RAINBOW Difficult to Cure British Hard Rock Album Cover Gallery & 12" Vinyl LP Discography Information #vinylrecords

Album Description & Collectors information:

Rainbow's "Difficult to Cure" was released in 1981 and is widely regarded as one of the band's most successful albums. It was the first album to feature Joe Lynn Turner as the lead vocalist, replacing Ronnie James Dio, who had left the band to pursue a solo career.

The album features a mix of hard rock and progressive rock with classical influences, and it includes several notable tracks, including the title track "Difficult to Cure," a reworking of Beethoven's Ninth Symphony, and the hit single "I Surrender." The album also features the talents of keyboardist Don Airey, who had previously worked with bands such as Ozzy Osbourne and Deep Purple.

The album was released in Germany on 12" vinyl LP and was produced by the band's guitarist, Ritchie Blackmore, and sound engineer Louis Austin. The album cover features an illustration of a dragon with its tongue sticking out, created by artist Jeff Cummins.

Critics praised the album for its musical diversity and technical prowess, with many noting the band's ability to seamlessly blend different genres of music. The album also helped to solidify Rainbow's place in the hard rock scene of the 1980s and helped to further establish the careers of Blackmore and Turner.

This album "RAINBOW - Difficult to Cure" includes the original custom inner sleeve with album details, complete lyrics of all songs by and artwork/photos

Music Genre:

British Hard Rock

Album Production information:

The album: "RAINBOW - Difficult to Cure" was produced by: Roger Glocer

Sound/Recording Engineer(s): Flemming Rasmussen

This album was recorded at: Sweet Silence Studios in Copenhagen, Denmark

Mastered at Sterling Sound, New York City by Greg Colvy

Album cover design and photos Hipgnosis

Hipgnosis was an English art group founded in 1968 by Storm Thorgerson, Aubrey Powell, and Peter Christopherson. The group was known for their innovative and creative album covers, which became iconic in the music industry. Hipgnosis worked with some of the most influential musicians of their time, including Pink Floyd, Led Zeppelin, and Yes.

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The group's name, "Hipgnosis," was a play on the words "hypnosis" and "hip." They believed that their art had the power to hypnotize people and transport them to another world, which was reflected in their album covers. The group's style was surreal and often incorporated elements of fantasy, science fiction, and the occult. Their designs were highly detailed and often required extensive planning and preparation.

One of the group's most famous album covers was for Pink Floyd's "The Dark Side of the Moon." The cover featured a prism refracting light into a rainbow, which became one of the most recognizable images in rock history. The design was so successful that it became synonymous with the band and their music. Another iconic design was for Led Zeppelin's "Houses of the Holy," which featured a group of naked children climbing on a rock formation. The image was highly controversial but helped to solidify the band's rebellious image.

Hipgnosis also worked with a number of other influential musicians, including Peter Gabriel, Black Sabbath, and Genesis. They designed the cover for Peter Gabriel's first solo album, which featured a photograph of Gabriel wearing a mask with only his eyes visible. The image became another iconic design and was later referenced in Gabriel's music video for "Sledgehammer."

The group's success continued into the 1980s, with designs for bands such as Scorpions and Styx. However, the rise of digital technology and the decline of album sales led to the group's decline. Hipgnosis disbanded in 1983, but their legacy lives on in the countless album covers they created.

Hipgnosis was not just an art group, but a collective of artists who had a significant impact on the music industry. Their innovative designs helped to define the visual style of rock music in the 1970s and 1980s. Their work was not just a complement to the music, but an essential part of the overall experience. They created a world that fans could enter into and lose themselves in, just like the music they were listening to.

Here is a web-page with a gallery of album covers created by Hipgnosis

Danish maestro Flemming Rasmussen shaped the sound of heavy metal. Metallica's thunderous albums? His work. Founder of legendary Sweet Silence Studios, he's produced icons across genres.

Sweet Silence Studios in Copenhagen, Denmark is a Danish music recording music in Copenhagen, Denmark. It is owned by Freddy Hansson and Flemming Rasmussen (producer of Metallica albums).

Record Label Information:

2391 506

Media Format:

12" LP Vinyl Stereo Gramophone Record

Total Album (Cover+Record) weight: 230 gram

Year & Country:

1981 Made in Germany

Personnel/Band Members and Musicians on: RAINBOW - Difficult to Cure

Ritchie Blackmore - Guitar

Ritchie Blackmore, born Richard Hugh Blackmore on April 14, 1945, in Weston-super-Mare, North Somerset, England, is an iconic English guitarist known for his contributions to the world of rock music. With a career spanning several decades, Blackmore has left an indelible mark on the genre and has been a driving force behind legendary bands such as Deep Purple and Ritchie Blackmore's Rainbow.

Born to parents Lewis J. Blackmore and Violet Short, Ritchie Blackmore showed a passion for music from an early age. He began playing the guitar as a teenager and quickly developed his skills, drawing inspiration from various musical styles. His dedication to the instrument paid off when he joined the band Shades of Deep Purple in 1968, which later became simply Deep Purple.

