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“Ritchie Blackmore, Guitar Pioneer and Founding Force Behind Deep Purple, Dies Suddenly at 80”
June 16, 2025 | Sussex, England — In a devastating blow to the world of rock music, legendary guitarist Ritchie Blackmore has died suddenly at the age of 80. The shocking news was confirmed by his family earlier today, leaving fans and fellow musicians reeling.
According to an official statement from his publicist, Blackmore passed away at his home in Sussex late last night after suffering a sudden medical emergency. Despite immediate efforts by emergency responders, he was pronounced dead at the scene.
> “Ritchie Blackmore was a genius, an innovator, and a fiercely independent spirit,” the statement read. “He passed away peacefully in his home, surrounded by those closest to him. His legacy will echo through every amplifier, every stage, and every soul he inspired.”
Blackmore’s towering influence on rock and metal began in the late 1960s when he co-founded Deep Purple. His explosive riffs and classically tinged solos helped shape the band’s iconic sound, most notably on tracks like “Smoke on the Water” and “Burn.” He later went on to form Rainbow, unleashing a powerful, melodic brand of hard rock that further cemented his reputation as one of the most influential guitarists of all time.
In his later years, Blackmore shifted away from hard rock and embraced Renaissance and folk music with his band Blackmore’s Night, founded with his wife Candice Night. The couple released several albums and toured the world, enchanting fans with their mystical blend of medieval and acoustic music.
Tributes have flooded in from across the globe, with artists such as Tony Iommi, David Coverdale, and Brian May praising Blackmore’s unparalleled legacy and unmatched talent.
Plans for a memorial service will be announced in
the coming days.
