Breaking: Ritchie Blackmore Rejoins Deep Purple for Shocking 2026 Reunion Tour, Disbands Rainbow Legendary guitarist Ritchie Blackmore stuns fans, officially leaving Rainbow to reunite with Deep Purple for an electrifying 2026 world tour—marking a historic return that promises to thrill rock enthusiasts across…
In an astonishing development that has sent shockwaves through the rock community, legendary guitarist Ritchie Blackmore has officially departed from Rainbow to reunite with Deep Purple for a highly anticipated world tour in 2026. This historic reunion marks a significant milestone in rock history, uniting one of the genre’s most iconic lineups and reigniting the flames of classic rock greatness.
For decades, Ritchie Blackmore has been revered as one of the most influential guitarists in rock history. His pioneering work with Deep Purple in the late 1960s and early 1970s helped define the sound of hard rock and heavy metal, with timeless tracks like “Smoke on the Water,” “Highway Star,” and “Burn.” After leaving Deep Purple in 1975, Blackmore’s career took him through various musical projects, most notably Rainbow, which he founded in 1975. Rainbow’s blend of hard rock, neoclassical metal, and mystical themes made it a staple of the 1980s rock landscape, with hits like “Since You Been Gone” and “Man on the Silver Mountain.”
Fans have long speculated about a potential reunion between Blackmore and his former bandmates, but recent developments have confirmed that the legendary guitarist will be returning to the Deep Purple fold. The news was confirmed earlier today through a joint statement from Blackmore and Deep Purple’s management, revealing plans for an extensive 2026 world tour that will see the band performing across Europe, North America, Asia, and beyond.
“This is a dream come true,” Blackmore said in a press release. “Deep Purple was my musical home, and I’ve missed playing those iconic songs live. Reuniting with the band feels like coming full circle, and I can’t wait to hit the stage with them once again.”
Deep Purple’s current lineup expressed excitement and enthusiasm about the reunion. Lead vocalist Ian Gillan, bassist Roger Glover, and drummer Ian Paice all welcomed Blackmore back, emphasizing how the chemistry and power of their combined talents will create a legendary concert experience for fans worldwide.
The tour, dubbed “The Eternal Flame Tour 2026,” is expected to feature classic Deep Purple staples alongside Blackmore’s signature guitar solos, with special performances of Rainbow hits to honor the band’s storied legacy. Fans can anticipate a setlist that spans decades of iconic rock anthems, delivering a musical journey through the evolution of hard rock and heavy metal.
Industry insiders and critics are already heralding this reunion as one of the most significant events in rock history. Blackmore’s return to Deep Purple not only reunites two of the genre’s most influential figures but also promises a once-in-a-lifetime live experience that will attract fans from around the globe. Tickets are projected to sell out rapidly, with many shows expected to be recorded and released as part of a live album or concert film.
This unexpected development also marks the end of Blackmore’s tenure with Rainbow, a band he founded and led for over four decades. While Rainbow will continue to have a legacy as one of the most beloved rock bands of its era, Blackmore’s focus now shifts back to the legendary band that launched his career.
The 2026 tour will undoubtedly be a celebration of musical history, showcasing the enduring power and influence of Deep Purple and Ritchie Blackmore. As fans worldwide prepare for what promises to be a series of electrifying performances, one thing is clear: rock’s storied past continues to inspire and thrill new generations of music lovers.
Stay tuned for more updates on tour dates, ticket sales, and exclusive behind-the-scenes content as this historic reunion unfolds. Deep Purple and Ritchie Blackmore are back—ready to ignite the stage and leave an indelible mark on rock history once again.