- From Deep Purple's Hammond to symphonic concertos: A maestro's fusion of rock and classical.
Jon Lord, a towering figure in the world of rock and classical music, is best known as the co-founder and keyboard virtuoso of Deep Purple. His Hammond organ and keyboard mastery became synonymous with the band's iconic sound, evident in classic tracks like "Smoke on the Water" and "Child in Time." Lord's musical journey, however, extended far beyond Deep Purple. He pursued his passion for classical music, composing concertos and orchestral pieces, and collaborated with diverse artists, including Whitesnake and Paice, Ashton & Lord. His innovative fusion of rock, blues, and classical influences left an indelible mark on music history.
Jon Lord whose full name was John Douglas Lord, was a highly talented British composer and keyboard player. He is best known for his exceptional performances with renowned bands such as Whitesnake, Deep Purple, as well as his successful solo career.
Jon Lord was born on 9 June 1941 in Leicester, Leicestershire, England, United Kingdom. He was the first child of Reginald Charles Lord, born on 18th December 1907, and Miriam Hudson, born on 16th October 1912. Sadly, when Jon Lord was 54 years old, his mother Miriam Hudson passed away in 1995. The following year, when he was 55, his father Reginald Charles Lord also passed away in 1996.
Jon Lord's professional journey as a musician began in 1968 when he joined the band Shades of Deep Purple. He was 27 years old at the time. The following year, in 1969, he continued his musical career as a member of the band Self-Titled (Mk I), also known as Deep Purple, when he was 28. Throughout the 1970s, he contributed his musical talents to various Deep Purple albums, including "In Rock" (1970), "Machine Head" (1971), "Fireball" (1971), "Made in Japan" (1972), "Who Do We Think We Are" (1973), and others. Additionally, during this time, Jon Lord released solo albums such as "Windows Continuo On Bach" (1974) and "Sarabande" (1975).
In the mid-1970s, Jon Lord expanded his musical horizons by working with Whitesnake, joining them in 1978 for their album "Trouble." He continued his collaboration with Whitesnake on the album "Live in the Heart of the City" (1980). In the early 1980s, he released another solo album titled "Before I Forget" (1982). Later, he reunited with Deep Purple for albums such as "Perfect Strangers" (1984), "The House of Blue Light" (1987), and "Slaves and Masters" (1990).
Tragically, on 16th July 2012, Jon Lord passed away in London, England, United Kingdom at the age of 71. His remarkable contributions to the world of music, both through his performances with Deep Purple, Whitesnake, and his solo work, left a lasting legacy. In 2012, he was laid to rest in Hambleden (St. Mary) New Churchyard, located in Hambleden, Wycombe District, Buckinghamshire, England. Jon Lord's exceptional talent and unforgettable compositions continue to inspire musicians and fans alike, ensuring that his impact on the music industry will never be forgotten.
Personal Life:
Jon Lord, born John Douglas Lord on June 9, 1941, in Leicester, England, was the son of Reginald Charles Lord and Miriam Hudson. Lord was married twice, first to Judith Feldman in 1969, with whom he had a daughter named Sarah. After their divorce in 1975, he married Vickie Gibbs and they had a daughter named Amy.
Tragically, Lord passed away on July 16, 2012, at the age of 71 in London, due to complications from pancreatic cancer, a diagnosis he received in 2011. He was laid to rest in Hambleden (St. Mary) New Churchyard in Buckinghamshire, England.