Ritchie Blackmore's Guitarist Insights: A Candid Look at Musical Influences
Ritchie Blackmore, the renowned guitarist of Deep Purple, was featured on the cover of International Musician & Recording World magazine in March 1975. In a rare interview with American writer/producer/guitarist Jon Tiven, Blackmore shared his candid thoughts on various guitarists. Despite his reluctance towards interviews, Blackmore didn't hold back when discussing his peers.
When asked about his favorite guitarists, Blackmore expressed admiration for Jeff Beck, citing him as his top choice. He also mentioned other overlooked guitarists like Mike Bloomfield and Steve Howe. However, he admitted that he was not particularly impressed by Jimmy Page and Eric Clapton, praising Clapton more for his singing abilities. Blackmore marveled at Beck's natural talent and unique playing style, acknowledging his own admiration for Beck's skills.
Blackmore also praised the legendary Jimi Hendrix for his innovative approach to guitar playing. He highlighted Hendrix's ability to let his creativity guide his hands, leading to a distinctive and ever-evolving musical style. Additionally, Blackmore shared his thoughts on Pete Townshend of The Who, recognizing his pioneering use of distortion in guitar solos and his multifaceted talents as a musician and songwriter.
Interestingly, Blackmore mentioned American guitarist Tommy Bolin as someone he rated highly, despite the fact that Bolin would later replace him in Deep Purple. This unexpected nod to Bolin showcased Blackmore's appreciation for diverse and talented guitarists across different musical backgrounds.
In conclusion, Ritchie Blackmore's insightful comments on guitarists like Jeff Beck, Jimi Hendrix, Pete Townshend, and others offer a glimpse into his musical influences and preferences. His candid opinions and admiration for fellow musicians reflect his deep respect for the artistry and creativity of guitar playing in the rock music scene.