The Detroit music community is mourning the loss of Steve Marshall, a legendary sound engineer and beloved figure whose influence shaped countless stages, bands, and careers over more than four decades. News of his passing has left friends, musicians, and colleagues heartbroken, as they remember a man whose talent, dedication, and unmistakable presence made him one of Detroit’s irreplaceable greats.
For over 40 years, Steve was a fixture in the local music scene — from The Ritz to the WRIF Harleyfests, from clubs and festivals to some of the city’s most iconic live shows. If you played in a Detroit band, odds were high that Steve Marshall was behind the board at some point in your career. His mastery as a FOH engineer, his precision with gear, and his pride in delivering flawless sound earned him widespread respect.
Tributes pouring in reflect decades of memories: the big yellow truck that sat in front of The Ritz for years, the endless gear rentals, the late-night setups, the Harleyfest stages, the summer shows, and the shared moments that defined an era of Detroit rock. Steve wasn’t just a soundman — he was a partner, a mentor, and a friend who took the ride from “cradle to grave.”
His passing leaves a tremendous void in the community. Friends say the heavens will sound better today, with Steve behind the board once again. Loved ones take comfort in knowing he is reunited with fellow legends — Mike Q, Cool Chris Panackia, and others who shaped Detroit’s musical soul.
Steve Marshall was a giant — a true Detroit original. His legacy will live on in every note played, every band he believed in, and every stage he made come alive. He will be deeply, deeply missed.
May he rest in peace.
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