In a recent interview, Ian Gillan reflected on his complex relationship with Ritchie Blackmore and praised Simon McBride’s contributions to Deep Purple. Gillan acknowledged the challenge facing guitarists following Blackmore, emphasizing the importance of faithfully reproducing his iconic solos while allowing room for personal interpretation.
He quoted Steve Morse’s humorous remark about stepping into Blackmore’s shoes, noting McBride’s exceptional talent and creativity. Gillan described McBride as a “genius,” highlighting his energy, musical skills, and contributions to the band. Reflecting on his past with Blackmore, Gillan admitted some responsibility for their strained relationship, reminiscing about their earlier collaborations.
