In an engaging conversation with VintageRock Pod, Scottish rock vocalist Doogie White delved into his rewarding collaboration with guitar icon Ritchie Blackmore, as well as its resulting impact on his career. Known for his work with Blackmore’s Rainbow, the musician shared fascinating insights into the music industry and the opportunities that emerged from collaborating with legendary artists and bands like Blackmore and Deep Purple.
White joined Rainbow in 1994, and it was Ritchie Blackmore’s keen eye for talent that brought the singer into the fold, as he always had a knack for discovering talented artists and helping to propel their careers forward. In White’s case, working with the guitarist gave him the exposure and experience needed to solidify his place in the world of rock music.
During the interview, the vocalist pointed that out and stated that Blackmore’s greatest gift to the rock music industry is his ability to pick talented individuals and give them a chance to establish their careers. He specifically mentioned how David Coverdale could have still been selling suits in Redcar if it weren’t for the guitarist, emphasizing the significant difference he made in his career.
Rainbow’s iconic star implied that, as the lead singer of Whitesnake, Coverdale’s success serves as a testament to the transformative power of Blackmore’s support. He emphasized that all artists like David Coverdale and himself, who had the opportunity to expand their musical course thanks to Ritchie’s influence, should be grateful for the chances they were given.
Sharing his and others’ experiences with the Deep Purple guitarist, White remarked:
“You know, he’s very good at bringing new people in and taking people – not necessarily off the streets but out of clothing shops or being a coach builder or whatever. Then, he sets you free to do what – you know, he sucks you in, bleeds you dry, and then sets you free, and you can go off, and if you can find your wings, you can fly. Some do, some don’t. That’s one of his great gifts to the world of rock and roll. It’s the amount of people who he has given careers that – you would maybe never have heard of.
We’ve all got to be very grateful for that. I mean, David Coverdale could still be selling suits in Redcar. Ronnie Dio could still be trying to get off to do something. Graham Bonnet could still crooning away in Australia. I could still be sweeping somebody’s floor in London. But he gave us all this opportunity to go out there and make something of ourselves. If you grasped it, you grasped it. If you didn’t, you didn’t.”
Doogie White’s recent interview serves as a reminder of the significant impact that established artists like Ritchie Blackmore can have on the careers of others. As we enjoy the music crafted by these talented individuals, let’s appreciate the mentors and trailblazers who have helped them find their wings and achieve success in the world of rock and roll.
