The music world mourns the passing of rock icon Bernie Marsden, who peacefully left us on August 24th, 2023, at the age of 72. Marsden, celebrated for his multifaceted talents as a songwriter, guitar hero, and even an occasional actor, was remembered not just for his artistic prowess but for his immense heart and approachable nature.
Fans and peers alike have flooded social media with loving tributes, reflecting on Marsden’s warmth, wit, and engaging demeanor. Throughout his six-decade career, he remained ever-ready to stop and chat with admirers, sharing fascinating tales and amusing anecdotes.
Despite a prolific career, including the recent release of three solo albums – ‘Kings,’ ‘Chess,’ and ‘Trios’ – as part of his Inspirations series, few knew that Marsden had just completed his latest project. In August, he finalized the artwork, sequence, and audio masters for ‘Working Man’ an album featuring all-original songs.
Fran Marsden, Bernie’s wife of over 40 years, expressed Bernie’s passion for ‘Working Man’: “Bernie was really excited about his new album, Working Man, and proud of the tracks featured on it. After the last three albums of covers, he was keen for his fans to hear some new, original songs. He loved working on them in the studio during lockdown and couldn’t wait to get the album out into the world.”
Despite contemplation by Conquest Music to delay the release until 2024 out of respect, Fran Marsden insisted on honoring Bernie’s wishes. Alan Bambrough, speaking on behalf of Conquest Music, emphasized their deep connection with Bernie, stating, “We are heartbroken at Bernie’s passing and thought the right and respectful thing to do would be to postpone the release until next year. Fran Marsden convinced us that Bernie would want the ‘Working Man’ album to come out as planned.”
As originally intended the album is released today (Friday, November 24th) consisting of 12 new tracks penned by Bernie Marsden, was produced by Marsden himself and mixed by Dave Eringa (Manic Street Preachers, The Who).
The limited first pressing of the LP & CD will include a bonus disc featuring 10 additional new recordings. ‘Being Famous’ the album’s first single, is already available on digital services. The track, reflecting Bernie’s humble take on rock star decadence, captures the classic early Whitesnake feel adored by fans.
‘Working Man’ is available in a limited edition 2CD Digipak and 2LP set in Burgundy vinyl. These sets will include a bonus disc with 10 more new recordings, featuring remarkable reinterpretations of classic Whitesnake songs.
Fans eager to secure their copy can order the album from the special Bernie Marsden shop here, where they also have a chance to win one of five special lithographic prints hand-signed by Bernie. Each order will include an exclusive free Collectors’ Card. Bernie Marsden’s musical legacy continues to shine brightly.
