In thrilling news for rock and folk fans worldwide, legendary English guitarist Ritchie Blackmore has officially announced a long-awaited international tour to commemorate the 28th anniversary of his celebrated group, Blackmore’s Night. The announcement marks a major milestone in Blackmore’s iconic career and offers fans a rare chance to experience his unique fusion of Renaissance-inspired folk rock live on stage once again.
The upcoming tour will span six major countries, with concert dates scheduled across Europe and North America. This will be the first significant tour for Blackmore’s Night in several years, reigniting the excitement of longtime fans who have followed the group since its formation in 1997.
A Celebrated Musical Legacy
Ritchie Blackmore, best known as the founding guitarist of Deep Purple and Rainbow, surprised the music world nearly three decades ago when he shifted from hard rock to form Blackmore’s Night with singer and lyricist Candice Night. The group carved out a distinct musical niche, combining medieval, baroque, and folk elements with modern rock sensibilities. Over the years, they have released multiple acclaimed albums, including Shadow of the Moon, Fires at Midnight, and Nature’s Light, earning a loyal global following.
The upcoming tour is designed not only to celebrate this long-standing musical partnership but also to revisit the enchanting melodies and storytelling that have defined the group’s sound for nearly three decades.
Tour Details and Fan Anticipation
The tour, titled “28 Years of Moonlight and Music”, will kick off this fall and include stops in Germany, the United Kingdom, France, Italy, the United States, and Japan. Venues will include a mix of historic theatres, castles, and open-air stages—apt settings for the band’s Renaissance-inspired performances.
While specific dates are yet to be fully revealed, ticket pre-sales are expected to begin in late June, with VIP packages offering exclusive meet-and-greet opportunities, signed memorabilia, and limited-edition tour merchandise.
“This tour is a thank you to the fans who have supported Blackmore’s Night over the years and helped us keep this magical journey alive,” said Blackmore in the official press release. “It’s about the music, the mystery, and the celebration of something truly timeless.”
Candice Night’s Voice Remains the Heart of the Group
Candice Night, Blackmore’s wife and longtime creative partner, will once again take center stage with her ethereal vocals and commanding stage presence. Her lyrics, often inspired by nature, mythology, and romantic tales, are central to the group’s identity and atmosphere.
In a message to fans posted on social media, Night expressed her joy at returning to live performance: “This is going to be more than just a tour—it’s a gathering of kindred spirits who believe in magic, music, and the beauty of the old world. We can’t wait to see your faces and share this celebration with you.”
Legacy of Innovation and Influence
Although Ritchie Blackmore has long been recognized for his groundbreaking guitar work in hard rock and heavy metal, Blackmore’s Night showcases another side of his artistry—his passion for melody, acoustic instrumentation, and medieval musical traditions.
This tour stands as a testament to his ability to evolve and redefine his musical journey while remaining true to his artistic vision. It also marks a rare moment in contemporary music where past and present collide, offering audiences a timeless escape into a world of lutes, violins, and haunting harmonies.
Fans are encouraged to follow the official Blackmore’s Night website and social media channels for tour updates, ticket sales, and exclusive behind-the-scenes content as the countdown to the tour begins.
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