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Jim Marshall: 1923-2012

Jim Marshall, known as the Father of Loud for revolutionizing the rock guitar sound, died this morning at the age of 88. Marshall, who owned a music shop in west London, served a number of high-profile customers.

Jim Marshall, known as the Father of Loud for revolutionizing the rock guitar sound, died this morning at the age of 88.

Marshall, who owned a music shop in west London, served a number of high-profile customers.

It's said that after a conversation with Pete Townshend, Marshall began work on an electric guitar amplification system that would be far more affordable than American imports at the time.

Demand quickly grew thanks to the trademark "Marshall sound" and decibel output capabilities.

The Marshall Amp Company officially formed in 1962 and the first Marshall amp factory opened in 1964.

The Marshall Company posted the following statement on the official website today:

"It is with profound sorrow that we announce the passing of our beloved founder and leader for the past 50 years, Jim Marshall. While mourning the Guv'nor though, we also salute a legendary man who led a full and truly remarkable life.

"Jim's ascent into the history books as 'the Father of Loud' and the man responsible for 'the Sound of Rock' is a true rags-to-riches tale. Cruelly robbed of his youth by tubercular bones, Jim rose to become one of the four forefathers responsible for creating the tools that allowed rock guitar as we know and love it today to be born. The groundbreaking quartet also includes the late, great trio of Leo Fender, Les Paul and Seth Lover – together with Jim, they truly are the cornerstones of all things rock.

"In addition to the creation of the amps chosen by countless guitar heroes and game-changing bands, Jim was also an incredibly humble and generous man who, over the past several decades, has quietly donated many millions of pounds to worthy causes.

"While the entire Marshall Amplification family mourns Jim's passing and will miss him tremendously, we all feel richer for having known him and are happy in the knowledge that he is now in a much better place which has just got a whole lot louder!

"Rest in Peace & thank you Jim.

"Your memory; the music and joy your amps have brought to countless millions for the past five decades; and that world-famous, omnipresent script logo that proudly bears your name will always live on."
 


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Donna Hopper

About the Author: Donna Hopper

Donna Hopper has been a photojournalist with SooToday since 2007, and her passion for music motivates her to focus on area arts, entertainment and community events.
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