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As the lead guitarist of Deep Purple, Blackmore played a pivotal role in shaping the band's sound and achieving commercial success. During his time with Deep Purple, from 1968 to 1994, Blackmore contributed his distinctive guitar playing to numerous albums, including "In Rock" (1970), "Machine Head" (1972), and "Made in Japan" (1972). These albums showcased his exceptional talent for crafting powerful riffs, melodic solos, and intricate guitar arrangements that became hallmarks of Deep Purple's music.

In 1994, after years of creative differences and lineup changes within Deep Purple, Ritchie Blackmore decided to leave the band to explore new musical horizons. He formed his own rock band called Ritchie Blackmore's Rainbow, which allowed him greater creative freedom. With Rainbow , Blackmore continued to captivate audiences with his guitar prowess and released several successful albums, including "Rising" (1976) and "Straight Between the Eyes" (1982).

However, in 1997, Blackmore made a surprising shift in musical direction. He transitioned from rock to folk rock and embarked on a new journey with his girlfriend and later wife, Candice Night. Together, they formed the duo Blackmore's Night, fusing elements of Renaissance music, folk, and rock. With Blackmore's masterful guitar playing and Night's enchanting vocals, the duo garnered a loyal following and released a string of albums, including "Shadow of the Moon" (1997) and "Ghost of a Rose" (2003).

Ritchie Blackmore's ability to adapt to different musical styles and his unwavering commitment to his craft have solidified his status as one of the greatest guitarists in rock history. Known for his electrifying live performances and his unique blend of blues, classical, and hard rock influences, Blackmore has inspired generations of musicians and continues to be revered as a guitar virtuoso.

Throughout his life, Blackmore has been married multiple times. He married Margit Volkmar sometime between 1965 and 1969, Bärbel between 1969 and 1971, and Amy Rothman between 1981 and 1983. However, his most notable and enduring marriage has been to Candice Night, whom he married on May 8, 2008, when he was 63 years old and Night was 37 years old.

Ritchie Blackmore's musical journey has been one of constant exploration and reinvention. From his influential years with Deep Purple to the establishment of Rainbow and his subsequent foray into folk rock with Blackmore's Night, he has left an indelible mark on the rock music landscape. His virtuosity, innovative playing style, and enduring passion for music have earned him a rightful place among the legends of rock guitar.

Candice Night, While best known for her enchanting vocals and lyrical contributions to Blackmore's Night, Candice Night is an accomplished singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist who adds a captivating element to every project she touches.

From Long Island to a Renaissance Fair of the Heart

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Born in Long Island, New York, Candice Night's early life included a brief stint as a model. Music, however, was her true calling. A fateful meeting with legendary guitarist Ritchie Blackmore in 1989 led to not only a romantic connection, but the seeds of what would become their long-running collaborative project, Blackmore's Night.

Blackmore's Night: A Journey Through Time

Blackmore's Night has crafted a unique sonic blend merging Renaissance and folk influences with modern instrumentation. Night's ethereal vocals and poetic lyrics are central to their sound. She often plays woodwind instruments like the pennywhistle, adding another layer of delicate beauty to songs like "Shadow of the Moon" and "Under a Violet Moon." Blackmore's Night has released over ten studio albums, transporting listeners to a simpler time with their enchanting music.
Don Airey - Keyboards
Roger Glover - Bass

Roger David Glover, known professionally as Roger Glover, was born on November 30, 1945, in Brecon, Sir Powys, Wales, United Kingdom. He is the first child of Norman Glover and Brenda Glover.

Glover's career in the music industry began to take shape in the late 1960s when he joined the psychedelic rock band Episode Six as their bass guitarist. However, it was in 1969 when Glover received a major breakthrough by joining the iconic rock band Deep Purple . At the age of 24, he became the bass guitarist for Deep Purple, a role that would define much of his musical journey.

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In 1970, Glover contributed to Deep Purple's collaboration with the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra, conducted by Malcolm Arnold. This project showcased the band's versatility and experimental approach. The following year, at the age of 25, Glover played bass guitar on the highly influential albums "In Rock" and "Fireball." These albums solidified Deep Purple's status as one of the pioneers of hard rock and heavy metal.

Glover's contributions to Deep Purple continued throughout the 1970s and beyond. In 1972, at the age of 26, he played on the live album "Made in Japan," which is widely regarded as one of the greatest live recordings in rock history. He also played bass guitar on the album "Who Do We Think We Are" released the same year.

During his time with Deep Purple, Glover also ventured into music production. In 1973, at the age of 27, he produced the album "Loud And Proud" by Nazareth. He continued his work as a producer in 1974 with Nazareth's album "Rampant Mooncrest." In 1976, at the age of 30, Glover produced Rory Gallagher's album "Calling Card," showcasing his skills behind the scenes.

In 1979, Glover briefly left Deep Purple and joined Ritchie Blackmore's Rainbow as their bass guitarist. He played on the album "Down To Earth" and then rejoined Deep Purple in 1984, at the age of 38, for the album "Perfect Strangers." Glover's return brought a renewed energy to the band, and the album was a critical and commercial success.

