Ritchie Blackmore returns to the stage with Deep Purple
loudersound.com • • entertainment
Key Points:
- Ritchie Blackmore, co-founder of Deep Purple, made a surprise return to the stage with the band at the Northwell at Jones Beach Theater in Wantagh, New York, performing "Smoke On The Water" after nearly 30 years of absence.
- Blackmore had not played with Deep Purple since his acrimonious departure in 1993, and his relationship with frontman Ian Gillan remained strained until Blackmore reached out to Gillan earlier this week to request a brief encore appearance.
- Ian Gillan welcomed Blackmore back warmly onstage, sharing the story of their renewed communication and praising Blackmore as a legendary founding member.
- Blackmore's partner, Candice Night, expressed her happiness about the reunion with a backstage photo of the band members together.
- Deep Purple continues their Splat! Tour with upcoming dates across North America and Europe from August through November 2026.
