Ritchie Blackmore to reunite with Deep Purple on stage for first time in 33 years: “For old time’s sake”

Ritchie Blackmore to reunite with Deep Purple on stage for first time in 33 years: “For old time’s sake”Ritchie Blackmore has confirmed that he will be joining Deep Purple on stage for the first time in 33 years. The guitarist will make the appearance during Deep Purple’s headlining show at the Jones Beach Theater in Wantagh, New York, tonight (August 12th). The 81-year-old is gearing up for a cameo on the night and is planning to join the group for an encore. And I said, ‘No pressure – just kind of [for] old times’ sake.’ Blackmore gushed, “I have not played rock music in 25 years… it’ll be good to see the old guys again.”