Bad Reputation

The Zoo Crew is spinning the bluesy riffs of "Bad Reputation" by Bernie Marsden, a track from his posthumous album Working Man, which features the single "Bad Reputation." This song, released as a digital single on November 24, 2023, showcases Marsden’s signature guitar licks and a classic rock vibe that echoes his early days with Whitesnake. According to MNPR Magazine, the single includes a surprising re-arrangement of the Whitesnake classic "Til The Day I Die" and a beautiful instrumental piece called "Foolish Day," both part of a limited-edition bonus disc. The track’s lyric video, premiered by Blabbermouth.net, highlights Marsden’s enduring creativity, with searing guitar work that proves he was at the peak of his powers until his passing in August 2023. Fran Marsden, his wife of over 40 years, shared in a MetalTalk interview that Bernie was thrilled about the album, eager for fans to hear his new original songs after his previous cover-focused releases.

In a nod to his legacy, the music community honored Marsden after his death, with Planet Rockstock renaming its main stage The Bernie Marsden Stage and Steelhouse Festival dubbing its opening night #Berniefest. The song "Bad Reputation" itself carries a driving rhythm and bar-room keyboard vibe, as noted by Ultimate Metal Forum, capturing the early Whitesnake feel that Zoo Freaks are sure to love. Marsden’s passion for the blues shines through, a theme consistent across his career, as he mentioned in a 2023 Strange Brew interview: “Everything I’ve done really has always been based on blues stuff from when I was a kid. Once that’s in you, it’s like permanent.”

Bernie Marsden’s journey began in Buckingham, England, where he was born on May 7, 1951. His love for music sparked as a teenager watching The Beatles, leading him to beg his parents for a guitar. As detailed in a MetalTalk feature, he started with an old acoustic, practicing until his fingers bled, eventually earning an electric guitar after mastering TV tunes. By 14, he joined his first band, The Jokers, quickly building a reputation as a skilled guitarist. At 17, he formed Skinny Cat, hitting the road and honing his craft, inspired by a young Gary Moore’s performance. His professional break came in 1972 with UFO, followed by stints with Wild Turkey, Cozy Powell’s Hammer, and Babe Ruth, as noted on Wikipedia. His big leap came in 1978 when he co-founded Whitesnake with David Coverdale and Micky Moody, co-writing hits like "Here I Go Again" and "Fool for Your Loving," cementing his place in rock history.

Fans can connect with Bernie Marsden’s legacy through his official website, which features news, media, and his online shop. His Facebook page shares updates and tributes, while his Instagram offers glimpses into his guitar collection and performances. On X, posts like one from November 16, 2021, reflect his pride in Whitesnake’s "Here I Go Again" reaching over 100 million streams. For Zoo Freaks wanting more, the Bernie Marsden Fan Club on Facebook is a vibrant community sharing memories and music. Another fan-driven space, Bernie Marsden Tribute, celebrates his contributions, perfect for fans spinning "Bad Reputation" at THE ZOO.