As a rock guitar slinger of well over 40 years....I’m positively ashamed to admit that I JUST found out about Jon Lord’s passing this evening. I was going to post a thread about it when I found this one.
Deep Purple in the early ‘70’s....Fireball, Machine Head (one of the best, hands down, bar none, no argument rock albums ever made), Made In Japan (here we go again....one of the best live rock albums ever made...along with The Who’s Live at Leeds, Steppenwolf Live, Procul Harem Live). These guys flat kicked ass and everyone knew it. They influenced ALL of us. Blackmore....ok, he’s a legendary asshole, but he had chops. Gillian....fabulous vocals. Hughes....my God, to have THAT voice as your BACKUP?????....while playing bass???
New incarnation(s)....Steve Morse on guitar? You kidding me? He’s a master. More balls in his tone and technique than Blackmore ever dreamed of.
Jon Lord, as was pointed out here by many, was really the glue that kept the band together on and off stage. He was an amazing musician. His replacement, Don Airey, is also phenomenal....but I love him for his work with my all time favorite, Gary Moore. That era was Airey’s....and Moore’s....best work, hands down.
We are all a bit poorer for the loss of Mr. Lord. I hope that he rests in THE Lord’s arms and was welcomed home. He brought so much joy to so many of us....for so many years.
Jon Lord, you’ll be missed.
Amen.