On Thursday (8.24) the original guitarist for Whitesnake and co-writer of several of the rock band’s biggest hits, Bernie Marsden died at the age of 72.
Taking to the musician’s Instagram page, Marsden’s family issued a statement along with a photo of the artist smiling at the camera. “On behalf of his family, it is with deep sadness we announce the death of Bernie Marsden. Bernie died peacefully on Thursday evening with his wife, Fran, and daughters, Charlotte and Olivia, by his side. Bernie never lost his passion for music, writing and recording new songs until the end.”
Part of the iconic band’s original lineup – including frontman David Cloverdale, bassist Neil Murray, guitarist Mick Moody and drummer Dave Dowie – Marsden played with Whitesnake from 1978 to 1982 and co-wrote the band’s biggest hit “Here I Go Again,” which he re-recorded with his bandmates in 1987. In October of 1987 the song went #1 on the Billboard Hot 100 songs chart and spent 28 total weeks on the pop list. Bernie also co-wrote “Fool for Your Loving,” which peaked at #37 in 1989.
During his four-year stint with Whitesnake, the guitarist played on the band’s first five LPs, including Trouble (1978,) Lovehunter (1979,) Ready an’ Willing (1980,) Come an’ Get It (1981,) and Saints & Sinners (1982.)
After leaving Whitesnake, Marsden performed with a number of other bands including the Moody Marsden Band and Alaska, and also released a number of solo albums, including with his most recent project, Trios (August 2022.)
Click here for more of the Marsden family social media post.
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Author: Al Denté
Photo: Jan Slob