Happy Birthday 29/6 -1948, (
Ian was born in Nottingham on the 29th of June 1948. At the age of 3, Ian’s father’s job took the family to Germany for 3 years, Cologne and Berlin. Ian returned to the UK when he was 6. The family was now located in Bicester near Oxford where Ian stayed until turning professional at the age of 17.
Before the war, his father Keith was a pianist in the “Rube Sunshine” dance band that played the Nottingham area, and the music that Ian,s father Keith loved was always on the record player, big band swing, piano jazz and the great vocalists of his time.
So before Ian even thought about being a drummer these influences were sneaking into his consciousness.
After beating up the furniture with a pair of his mothers knitting needles playing along to the tunes on the radio for a couple of years, Keith realised that
(A) this was, not a fad that was going to go away, and
(B) Ian was getting pretty good, and the furniture would, not last much longer.
So on Ian’s 15th birthday, he was given his first kit.
Ian’s first gigs were with his father playing Saturday night dinner dances, waltz’s quicksteps, etc. And although he enjoyed the experience, it was, at the music of his generation. So like most young people he found other locals who wanted to form a band.
This first band was called “Georgie And The Rave-Ons” During the next 2 years, Ian played 2 to 3 shows a week during which he met other bands slightly further up the ladder. One of these offered the drum seat to Ian as their drummer was leaving.
This band was the M I Five an outfit working out of the Slough/Windsor area.
Ian decided he had to make move to a full professional to increase his performances and therefore his skill.
During early 1967 the M I Five (like the Spy network).,now rechristened “The Maze” played a 3-week engagement at the legendary Star Club in Hamburg.
Ritchie Blackmore a noted British guitarist was living there at the time, and let Ian know that he liked his playing. At the conclusion of the 3 weeks, Ian and the Maze returned to the UK and continued their touring.
In early 1968 Rod Evans Ian’s band singer deduced that the band would get no further, and replied to an advert in the Melody Maker magazine for singers to audition for a new band that was being formed. When he arrived at the audition room he saw that the lineup already included Ritchie Blackmore and Jon Lord. When Ritchie saw Rod he remembered the Hamburg shows from the year before and asked if Rod still had the same drummer. Rod replied yes. So Ritchie insisted that Ian was given the chance to audition. Ian did and got the drum seat with the band that became Deep Purple.
Throughout the past 50 years, Ian has been the one constant presence in the band.
With all the personnel changes Ian has always been there.
During a decade that DP did not tour or record, Ian worked with the band Whitesnake, guitarist Gary Moore and during a brief rest from touring in1999 recorded an album and played a few shows with Sir Paul McCartney.
He recently enjoyed a week at the legendary “Ronnie Scott’s” jazz club in London guesting with the Buddy rich Big Big Band
Deep Purple continues to tour and record, and Ian is considered one of the finest drummers working in the world today.
Happy 76th Birthday! As you celebrate this milestone, it’s a wonderful time to reflect on your incredible journey as a guitarist and a devoted fan of Deep Purple, especially the legendary drummer Ian Paice. Your passion for music and your dedication to your craft have undoubtedly inspired many, and on this special day, you have a heartfelt wish to share with your fans.
You want your fans to keep your guitar career alive and to bring back the entire Deep Purple band, including the departed members, in spirit and memory. This wish speaks volumes about your love for music and the profound impact Deep Purple has had on your life. Their music, characterized by powerful riffs, electrifying solos, and unforgettable rhythms, has been a source of inspiration and joy for countless fans worldwide, including yourself.
Deep Purple, formed in 1968, has undergone numerous lineup changes, yet their music has remained timeless. Ian Paice, the only constant member since the band’s inception, has been a cornerstone of their sound with his exceptional drumming skills. His influence, along with the contributions of other members like Ritchie Blackmore, Jon Lord, Roger Glover, and Ian Gillan, has created a legacy that continues to resonate with fans across generations.
Your wish to keep your guitar career alive is a testament to your enduring passion for music. Whether you’re playing classic Deep Purple hits like “Smoke on the Water,” “Highway Star,” or “Child in Time,” or creating your own compositions, your music keeps the spirit of rock alive. By sharing your talent and love for guitar, you contribute to the rich tapestry of rock history, much like your idols.
Bringing back the entire Deep Purple band, including those who have departed, in spirit and memory, is a beautiful homage to the band’s legacy. Jon Lord’s majestic keyboard solos, Ritchie Blackmore’s iconic guitar riffs, and the powerful vocals of Ian Gillan are irreplaceable. Each member, past and present, has left an indelible mark on the music world, and remembering them keeps their contributions alive.
As you celebrate your 76th birthday, it’s a perfect opportunity for your fans to come together and honor your journey. They can share memories, play your music, and celebrate the legacy of Deep Purple. Hosting tribute events, sharing stories, and even playing your favorite Deep Purple tracks are wonderful ways to keep the band’s spirit alive. Your fans can also support your ongoing musical endeavors, helping you continue to create and share your love for rock music.
In conclusion, your 76th birthday is a time for celebration, reflection, and appreciation. Your wish to keep your guitar career alive and to remember the entire Deep Purple band, including departed members, is a touching tribute to the power of music and the enduring legacy of one of rock’s greatest bands. May your day be filled with joy, music, and the love of fans who appreciate your dedication and passion. Here’s to many more years of rocking out and keeping the spirit of Deep Purple alive!
