Legendary Deep Purple guitarist Ritchie Blackmore is reportedly facing several health challenges, according to an update shared by his wife and longtime musical collaborator, Candice Night.
In a recent interview with Eonmusic, Night opened up about Blackmore’s condition, noting that he will soon turn 80 on April 14, a fact she finds incredible. “Believe it or not, this man, it’s April, and his birthday is coming, so he’s going to be 80 on April 14th, which is mind boggling, because he doesn’t look and he certainly doesn’t act it still,” she said.
Night revealed that Blackmore suffered a heart attack about a year and a half ago and now has six stents in his heart. She also detailed additional health concerns, saying, “We’re battling arthritis and some gout issues, and he’s still got his back problem that he’s had, so travel is difficult for him because of all that sitting.”
These conditions have made performing increasingly difficult for the iconic guitarist. “Standing on stage, even standing with the guitars is tricky,” she explained, also adding that doctors have advised him against flying, which significantly limits touring options beyond the United States.
Despite the challenges, the couple’s folk-rock project, Blackmore’s Night, has continued to perform. They recently completed shows in Rhode Island and New Jersey, with more appearances scheduled in Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and New York State. Night said they’re still able to play shows that they can drive to, keeping performances close to home.
She emphasized a hopeful outlook amid the difficulties. “I’m putting positive energy out there in the universe and hope that maybe we can get him back on there,” she concluded.
This isn’t the first time Blackmore has addressed the physical toll of his career. In a 2016 interview, he spoke candidly about aging and the pressures of performing. “Optically, I’m deteriorating very fast, as we all are,” he remarked. “All my friends are passing away. Some of my enemies are passing away, too. But we try and keep up with it.”
At the time, he also criticized Deep Purple’s demanding tour schedule, suggesting that the band was “milking it a bit too much.”
As fans send their well-wishes, the news sheds light on the realities of aging rock legends and their resilience in the face of health struggles.
Related Topics
- Brian May Reveals the Queen Song That Pushed His Limits
- Indonesian Metal Guitarist Ricky Siahaan Dies Backstage at Tokyo Concert Finale
- Inside the Studio With David Lee Roth: Guitar Legends Reveal the High Standards of a Rock Icon
