Guitarist Bernie Marsden, who performed with the British rock group Whitesnake in the 1970s and 80s, has died at the age of 72.
Marsden died “peacefully” on Thursday surrounded by his wife and daughters, his family said in a statement.
He co-founded Whitesnake with David Coverdale in 1978 and co-wrote hits including “Here I Go Again” and “Fool For Your Loving”.
He also had a successful solo career, releasing two albums in the 1980s.
“Bernie never lost his passion for music, writing and recording until the end,” the family statement said.
Whitesnake lead vocalist Coverdale said he had been “honoured” to share the stage with Marsden.
“He was a true original, a fantastic guitarist and a great friend,” Coverdale said.
Marsden was born in Buckingham, England, in 1950. He started playing guitar as a teenager and performed in several local bands before turning professional with UFO in 1972.
He left UFO in 1978 to join Whitesnake, where he remained until 1981.
After leaving Whitesnake, Marsden formed the band Alaska, releasing two albums in the 1980s.
He also briefly formed the band MGM with Neil Murray and Mel Galley.
In 2011, he reunited with Whitesnake for the first time since 1981 at the Sweden Rock Festival.
Bernie Marsden Cause of Death
The cause of Bernie Marsden’s death is not yet made available to the general public.
Bernie Marsden Wife
Marsden was married to his wife, Fran.
Bernie Marsden Children
Bernie Marsden has two daughters who are Charlotte and Olivia.