---
title: "Ritchie Blackmore Reunites with Deep Purple for Stage Performance"
url: https://projectchintan.com/article/ritchie-blackmore-reunites-deep-purple-stage-performance-b8n40
publisher: Project Chintan
author: Project Chintan Newsroom
section: Entertainment
published: 2026-08-13T08:45:13.956Z
modified: 2026-08-13T11:00:07.577Z
language: en-IN
---

# Ritchie Blackmore Reunites with Deep Purple for Stage Performance

Guitarist Ritchie Blackmore, an original member of Deep Purple, performed with the band for the first time since 1993. The 81-year-old musician joined the group for an encore at their concert in Wantagh, New York.

## Key takeaways

- Ritchie Blackmore, co-founder of Deep Purple, performed with the band on November 12, 2026.
- This marks Blackmore's first performance with Deep Purple since his departure in November 1993.
- The guitarist, aged 81, joined for an encore performance of "Smoke On The Water" in Wantagh, New York.
- Blackmore reached out to frontman Ian Gillan to propose the guest appearance, which was approved by the band.
- The performance occurred at the Northwell at Jones Beach Theater.

Ritchie Blackmore, an 81-year-old guitarist and co-founder of Deep Purple, returned to the stage with the band for the first time in nearly three decades. He performed with them on November 12, 2026, at the 15,000-capacity Northwell at Jones Beach Theater in Wantagh, New York.

Blackmore had previously departed the band in November 1993, with his exit being described as acrimonious. His relationship with frontman Ian Gillan was noted as having remained strained.

Earlier in the week, Blackmore initiated contact with Gillan, who resides in Portugal, to propose a guest appearance for a single song during an encore. Blackmore characterized the request as being made "for old times' sake" and without pressure. Gillan reportedly agreed to the idea, subsequently presenting it to the band, who also gave their approval.

The reunion performance featured Blackmore joining Deep Purple at the conclusion of their 100-minute set to play "Smoke On The Water." Following the song, Gillan acknowledged Blackmore as a founding member and "legend" before introducing him. Blackmore's partner, Candice Night, shared a backstage photo of the musicians, expressing that the event was heartwarming.

Deep Purple is currently on their "Splat!" tour. The band's schedule includes a European leg beginning in late September.

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Canonical: https://projectchintan.com/article/ritchie-blackmore-reunites-deep-purple-stage-performance-b8n40
Reported from: Multiple Sources