Guitarist Ritchie Blackmore plans to join Deep Purple on stage for an encore during their concert at the Northwell Health At Jones Beach Theater in Wantagh, New York, according to statements made by the musician and reporting from Spark Rock Magazine. The unexpected reunion brings together the hard rock guitarist and his former bandmates for the first time since November 1993, when Blackmore departed the group during an European tour.
Ritchie Blackmore and Deep Purple Reunion Details
Blackmore announced the upcoming guest appearance during an Instagram livestream alongside his wife and Blackmore’s Night bandmate, Candice Night, as reported by Spark Rock Magazine. According to Blackmore, he reached out directly to vocalist Ian Gillan, who resides in Portugal. The guitarist explained that he asked Gillan whether the band would welcome a guest spot for a single encore song, emphasizing that he did not want to disrupt the current lineup or apply pressure.
Gillan brought the proposal to the rest of the band, who granted approval, according to Blackmore’s statements on the broadcast. The performance marks an end to a three-decade rift characterized by sharp media exchanges following Blackmore’s abrupt departure in late 1993.
Logistics and Equipment for the New York Stage
The reunion takes place in Wantagh, New York, close to Blackmore’s residence on Long Island. According to Spark Rock Magazine, Blackmore’s road crew prepared a scaled-down setup at the venue, utilizing a smaller recording amplifier rather than the larger gear rig deployed by current Deep Purple guitarist Simon McBride.
The guest spot is limited to the very end of the show, where Blackmore plans to handle guitar duties for one or two tracks alongside the band, who are currently touring in support of their latest studio album, Splat!. The performance falls under the itinerary of the ongoing tour, which also includes international dates such as an upcoming October 7 show at the O2 Arena in Prague.
Frequently Asked Questions
When did Ritchie Blackmore last play with Deep Purple?
Ritchie Blackmore last performed live with Deep Purple in November 1993, leaving the group mid-tour before starting a three-decade absence from the lineup, as noted by Spark Rock Magazine.
Where is the reunion concert taking place?
The performance is scheduled for the Northwell Health At Jones Beach Theater in Wantagh, New York, during the band’s current tour.
Will Blackmore play the full concert set?
No. According to Blackmore’s statements, he will join the band strictly for the evening’s final encore, playing one or two songs.
Who is Deep Purple’s current lead guitarist?
Simon McBride handles lead guitar duties for Deep Purple on their current tour supporting the album Splat!.
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