Legendary guitarist Ritchie Blackmore, best known for his signature riffs with Deep Purple and Rainbow, is navigating a challenging health journey—but hope is on the horizon, as his wife and collaborator, Candice Night, hints at special performances later this year.
According to recent conversations aired on the Iron City Rocks podcast, Night shared that Blackmore, now 80 years old, is contending with a trio of health concerns. He suffered a heart attack in 2023, has been managing gout that impacts his feet and forefinger mobility, and continues to deal with longstanding back issues .
These conditions have understandably restricted his ability to fly. Candice explained that air travel poses undue stress on his heart, and the rigors of airports and jet lag exacerbate his discomfort—especially at his stage in life.
Still, there’s encouraging news: despite his health limitations, Blackmore is considering live performances—only in places he can reach by road. As Candice shared, “He did just say … ‘What about doing some Blackmore’s Night dates in the fall?’” .
Their approach would be intentionally mellow: short road trips, relaxed schedules, and venues close enough to ensure Blackmore can rest properly between shows. As Night describes it, “It’s like a mini road trip … rest that night… a very slowed-down way of doing it. But honestly, I’d much rather take something than nothing at all.”
This proposal follows a series of earlier shows in April and May of 2025, all within driving distance of their Long Island home. These intimate, localized performances underscore a thoughtful return to the stage—prioritizing health and comfort while giving fans a chance to once again experience his artistry .
Why This Matters
Aging Rock Legend Still Passionate
Though Blackmore’s physical challenges are evident, his interest in performing reveals that his creative spark remains undimmed. Fans can take heart knowing he’s selectively exploring ways to reconnect through music.
Grounded Touring Model Might Set a New Standard
By opting for carefully planned, close-by shows, Blackmore and Night highlight a model of scaled-back touring that balances demand with dignity—respecting both the music and the artist’s well-being.
A Personal Invitation for Fans
For followers of Blackmore’s Night and devotees of rock’s golden era, these tentative fall dates offer a rare chance to witness legends in a setting built around real human considerations.
What to Expect Next
Candice Night noted that she’s getting in touch with their agent to explore options for the fall. While nothing is confirmed yet, fans should keep an eye on official channels in the coming weeks for possible announcements .
In the meantime, Ritchie continues to share glimpses of his legacy through platforms like his YouTube series Tales from the Tavern—recounting stories from his storied career even as he navigates these slower-paced stages of life.
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