It is with a heavy heart this afternoon that Hot Press reports the news that Dr Jim Marshall OBE has passed away.
From the Marshall company's founding some half a century ago, Jim Marshall had been an ever-present figure on the music scene, shaping culture and society decade after decade.
Marshall began his career in the drum kit business, but it was his move into the world of amplification that not only changed his life, but the course of popular music as a whole. Using the Fender Bassman circuit as a model, he spent the early '60s trying to create a new type of valve guitar amp, arriving at that famous "Marshall Sound" with his sixth prototype.
From there, the hottest acts of the time started employing his kit, including a young Jimi Hendrix, and as the brand and reputation grew and grew, Marshall became the go-to amp for the biggest artists in the world.

Lesley Kane of Marshall was a close personal friend of the late, great man and found the time to pen a heartfelt, fitting tribute to him:

"We have lost our Guv'nor
The Father of Loud for 50 years.
Jim was a pioneer, an innovator and a leader but above all things he was one of the kindest, gentlest people I have ever known.
He was so proud of his Irish heritage, a fact he reminded us of on his frequent visits to Ireland.
A long time member of the Lions Club- his generosity knew no boundaries.
My heart is broken.
Rest in Peace Guv and tell Jimi and Rory we were asking for them."

Sue Garrett, Export Manager for Marshall, also made a statement on behalf of the company:

"Words cannot express the sadness that I am feeling today with the loss of my boss, the guvnor ‘Jim Marshall’ who I have worked for now for almost 23 years. I have been fortunate enough to have travelled the globe with Jim during his tours, store appearances and music trade shows. Jim was a true legend with a heart of gold and a wicked sense of humour. He was a world renowned iconic figure beyond belief. Heaven will be rocking that little bit louder tonight. RIP Jim Marshall."

Below you will find a perfect example of the impact Jim Marshall had on rock and roll. Take it away Jimi...