Deep Purple Guitarist Steve Morse To Step Away From Live Duties
Thursday, 31 March 2022
Written by Jon Stickler
Photo: Ben Wolf
Deep Purple's Steve Morse (pictured, left) has announced he will temporarily step away from live duties.
The band returned to the stage in February, playing three shows in Florida, but the guitarist will now take a break from touring to care for his wife, who is ill. The legendary rock outfit confirmed the news with a post online:
"Today, Deep Purple announce that, due to a family matter, Steve Morse will be taking a temporary hiatus from Deep Purple live shows but remains a full member of the band. Steve’s replacement for the upcoming live shows in May, June and July 2022 will be guitarist Simon McBride, who has previously toured with both Ian Gillan and Don Airey amongst others."
Morse has also released a statement explaining his decision to temporarily step down:
"Hello, everybody. I've just done a few gigs with the band, after years (!?) of not playing live. It's a bittersweet, wonderful time to get together.
"However, my dear wife Janine is currently battling cancer. At this point, there are so many possible complications and unknowns, that whatever time we have left in our lives, I simply must be there with her.
"I am not leaving the band – I hope that after she gets a clean bill of health, I can re-join the tour. However, I am not seeing any likely situation which would allow me to do overseas touring in the immediate future. I continue to be privileged to be a part of the Purple family tree, and also to get to feel the amazing support of so many loyal fans and the rest of the band.
"There's a certified world class guitarist ready to take over for the live shows whom everybody will surely be happy to hear.
"I appreciate all your sincere prayers for Janine and thank you all."
Standing in for Morse will be Irish guitarist Simon McBride, who will appear with the band at all forthcoming dates, including their European festival appearances this summer, and UK and European dates in the autumn. Tickets are on sale now.
The group's latest album is the 2021 covers record 'Turning To Crime'.
Deep Purple Upcoming Tour Dates are as follows
Thu October 20 2022 - LONDON O2 Arena
Sat October 22 2022 - GLASGOW OVO Hydro
Sun October 23 2022 - LEEDS first direct Arena
Tue October 25 2022 - BIRMINGHAM Utilita Arena
Wed October 26 2022 - MANCHESTER AO Arena
We don't run any advertising! Our editorial content is solely funded by lovely people like yourself using Stereoboard's listings when buying tickets for live events. To keep supporting us, next time you're looking for concert, festival, sport or theatre tickets, please search for "Stereoboard". It costs you nothing, you may find a better price than the usual outlets, and save yourself from waiting in an endless queue on Friday mornings as we list ALL available sellers!
