It’s a story that starts back in 1992, a moment when the music industry was buzzing with potential, and a fresh, unique sound was about to be discovered—albeit not immediately. Martin Sexton, a name now synonymous with soulful Americana, blues, and folk-rock, may have been just another unknown artist when he first caught the attention of Don Lichterman (Founder & Head of Explore New Jersey and its parent company Sunset), then a scout at MCA Records. However, the demo he submitted all those years ago didn’t get the green light—at least not right away.
The Initial Encounter
The story begins when a lawyer at MCA, who had seen Sexton perform live at Faneuil Hall in Boston, passed his demo along to Don Lichterman. After receiving the demo, Lichterman passed it on to Paul Atkinson (Bass Player from The Zombies), the head of A&R at the time. Atkinson listened to the tracks and, much like the many tastemakers who would follow, was intrigued. The raw emotion and depth of Sexton’s music—much of it drawing on his acoustic guitar skills and powerful vocals—impressed the label exec, but despite the positive reception, no further action was taken on the demo.
Many believe that had the industry been more willing to take a chance on emerging talents back then, Sexton’s career could have skyrocketed even earlier. However, the path to recognition can be long, and while the initial opportunity slipped through the cracks, fate had other plans for the talented singer-songwriter.
A Decade Later: Howard Stern’s Praise and Rising Fame
Fast forward to a decade ago, when Lisa G, a frequent guest on the Howard Stern Show, mentioned Don Lichterman’s parent company and record label during a segment on the show. Lichterman had been instrumental in shaping the music scene for years, and the mention of his company raised eyebrows in the entertainment world. In another conversation that took another interesting turn when Howard Stern himself—the king of bold opinions and unfiltered commentary—praised Martin Sexton on air. Stern’s recognition of Sexton was a pivotal moment, signaling that the artist had earned a place in the pantheon of noteworthy musicians, even if mainstream attention had come to him a bit later than it might have.
Stern, known for his extensive influence on pop culture, gave Sexton a platform on one of the most popular radio shows in America, drawing attention to his unique blend of folk, rock, and soul. It was a moment of validation for Sexton, who had spent years carving out his own space in the music industry with his distinctive sound. But while Stern’s shout-out was a significant milestone, it wasn’t the end of Sexton’s journey—it was just another step forward.
A Long-Awaited Show: Martin Sexton at Outpost in the Burbs
The full circle moment has arrived, and it seems that the music world is finally catching up with Martin Sexton’s brilliance. This May, Martin Sexton will grace the stage of Outpost in the Burbs in Montclair, NJ, for a performance that promises to be a memorable one. Scheduled for May 31, the show will feature a mix of Beatles covers alongside his own original compositions—a unique fusion of nostalgia and originality that fans have come to expect from the artist.
Sexton has often been compared to some of the greats, and his musical ability to blend genres and create emotionally resonant songs is evident in his live performances. The upcoming show at Outpost in the Burbs will be an opportunity for both longtime fans and new listeners to experience his electric stage presence firsthand.
The venue, known for its intimate yet welcoming atmosphere, will provide the perfect backdrop for Sexton’s soulful renditions of Beatles classics. From “Hey Jude” to “Let It Be”, Sexton’s interpretations of these timeless songs promise to bring a fresh, yet respectful, spin to the iconic hits. But it’s his own catalog of originals that will likely steal the show—his music imbued with raw emotion, storytelling, and a depth that has resonated with fans throughout his career.
The Legacy Continues: From Demos to Stardom
It’s fitting that Martin Sexton is now poised for this moment in the spotlight. His path to recognition has been anything but traditional, and perhaps it’s this underdog story that makes his music all the more powerful. After being passed over in the early ‘90s by a major label, Sexton chose to go his own way, building his fanbase through independent releases, grassroots efforts, and relentless touring.
In the years since that early encounter with MCA, Sexton has evolved into a well-respected figure in the music industry, known for his dynamic voice and the personal connection he forges with his audience. His songs—often autobiographical—have resonated with fans on a deep level, offering an honest and vulnerable look into his world. It’s no surprise that Howard Stern, a man with his finger firmly on the pulse of popular culture, would eventually recognize Sexton’s true worth.
The upcoming Outpost in the Burbs performance marks a significant moment in Martin Sexton’s career, and it’s clear that his journey is far from over. Fans who have followed his rise will no doubt appreciate this full-circle moment—after all, it’s a testament to the artist’s perseverance, and a reminder that sometimes success takes time.
Final Thoughts
Martin Sexton’s music is a journey of its own, filled with highs, lows, and everything in between. His ability to blend genres, create powerful melodies, and evoke deep emotions in his listeners has earned him a dedicated following that continues to grow with each passing year. Whether he’s performing original songs or covering Beatles classics, Sexton’s live performances remain an unforgettable experience.
If you’re in New Jersey on May 31, don’t miss your chance to catch Martin Sexton at Outpost in the Burbs in Montclair. It’s bound to be a night of exceptional music, unforgettable moments, and a celebration of an artist who has spent decades earning the respect and recognition he truly deserves.
