Magnum founder Tony Clarkin dies age 77

We here at Distorted Sound are saddened to report the passing of MAGNUM founder Tony Clarkin.

As the founder and guitarist for UK hard rock veterans MAGNUM, Tony Clarkin led the band from the humble beginnings in 1972 before returning in 2001. As their principal song-writer, Clarkin kept the band moving forwards culminating in what will be his swansong, Here Comes The Rain, which will be released on Friday.

In a statement, Clarkin‘s daughter, Dionne Clarkin says, “I know that Tony has touched so many people through his music in so many different ways. I don‘t really have words to express what he meant to me right now as the grief is too fresh. As many of you know Tony had a great affinity with animals. It is the family‘s intention to set up a charitable trust in his name to aid this cause, further details to follow. Please do not send flowers or cards, as he would have much preferred expressions of sympathy to go to charity in this way. It was a privilege to call him my Dad. ‘I didn’t look to live forever’.”

Olly Hahn, head of Steamhammer says, “we at SPV/Steamhammer are devastated about the passing of Tony. We can’t believe that he’s gone. For 22 years the whole team and I had the pleasure to work with him, 22 years of fantastic music, trust and loyalty. We are forever grateful for this. Rest in peace, Tony!”

RIP Tony Clarkin.

All of us at Distorted Sound send our deepest condolences to Tony’s friends, family, bandmates and fans.