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Blackmore Returns for “Smoke on the Water” Encore After 33 Years

8/13/2026

28 3 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

Ritchie Blackmore performed “Smoke on the Water” with Deep Purple on August 12, 2026.
Ian Gillan introduced Blackmore before the song, noting the performance ended a 33-year, since-1993 absence from the band.
Blackmore announced surprise on Instagram Live on August 11, 2026, saying he had not played rock in 25 years, had four herniated discs treated with a steroid injection, and had asked Gillan in Portugal for a one-song encore.

History

Historical Context

Hyde Park’s rock legacy began with Blackhill Enterprises’ 29 June 1968 concert and peaked when the Rolling Stones headlined a free 5 July 1969 show with King Crimson that attracted an estimated 250,000-500,000 fans. That massive turnout set a precedent for later ticketed spectacles and other major acts, such as the Barclaycard British Summer Time series launched in 2013.

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Story summary

Ritchie Blackmore performed “Smoke on the Water” with Deep Purple on August 12, 2026.
Ian Gillan introduced Blackmore before the song, noting the performance ended a 33-year, since-1993 absence from the band.
Blackmore announced surprise on Instagram Live on August 11, 2026, saying he had not played rock in 25 years, had four herniated discs treated with a steroid injection, and had asked Gillan in Portugal for a one-song encore.

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