Who was Bernie Marsden? Whitesnake Guitarist Dead at 72

Bernie Marsden was the guitarist of popular band, Whitesnake. He formed the band with former Deep Purple vocalist David Coverdale and guitarist Micky Moody.

The name of the band was initially called David Coverdale’s Whitesnake, and then gradually changed into Whitesnake. The band’s first EP, first five albums, and a live album including Snakebite, Trouble, Lovehunter, Ready Ready & Willing, Live In The Heart of The City, Come An’ Get It, Saints & Sinners, and more.

Marsden died from bacterial meningitis – a severe infection that affects the membranes around the brain and spinal cord. He was 72 years old.

“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 & Olivia, by his side. Bernie never lost his passion for music, writing, and recording until the end,” his family shared in a written statement via social media.