Deep Purple ProfileBritish hard rock and heavy metal icons Deep Purple have postponed two German shows in their tour itinerary, citing frontman Ian Gillan’s “medical emergency” and hospitalisation.
Deep Purple have been on tour since August, with more dates added due to demand, taking them into November and December. Their shows at Leipzig’s Qi Arena on Saturday, 31 October, and at Hamburg’s Sporthalle on Sunday, 1 November, were postponed.
At the time of publication, the band’s shows this week (3, 4, 6, 7 November) are still scheduled to go ahead. The band announced the postponement of the weekend’s shows on social media.
“With great disappointment, Deep Purple must announce that they are unable to perform as scheduled tonight at the QI Arena (Leipzig) and tomorrow evening at the Sporthalle (Hamburg),” their statement reads. “This comes as a result of a medical emergency involving Ian Gillan, which has resulted in his current hospitalisation.”
The statement continued, “We understand that this announcement comes at short notice and share the disappointment of all our wonderful fans that we are unable to perform in Leipzig and Hamburg.
“Deep Purple and their team are focused on finding a suitable time to reschedule both these shows. All tickets purchased will be valid for the rescheduled dates.
“With the greatest love and respect... Deep Purple.”
No further updates on Gillan’s condition were shared.
In July, Deep Purple released their latest album, Splat!, the 24th album in their discography.
The band described the effort as “the heaviest Deep Purple album in many years,” with the lyrics exploring an end-of-humanity concept and Gillan showcasing his original screaming vocal style for the first time in many years. The album debuted at #19 in Australia upon its release.
Deep Purple last visited Australia in February and March 2013, playing in arenas across the country on their World Tour. They were joined by special guests Journey.
They were set to return to Australia for the Pandemonium Festival in 2024, but dropped off the bill alongside Placebo, Dead Kennedys, and others before the event took place.
