Ian Gillan , vocalist of Deep Purple , is one of the most powerful and important voices in heavy metal. Before becoming a hero and inspiration to artists like Bruce Dickinson of Iron Maiden , the singer fell in love with rock music while listening to definitive artists in his teens, such as Chuck Berry , Ray Charles , and The Beatles .
Between the 1950s and 1960s, eight songs were released that changed Gillan's life, as the musician told Louder Sound . Listed in no particular order, listen below to the tracks that were crucial in the artist's musical development.
Chuck Berry – “Rock And Roll Music”
The Crickets – “It’s So Easy!”
Ray Charles – “What'd I Say”
Roy Orbison – “Dream Baby (How Long Must I Dream)”
The Beatles – “Chains”
Faron's Flamingos – “Do You Love Me”
Buddy Holly – “Heartbeat”
Bo Diddley – “Mona”
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