The much loved British singer died at Arrow Park Hospital on the Wirral on Sunday morning, his agent Robert Pratt confirmed to the media.
Radio Presenter, journalist and close friend of Marsden’s, Pete Price, took to Twitter to announce the news saying, “It’s with a very heavy heart after speaking to the family that I have to tell you the Legendary Gerry Marsden MBE after a short illness which was an infection in his heart has sadly passed away. Sending all the love in the world to Pauline and his family. You’ll Never Walk Alone.”
It’s with a very heavy heart after speaking to the family that I have to tell you the Legendary Gerry Marsden MBE after a short illness which was an infection in his heart has sadly passed away. Sending all the love in the world to Pauline and his family. You’ll Never Walk Alone pic.twitter.com/Ezd9WcdeQK
— Pete Price (@PeteCityPrice) January 3, 2021
Marsden, who was born in the Toxteth area of Liverpool in 1942, is probably best known for covering the Rogers and Hammerstein song You'll Never Walk Alone with his band - leading Liverpool football club to adopt it as their official motto and anthem.
He re-recorded the track in April last year in tribute to the NHS during the coronavirus pandemic. Marsden also penned the 60s hits Ferry Cross the Mersey and Don't Let The Sun Catch You Crying.
Beatles star Sir Paul McCartney said Gerry And The Pacemakers were his band's "biggest rivals on the local scene", adding: "You'll Never Walk Alone and Ferry Cross the Mersey remain in many people's hearts as reminders of a joyful time in British music."
Gerry was a mate from our early days in Liverpool. He and his group were our biggest rivals on the local scene. His unforgettable performances of You’ll Never Walk Alone and Ferry Cross the Mersey remain in many people’s hearts as reminders of a joyful time in British music... pic.twitter.com/t1COAIwZVM
— Paul McCartney (@PaulMcCartney) January 3, 2021
Marsden is survived by his wife of 55 years, Pauline, and his two daughters Yvette and Victoria.
May you RIP Gerry Marsden.
