ROCK guitarist Bernie Marsden, who most famously helped launch the career of Whitesnake, will celebrate the music of Rory Gallagher at The Nag’s Head in High Wycombe next week.

Bucks-born Bernie was a close personal friend of Irish blues and rock musician Rory, who died 13 years ago.

The former member of Taste would have been 60 this year, so Bernie, who was also briefly with such groups as Juicy Lucy and UFO, has put a touring show together as “a fitting celebration” of Rory’s life.

The Nag’s Head gig marks Bernie’s first stop on the European and US tour, as well as his first time at “the legendary venue”, which in the past has hosted such musical icons as The Who and The Sex Pistols.

Bernie, who during his time with Whitesnake helped pen such massive rock anthems as Here I Go Again and Fool For Your Loving, tells me: “Rory was a lovely guy and a great influence on me, both as a player and a human being.

“Sadly he passed away much too early, but this gig is all about celebrating him and his music.

“I don’t intend to impersonate him, but instead I will be playing his songs the way I play and the way I sing.

“So far we have shows booked all over Germany, France and the US. People seem really excited about the tour and so am I!”

Bernie Marsden Plays Rory Gallagher at The Nag’s Head, London Road, High Wycombe, on Saturday, December 20, 8.30pm. Tickets £12. Details: 01494 521544, 07738 622526 or www.berniemarsden.co.uk
Music promoter Ron Watts will also be at The Nag’s Head on Saturday, December 20, from 7pm, to sign copies of his book 100 Watts.