An open letter from Ian Gillan to Deep Purple, our fans, and the entire Deep Purple community.
Dear Deep Purple family,
As I sit down to write this, I am flooded with gratitude, nostalgia, and deep appreciation for the adventure we have had together. It’s been an incredible voyage, filled with soaring highs, creative discovery, and, most importantly, a steadfast friendship that has weathered the test of time. Today, I’d want to convey my heartfelt gratitude to every one of you—my bandmates, our passionate fans, and the entire Deep Purple community—for your unfailing support, love, and belief in me throughout my career.
To my Deep Purple brothers, past and present, you have been more than bandmates; you have been my family. I knew we were going to make something extraordinary the moment I stepped into the studio with you. We stretched musical limits, redefined ourselves, and created timeless songs. We did it everything together, from the raw fire of Deep Purple in Rock to the majesty of Machine Head and the progression of our music throughout the decades that followed. The companionship, the fun, the struggles, and the triumphs—we’ve experienced it all, and I wouldn’t change a thing. Thank you for joining me on this fantastic journey.
Deep Purple relies on its supporters to keep it going. Your enthusiasm, singing along at every show, and unwavering dedication have been the driving force behind our music. You’ve been there from the beginning, with crowded clubs to sold-out venues all around the world, boosting us up with your energy and passion. Your belief in our music has been nothing short of inspirational, and I am eternally thankful.
Thank you to the entire Deep Purple community, including engineers, producers, management, road crews, and everyone else who helped deliver our music to the world. You have accomplished the impossible, and your efforts have never gone unrecognised.
As I reflect on this wonderful journey, I am reminded that Deep Purple is more than simply a band; it is a legacy, a spirit, and a force that will endure indefinitely. No matter where the road leads us next, one thing is certain: the music and memories we’ve made together will endure.
With love and thanks.
Ian Gillan