Dr. James Marshall, who revolutionized the music industry as the founder of Marshall Amplification, has passed away on April 5th, 2012 at the age of 88. Fondly referred to as the man responsible for ‘the Sound of Rock,’ a nice remembrance of Jim’s life and achievements in music can be found at This Link.
Guitarist Slash, who had a long professional relationship as well as personal friendship with Marshall offered this statement:
“I consider myself very fortunate to have known the late Jim Marshall. He was such a fantastic individual. Not only did he create the loudest, most effective, brilliant-sounding Rock & Roll amplifier ever designed, but he was a caring, hardworking family man who remained true to his integrity to the very end. His work ethic was unequaled and his passion unrivaled. He took great care of me personally, as one of his loyal fans and Marshall Amp enthusiasts, ever since we first met in the early 90’s. At that time, he did the unprecedented; he had the first-ever Artist Model Marshall series designed for me when my Marshall amps were destroyed in a Guns N Roses concert riot in St. Louis in 1991. We had been friends ever since.
Jim cared for all his customers like they were his family. He would do whatever it took to make sure an artist was completely satisfied and he made sure his staff did likewise. It was very important to him that Marshall quality and customer care was paramount. Jim’s passing marks the end of a very loud and colorful era. From Pete Townshend to Kerry King, Marshall Amplifiers have been behind every great Rock & Roll guitarist since the beginning. Marshall Amplification is one of the most enduring, iconic brands of contemporary music history. This industry will likely never see the likes of Jim again. But his legacy will live on forever.”
Today, I humbly and respectfully flash the “metal horns” in Dr. Marshall’s honor. Rock on Jim!
While I did not use Marshall amps (I’m a Fender and Boogie guy) I very much appreciated the Marshall sound as many of my favorite artists and bands used them. I’ll always smile thinking of the rows of stacks looming on the backline of many a ’70s and ’80s band. I also will remember fondly stealing away to the local music store in Pomona during breaks in my high-school schedule to ogle and cover the 200W Marshall Major. RIP Sr. Marshall – we shall miss you.