Ritchie Blackmore, the legendary guitarist of Deep Purple, has never shied away from expressing his opinions, even when it comes to his peers in the music industry. In a rare interview with Jon Tiven in March 1975, Blackmore revealed his thoughts on several guitarists, including Jeff Beck, Jimi Hendrix, and Pete Townshend. However, it was his candid assessment of Jimmy Page and Eric Clapton that truly stood out.
Blackmore's disdain for Page and Clapton was evident, stating, "I'm not too struck on Jimmy Page and Eric Clapton, I never saw what was in Clapton at all." This statement, while perhaps surprising to some, showcases Blackmore's unique perspective and his willingness to speak his mind. He further elaborated on his thoughts, praising Beck's natural talent and describing him as a "very natural guitar player." Blackmore's admiration for Beck's playing style and his own technical prowess is a testament to his respect for his peers, even if he doesn't always agree with their methods.
The interview also shed light on Blackmore's appreciation for Hendrix's innovative approach to guitar playing. He emphasized the importance of the artist's head guiding their hands, a philosophy that set Hendrix apart from others. Blackmore's admiration for Hendrix's creativity and his ability to push the boundaries of music is a reflection of his own desire to be a trailblazer in his craft.
When it comes to Townshend, Blackmore had a more nuanced view. He acknowledged Townshend's role in The Establishment and his influence on the music scene, but also recognized his talent as a writer and all-around musician. This balanced perspective highlights Blackmore's ability to appreciate different aspects of an artist's work, even if he doesn't necessarily align with their personal beliefs or ideologies.
Ironically, Blackmore's interview included a mention of Tommy Bolin, an American guitarist who would later replace him in Deep Purple. This unexpected endorsement of an American musician further showcases Blackmore's open-mindedness and his willingness to give credit where it's due, regardless of nationality.
In conclusion, Ritchie Blackmore's interview with Jon Tiven provides a fascinating insight into his thoughts on various guitarists. His honest and straightforward opinions, especially regarding Jimmy Page and Eric Clapton, demonstrate his unique perspective and his commitment to staying true to his artistic vision. Blackmore's appreciation for Beck, Hendrix, and Bolin, as well as his nuanced view of Townshend, showcases his respect for his peers and his ability to see beyond surface-level differences.
