birds,” contributing to a performance so captivating you could hear a pin drop before the audience’s enthusiastic applause. His final contribution to the Linda Ronstadt album was on “Rescue Me,” where his guitar work elevated Ronstadt’s already powerful cover of the Aretha Franklin hit.
These collaborations placed Moon Martin firmly within the vibrant Los Angeles music scene. He was, metaphorically speaking, “soaring with the eagles,” and this proximity ultimately led to a recording contract with Capitol Records. Ironically, this was the same label that had previously dropped Ronstadt after her self-titled album, despite Martin’s involvement, failed to achieve chart success. Nevertheless, Moon Martin had his record deal.
From Capitol Dreams to Cover Song Success
Despite securing a major label deal, possessing a wealth of original material, and being connected to a network of rising artists in the 1970s, Moon Martin’s solo career never quite reached the stratosphere. Between 1978 and 1985, he released albums that spawned a handful of minor hits in the US and Australia, but true mainstream success remained elusive. Interestingly, two of his most significant contributions to the music world turned out to be songs that found greater fame through other artists’ interpretations.
The first of these was “Cadillac Walk,” covered by Willy ‘Mink’ DeVille in 1977. DeVille’s rendition brought Martin’s songwriting to a wider audience and highlighted his knack for crafting catchy, memorable tunes, often with a touch of lyrical quirkiness, as evidenced by the “moon” reference in “Cadillac Walk.”
However, it was the second song, “Bad Case of Loving You” (Doctor Doctor)”, that truly cemented Moon Martin’s legacy. Originally released as a single in the UK and Spain by Capitol Records, the track gained some traction, prompting Capitol to include it on Martin’s 1978 album “Shot from a Cold Nightmare.” While Martin’s original version is undeniably strong, it was Robert Palmer who would ultimately unlock the song’s full potential for global stardom.
Robert Palmer’s Midas Touch: “Doctor Doctor” Takes Center Stage
Robert Palmer, known for his sophisticated and eclectic musical taste, recognized the inherent hit quality within “Bad Case of Loving You.” He recorded his version for his 1979 album “Secrets,” and it was Palmer’s rendition that catapulted the song to international fame.
Image alt text: Robert Palmer performing on stage, his cover of “Bad Case of Loving You (Doctor Doctor)” became a global hit and one of his signature songs.
Interestingly, Palmer’s record label executives added “(Doctor Doctor)” to the title, perhaps to emphasize the song’s playful and slightly tongue-in-cheek medical metaphor for love sickness. Initially, even Palmer’s version didn’t immediately explode. It was the US market that truly embraced the song, driving it to #14 on the charts. Even more impressively, Canadian audiences propelled “Bad Case of Loving You” (Doctor Doctor)” all the way to the coveted #1 spot.
Moon Martin had penned a number-one hit, albeit through another artist’s interpretation. For over four decades, the royalties from “Bad Case of Loving You” (Doctor Doctor)” provided Martin with a comfortable living. This success arrived during an era when a single smash hit could sustain a songwriter or artist for years. Even after Capitol dropped him in 1985 after his fifth album, the song’s enduring popularity ensured Martin’s financial stability. He had reached the pinnacle of songwriting success, even if indirectly, and he embraced this achievement, continuing to create music, releasing four more studio albums between 1992 and 1999, as well as a live album and a “Best of” compilation.
The Enduring Legacy and Beyond: “Doctor Doctor” in the 21st Century
Sadly, John ‘Moon’ Martin passed away from natural causes one year prior to the original blog post, leaving behind a legacy deeply intertwined with “Bad Case of Loving You” (Doctor Doctor)”. The song remains etched in our musical consciousness, a testament to Martin’s songwriting talent and the magic that happens when the right song finds the right interpreter.
To celebrate the song’s lasting appeal, consider the high-energy rendition by Billy Gibbons of ZZ Top alongside the legendary Les Paul, featured on the album “Les Paul and Friends: American Made, World Played.” Their version injects a raw, guitar-driven energy into the song, highlighting its rock and roll heart.
Image alt text: Billy Gibbons and Les Paul performing together, their collaboration on “Bad Case of Loving You (Doctor Doctor)” showcases the song’s cross-generational appeal.
Furthermore, demonstrating Moon Martin’s popularity in the Southern Hemisphere, Australian band Adam Brand and the Outlaws have also put their own spin on “Bad Case of Loving You,” further proving the song’s transcontinental appeal and enduring popularity across genres.
“Bad Case of Loving You” (Doctor Doctor)” serves as a reminder that sometimes the biggest hits reside “under the covers.” It’s crucial to remember and appreciate the songwriters who lay the foundation for these musical moments. Every musician, in their own way, pays their dues, working under the sun, or in Moon Martin’s case, perhaps under a rock and roll moon.
