Music Icon Dave Marsh Dies: Champion of Justice

Dave Marsh, a prominent music journalist and social justice advocate, died on August 14, 2026. Born in Michigan in 1950, Marsh was deeply influenced by the Detroit music scene, fostering a lifelong belief in music's power. He was an early editor at Creem magazine and a prolific writer for Rolling Stone, authoring more than twenty-four books, including the 1979 bestseller "Born to Run: The Bruce Springsteen Story."

Marsh's career also included a Grammy win for his liner notes on Aretha Franklin's "Queen of Soul" and a 19-year tenure hosting "Kick Out the Jams" on SiriusXM. Following the death of his daughter, Kristen Ann Carr, from sarcoma in 1993, Marsh co-founded The Kristen Ann Carr Fund to support cancer research and affected families. His work consistently blended music commentary with advocacy for human rights, freedom of expression, and social justice.

Throughout his five-decade career, Marsh championed causes such as universal healthcare, voting rights, and economic justice. Colleagues and artists like Tom Morello and Bruce Springsteen lauded his dedication to justice, human rights, and rock 'n' roll. Marsh mentored many young writers and left a significant legacy in both music journalism and activism.