Lead singer defends the lineup
Deep Purple vocalist Ian Gillan posted an official statement this weekend regarding the issue of Deep Purple's reunion at the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. Last week, Ritchie Blackmore claimed that he was asked by Deep Purple's manager not to appear at the Hall of Fame.
Check out the full statement:
"Dear friends, family, and fans,
With respect to all:
We were faced with a very difficult decision when we learned of the Hall of Fame nomination. It was shocking to us that Steve Morse and Don Airey – who have been with us for 22 and 14 years respectively – were excluded, according to Hall of Fame 'rules'.
Fair enough, but these aren't our rules and they don't apply to a band like Deep Purple, which has been around for almost 50 years. Consequently, we – Ian G., Ian P. and Roger G. – decided in an agreement with the Hall of Fame that allows us to appear that night.
The Deep Purple nominees will accept the award, and the current, live Deep Purple lineup will perform. Inevitably, this means excluding Ritchie, David, and Glen from the live performance, but given the circumstances, there is no other acceptable option.
We need to make it clear that there is no intention or desire to upset anyone with this decision. It's purely out of respect for Steve and Don. In fact, we would love to play Smoke On The Water with Ritchie, David, Glen, and others.
I spoke with David Coverdale last week and he expressed complete understanding of how we're handling things. Thank you, David, you're a gentleman.
Outside of this event, there are no circumstances under which a reunion could happen, so it would be inconceivable that our guitarist and keyboardist would be left out after so many years (on the road and six albums) of commitment and contribution to the band, just to satisfy pressure that, in the past, was easily overcome.
So let's show up, shake hands, smile for the cameras, and get this over with dignity and respect for all current and former members of a very special family.”