Former Deep Purple guitarist Steve Morse recently discussed his relationship with Ritchie Blackmore. He explained how Blackmore remained loyal to him despite media pressure to criticize him. Morse shared these insights in an interview with American Musical Supply.
The guitarist addressed how their professional relationship developed into a personal friendship, despite potential tensions that could have arisen from media expectations.
“I actually get along great with Ritchie. We’re email pals — we’re not really sharing war stories, but we just have a pleasant camaraderie there,” Morse said.
He went on to explain how the media attempted to create conflict between them when he departed from the band.
“It was nice that it turned out that way, because he was set up to… When I left, the guns were aimed, not by him, but by the media. ‘Would you like to take a shot, Mr. Blackmore?’ [laughs],” Morse continued.
The relationship between Morse and Blackmore represents a unique chapter in Deep Purple’s history, spanning nearly three decades of professional respect despite minimal direct contact.
Guitar Player reported that Morse became Deep Purple’s longest-serving guitarist during his 28-year tenure from 1994 to 2022. He contributed to eight studio albums and extensive touring. His appointment came after Blackmore’s second departure from the band, marking a significant transition in the group’s musical direction. Morse brought his fusion-oriented style from the Dixie Dregs, emphasizing virtuosic jams that aligned with Deep Purple’s live evolution.
The guitarist faced considerable challenges in filling Blackmore’s legendary position. Guitar World noted that Morse struggled to adapt Blackmore’s bluesy licks while impressing conservative fans who preferred the original sound. Despite these challenges, he formed a strong musical bond with keyboardist Jon Lord, who supported his improvisational and classical-rock ideas throughout their collaboration.
Morse’s departure from Deep Purple in July 2022 was driven by personal circumstances rather than professional conflicts. Sonic Perspectives revealed that he stepped away to care for his wife during her battle with cancer. The band moved forward with Simon McBride as his replacement. Morse has since shut the door on potential one-off performances with the group, indicating a definitive end to his Deep Purple chapter.
Throughout his tenure, Morse consistently acknowledged the impossibility of truly replacing Blackmore. He positioned himself as bringing a distinct evolution rather than imitation. The Straight documented that he expressed gratitude for Blackmore’s “remarkably restrained” public comments over the years. He noted opportunities for criticism that Blackmore chose to avoid despite Morse feeling like a “giant target” for both Blackmore and fans.
