Legendary guitarist Ritchie Blackmore is set to return to the stage with a rare and highly anticipated tour celebrating 28 years of his Renaissance folk-rock group, Blackmore’s Night. Known for his iconic status in rock history and his genre-defying creativity, Blackmore’s announcement offers fans a long-awaited opportunity to witness his distinctive musical style live—combining his signature guitar mastery with the enchanting sounds of medieval-inspired folk.
The tour, aptly titled “28 Years of Moonlight and Music”, will take place across six major countries and is expected to begin this fall. Blackmore, whose career spans over five decades, is revered not only for his groundbreaking work with Deep Purple and Rainbow, but also for his unique transition into Renaissance-themed acoustic music with Blackmore’s Night, formed in 1997 alongside his wife and lead vocalist, Candice Night.
For fans of both classic rock and folk music, this tour is more than just a concert series—it’s a celebration of Blackmore’s remarkable versatility as a guitarist and composer. Known for effortlessly moving between electric and acoustic guitar, Blackmore’s playing style is deeply expressive, blending intricate fingerpicking, fluid melodic lines, and haunting harmonies.
A Rare Musical Experience
With venues carefully selected to complement the group’s medieval and fantasy aesthetic—such as historic theatres, open-air gardens, and even castle courtyards—the concerts promise a fully immersive experience. The setlist is expected to span the band’s 28-year catalog, from early classics like Shadow of the Moon to more recent material from their 2021 album Nature’s Light.
“This is a very special moment for us,” Blackmore said in the official tour announcement. “Playing this music live, in the kinds of venues that bring it to life, is a magical experience. It’s about more than just the notes—it’s a journey into a different time.”
The Magic of Candice Night and Blackmore’s Legacy
Candice Night’s evocative vocals and poetic lyrics remain at the heart of Blackmore’s Night, with songs often drawing on themes from mythology, nature, and history. Her stage presence and connection with the audience add a rich theatrical layer to the band’s live performances.
The tour also reaffirms Blackmore’s lasting influence on multiple generations of musicians. Whether shredding electrifying solos with a Stratocaster or delicately picking melodies on a mandola, his musicianship remains unparalleled. He has long been praised for seamlessly blending classical, rock, and folk traditions into a sound that’s entirely his own.
Anticipation Builds
Fans across Europe, North America, and Japan are already expressing excitement as early ticket information begins circulating. Limited VIP packages are rumored to include meet-and-greet opportunities and exclusive memorabilia.
As anticipation builds, Blackmore’s Night invites fans old and new to reconnect with the timeless spirit of music that transcends eras. For Ritchie Blackmore, this tour is more than a look back—it’s a continuation of a creative journey that still captivates, enchants, and inspires.
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