Bernie playing Rory’s Stratocaster in 1996
I recall first meeting gentleman Bernie back in the 70s. His band had been signed up by our then agents, Quarry Productions ( above the old Marquee Club), he enthused about my brother and I said “well he’s down the corridor, why not say hello yourself”.
Once introduced, Rory and Bernie were like magnets and all headed down to The Ship pub, on Wardour Street.
Over the years, the two guitarists would meet on the road and bond together in music language.
Following my brother’s passing, dear Bernie was one of the first musicians to call and to pay tribute to Rory. On the phone call, Bernie asked if he could play my sibling’s Stratocaster, so, at the Buxton Opera House tribute concert, I had no hesitation in letting Bernie be the first guitarist to perform with the instrument and Marsden did Rory’s orphaned guitar proud.
In guitar heaven, I’m sure the two musicians are jamming and discussing the merits of their instruments. Bless you Bernie, it’s sad to see you head on to the next life but you leave wonderful memories and music with us. With my sincere condolences to all the Marsden family.
Dónal Gallagher