Former Deep Purple singer Joe Lynn Tuner has issued a response to comments by guitarist Ritchie Blackmore following the band’s induction into the 2016 Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame at an April 8 ceremony in New York.
"Obviously, as you know from the post here,” wrote Blackmore on Facebook, “I have my reason for not attending the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Induction ceremony, although I appreciate the award. However, I do think that they should've given an award to Joe Lynn Turner for when he was in Deep Purple for his singing and writing on ‘Slaves And Masters’ – a great record, one of my favorites."
Deep Purple were honored at the event alongside fellow inductees Cheap Trick, Steve Miller, Chicago and N.W.A.
The Rock Hall chose to induct most of Deep Purple’s first three lineups, including Blackmore, Ian Gillan, Roger Glover, Jon Lord, Ian Paice, Rod Evans, David Coverdale and Glenn Hughes.
“Congrats to Deep Purple for their long overdue induction,” wrote Turner on Facebook. “And I am proud and blessed to be a part of the DP legacy. However, Blackmore's absence at the ceremony was truly noticed. His credo always was and is to know your own truth and walk your own path... follow no one. A true 'outlaw' til the end.
“So I am humbled and touched by the recent Blackmore post concerning my work with the band. His respectful and supportive comments of my efforts on the ‘Slaves and Masters’ album were better than any 'award' I could receive, especially from an organization that has 'lost the point' many years ago.
“I agree that ‘Slaves and Masters’ is a great album as our collaborations have always been a mix of magical chemistry and artful integrity that will stand the test of time. My heartfelt thanks and sincere respect to a true original."
Former Rainbow singer Turner stepped in as frontman for Deep Purple and the 1990 album after longtime vocalist Ian Gillan was fired from the band in 1989; he remained in the lineup until August of 1992, when Gillan returned to the group in time for their 25th anniversary tour in 1993.
Blackmore will make a rare return to the rock stage with a newly-revamped Rainbow for three concerts in June.
See also:
Ritchie Blackmore comments on Deep Purple Rock Hall induction
VIDEO: Deep Purple inducted into 2016 Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame
Ritchie Blackmore sued by record label over Blackmore’s Night project
Ritchie Blackmore releases new photo of 2016 Rainbow lineup
Search Deep Purple at hennemusic
Search Rainbow at hennemusic
