Deep Purple

Deep Purple is a hard rock band that hail from London, England. Over the course of a career that spanned over four decades, they went through numerous lineup changes and sold over 100 million albums worldwide. Their most famous song, "Smoke on the Water," is acknowledged by many critics as having one of the most recognizable guitar riffs of all time. Richie Blackmore, the band's original guitarist, became a major influence on many guitar players after him, particularly in the metal world.

After a breakup period from 1976-1984, Deep Purple started touring again. After Blackmore left in 1993, he was replaced by Steve Morse (formerly of the Dixie Dregs and Kansas) after a brief stint with Joe Satriani filling in on guitar.

Some of Deep Purple's other hits include "Highway Star," "Hush," and "Space Truckin'."

2010 Plans

Deep Purple has tour shows scheduled for 2010 and they are being firmed up. Steve Morse has referred to South Africa, Asia, Australia, and a massive European tour. There are seven tour dates that have been confirmed in April, 2010. http://www.lennardpromotions.com.au/tour_sub.php?id=122The Leonard Promotions website state that Deep Purple will be backed up by Electric Mary, a young Australian band.

These tour dates are Deep Purple's first dates in South Africa since 1995 and begins on Friday, May 28, 2010 in Johannesburg. The band is scheduled to join Wishbone Ash and Uriah Heep for the 'Masters of Rock' concert tour. Then off to Durban, May 30, 2010, and ending on June 1, 2010 in Cape Town. Deep Purple played during the World Cup in Germany during the last one and will miss it by ten days this time.

Deep Purple, in June 2010, will be visiting Ireland and then they are scheduled August 8, 9, and 10 2010 for the Swedish Rock Weekend Festival at Julyn near Kilafors. At the festival, Over the Rainbow will also be playing. Deep Purple will also be performing at 13 shows in Germany in November 2010, with Marillion getting a one hour backup slot.http://www.deep-purple.net/mk7news/mk8-news.htm