R.I.P. Jon Lord 1941-2012
He collaborated with entire symphonies throughout his career and oversaw numerous solo outings and projects, but Jon Lord will always be remembered most for what he added to British rock heavyweights Deep Purple. It’s been reported that Lord died today, July 16, following a pulmonary embolism and a long fight with pancreatic cancer. He had turned 71 last month.
As the organist for Deep Purple, he was among the main distinguishing factors of the band. In a crowded and still just burgeoning heavy rock scene, his Hammond organ became their signature. Until he retired in 2002, he was a constant in an ever-changing lineup, and his influence can still be heard around the world today — not to mention Deep Purple‘s work itself, the appeal of which has only grown with time.
On behalf of myself and The Obelisk, condolences to Jon Lord‘s friends and family and to Deep Purple fans everywhere.
Tags: Deep Purple, Jon Lord, Jon Lord dead, Jon Lord death, Jon Lord Deep Purple, Jon Lord Hammond solo, Sad shit
Quite a sad day in history. I saw him live the first time in 1980 with Whitesnake and then again in 1984 with the first MKIII reunion tour in the USA. I would see him only one more time with Deep Purple after but he for sure was one of the best, if not the best Hammond players in rock and roll ever…Crank up some Deep Purple now….
What a bummer. Saw the 84 DP tour and he was super badass, rocking the shit out of his Hammonds so hard they nearly fell over. Sad bummer.
What a huge loss for music this is… First Richard Wright, now Jon Lord… Nonetheless, their sublime music will stay with us forever. RIP geniuses!