Throughout the 1980s and 1990s, Glover continued to be an integral part of Deep Purple's lineup. He played bass guitar on albums such as "The House of Blue Light" (1987), "Nobody's Perfect" (1988), and "Slaves and Masters" (1990). His remarkable talent on the bass guitar added depth and precision to Deep Purple's sound.

In addition to his work with Deep Purple and Rainbow, Glover has also released solo albums and collaborated with other artists over the years. He has shown his versatility as a musician and a songwriter, continually pushing the boundaries of rock music.

Roger Glover's contributions to the world of rock music, both as a bass guitarist and a producer, have left an indelible mark. His ability to create melodic bass lines, combined with his technical expertise, has made him one of the most respected figures in the industry. His career, spanning several decades, showcases his passion, dedication, and unwavering commitment to his craft.
Bob Rondinellii - Drums
Joe Lynn Turner - Lead Vocals

Joe Lynn Turner, born Joseph Arthur Mark Linquito on 2 August 1951, is an American rock singer and songwriter who gained prominence as the lead vocalist for the legendary band Rainbow. With his powerful and versatile voice, Turner left an indelible mark on the music industry, earning him a reputation as one of the finest rock vocalists of his generation.

Born and raised in Hackensack, New Jersey, Turner's passion for music began at an early age. Influenced by the likes of Elvis Presley, Frank Sinatra, and James Brown, he developed a deep appreciation for various musical genres. Turner honed his vocal skills by performing in local bands and clubs throughout his teenage years, showcasing his natural talent and captivating stage presence.

In the late 1970s, Turner's career gained momentum when he became the lead vocalist for the band Fandango. The group released four albums, allowing Turner's voice to shine and gaining him recognition as a skilled vocalist. However, it was his collaboration with guitar virtuoso Ritchie Blackmore that would change the course of his musical journey.

In 1980, Turner received a life-altering invitation to join Rainbow, a band founded by Ritchie Blackmore after his departure from Deep Purple. Blackmore was in search of a new vocalist to take Rainbow's sound in a different direction, and he found the perfect fit in Turner. With his rich and soulful voice, Turner brought a new dynamic to Rainbow's music, blending elements of hard rock, blues, and melodic sensibilities.

Turner's tenure with Rainbow began with the album "Difficult to Cure" in 1981, followed by the critically acclaimed "Straight Between the Eyes" in 1982. However, it was the release of "Bent Out of Shape" in 1983 that solidified his status as Rainbow's lead vocalist. The album showcased Turner's exceptional vocal range and emotive delivery, contributing to its commercial success and fan adoration.

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So, why did Joe Lynn Turner join Rainbow? Turner's decision to join the band stemmed from a desire to challenge himself creatively and collaborate with some of the finest musicians in the industry. The opportunity to work alongside Ritchie Blackmore, a guitar legend, and be part of a band that had already achieved significant success was undoubtedly enticing for Turner. Moreover, Rainbow's musical style provided Turner with the perfect platform to showcase his vocal abilities, allowing him to leave an enduring legacy within the realm of rock music.

During his time with Rainbow, Turner's contributions extended beyond his vocal prowess. He co-wrote several songs, including the iconic hit "Stone Cold", which showcased his songwriting talent and added a personal touch to the band's repertoire.

While Turner's journey with Rainbow eventually came to an end in 1984, his impact on the band's sound and legacy remains undeniable. His time with Rainbow marked a pivotal chapter in his career, propelling him into the limelight and earning him a devoted fan base.

He left Rainbow in 1984 and went on to join Deep Purple in 1989, replacing Ian Gillan as the band's lead singer. During his time with Deep Purple, Turner recorded two albums and toured extensively, performing in front of large audiences around the world. After leaving Deep Purple in 1992, Turner continued to perform and record music as a solo artist.

Following his departure from Rainbow, Turner continued to pursue a successful solo career, releasing numerous albums and collaborating with renowned musicians across various projects. He has remained an active and respected figure in the rock music scene, touring and enchanting audiences with his powerful performances.

Joe Lynn Turner's decision to join Rainbow was a defining moment in his career, leading to a fruitful collaboration that left an indelible mark on the rock music landscape. With his extraordinary voice and undeniable talent, Turner's legacy as Rainbow's lead vocalist will forever be cherished by fans and recognized as a vital part of the band's storied history.

Complete Track-listing of the album "RAINBOW - Difficult to Cure"

The detailed tracklist of this record "RAINBOW - Difficult to Cure" is:

I Surrender
Spotlight Kid
No Release
Magic
Vielleicht das Nachste Zeit

Can't Happen Here
Freedom Fighter
Midtown Tunnel
Difficult to Cure
Beethoven Ninth

High Quality Photo of Album Front Cover "RAINBOW - Difficult to Cure"

High Resolution Photos of rainbow difficult to cure germany

Note: The photos on this page are of the actual album. Slight differences in color may exist due to the use of the camera's flash. Images can be zoomed in/out ( eg pinch with your fingers on a tablet or smartphone ).