Few guitarists can claim as much influence on the instrument’s evolution as Ritchie Blackmore. Like many of his generation, Blackmore’s love for guitar began with the blues and rock ‘n’ roll of the 1950s, only to be solidified by the pioneers of the 1960s, including Eric Clapton. These early influences ignited Blackmore’s passion, setting him on a path to shape his career around the six-string.
While London’s music scene of the 1960s celebrated guitar icons like Eric Clapton, Jimmy Page, and Jeff Beck, Blackmore was steadily building his reputation. Before joining Deep Purple, he played in various groups, including The Outlaws, and worked as a sideman for figures like Screaming Lord Sutch and Neil Christian. Blackmore also did session work under the innovative producer Joe Meek, further honing his craft.
The true showcase of Blackmore’s skill arrived with Deep Purple in 1967. The band’s early years were spent finding their sound, but by 1969, they had solidified their heavy metal influence, particularly with the release of Deep Purple In Rock in 1970. This record became a landmark in classic rock, with Blackmore’s gritty Stratocaster work defining its sound.
Tracks like “Smoke on the Water,” “Black Night,” and “Highway Star” showcased his innovative techniques—dive bombs, string tapping, and a fierce tone that made him a pivotal force in rock. Alongside contemporaries like Tony Iommi and Jimmy Page, Blackmore was proving that rock could push boundaries in ways unimagined by earlier bands like The Beatles or The Rolling Stones.
As the years passed, Blackmore continued to evolve, exploring genres from heavy metal to folk. Along this journey, he also watched the guitar world grow in ways unimaginable during his early years. One modern guitarist who has consistently impressed Blackmore is Eric Johnson, a Texan known for his fluid style and technical finesse, especially on his signature Stratocaster. Johnson gained fame with the 1990 instrumental track “Cliffs of Dover” and has since collaborated with artists like Cat Stevens, Carole King, and Joe Satriani.
Blackmore, typically reserved in his praise, has been outspoken about his admiration for Johnson. In 1996, when Johnson’s music was still fresh to him, Blackmore offered his highest compliment.
“He’s a fantastic, smooth player—excellent,” he remarked, adding, “I think he will outlast all the other guitar players around us at the moment. He has a natural flair to entertain and play. He is not just a very fast player. He plays with great taste, amazing.”
For Blackmore, who himself pushed boundaries, Johnson’s unique blend of technique and taste stood out. His belief that Johnson’s playing would endure beyond trends underscores the respect he has for musicians who prioritize skill and artistry. From Blackmore’s early days pioneering heavy metal with Deep Purple to his admiration for modern players, his legacy is one of honoring originality—a trait he finds in artists like Eric Johnson.
