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Discover how Ritchie Blackmore and Deep Purple shaped the evolution of rock guitar in the 1970s, influenced by legends like Clapton, Beck, and Page.
Ritchie Blackmore, the iconic Deep Purple guitarist, is often celebrated as one of rock’s most influential figures. Emerging from the vibrant ‘swinging sixties’ London scene, Blackmore witnessed firsthand the innovations that would shape the musical landscape of his era. Though known for his significant contributions to rock’s evolution, Blackmore’s rise coincided with the emergence of a legendary trio of guitarists—Eric Clapton, Jeff Beck, and Jimmy Page—whose pioneering work somewhat overshadowed his early career.
The Impact of Clapton, Beck, and Page on Ritchie Blackmore
While Blackmore achieved revered status in his pre-Deep Purple days, it was Clapton, Beck, and Page who led the charge in transforming rock guitar playing, making it more atmospheric and powerful. Their groundbreaking work in the Yardbirds, particularly during Beck and Page’s tenure, played a crucial role in paving the way for harder sonic inclinations, allowing Blackmore and others to expand their scope and achieve immense success. As the 1960s transitioned into the 1970s, the counterculture’s positivity gave way to a darker, more nihilistic outlook, setting the stage for the birth of heavy metal—a genre Blackmore would help pioneer.
The Birth of Metal: 1970 and Beyond
The year 1970 marked a pivotal moment in music history, solidifying the transition from 1960s rock to the heavier sounds of metal. Deep Purple’s release of Deep Purple in Rock, featuring the standout track “Black Night” by Ritchie Blackmore, was a landmark in this shift. Meanwhile, Black Sabbath’s debut albums and Led Zeppelin’s Led Zeppelin III further defined the era. Blackmore has often credited The Yardbirds for laying the groundwork that allowed bands like Deep Purple to thrive in this new musical landscape.
Blackmore’s Unexpected Influences
In a revealing interview on Deep Purple’s official YouTube channel, Blackmore highlighted some surprising influences from the era, including Mountain and Vanilla Fudge. Though less mainstream, these bands played a significant role in shaping the music of the time. Mountain, known for “Mississippi Queen” and “Long Red,” bridged the gap between 1960s rock and 1970s metal. Vanilla Fudge, with their assertive cover of The Supremes’ “You Keep Me Hangin’ On,” had a defining impact on Led Zeppelin and the broader rock scene.
Deep Purple’s Heavy Legacy
Deep Purple, under Blackmore’s guidance, sought to build on the legacy of Jimi Hendrix, whose riff stylings inspired their bombastic approach to rock music. Tracks like “Speed King” from In Rock exemplify their effort to continue Hendrix’s legacy while adding their own heavier spin.
