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The “best composer” of the past century, according to Ritchie Blackmore, is a classic rock icon
Former Deep Purple and Rainbow guitarist Ritchie Blackmore called Paul McCartney “the best composer we’ve had in the past hundred years” in a 1987 interview. His praise came as he defended McCartney from negative press coverage, and reflected Blackmore’s wider admiration for The Beatles, whom he regarded as probably the greatest band ever.
The article points to the Beatles’ songwriting as a reason for Blackmore’s respect, including the lasting melody of “Eleanor Rigby”. Deep Purple recorded a slower, psychedelic version of “Help!” on their 1968 debut album, showing how the song endured through a very different arrangement. Blackmore’s connection to the band continued in 1984, when George Harrison joined Deep Purple on stage in Australia to play “Lucille”.
In short
- Blackmore ranked McCartney as the past century’s best composer.
- He praised The Beatles as possibly the greatest band ever.
- Deep Purple covered “Help!” and later played with George Harrison.