RAINBOW - Long Live Rock and Roll - 12" Vinyl LP Album

"Long Live Rock and Roll," released on 9 April 1978, represents a pivotal moment in rock history. The collaboration between Ritchie Blackmore and Ronnie James Dio produced a groundbreaking album that blended hard rock with medieval influences. Tracks like "Long Live Rock and Roll" and "Gates of Babylon" became anthems, solidifying Rainbow's legacy. This web page has photos of album covers, inner sleeves, record labels together with production details, musicians and track-listing.

Album Front Cover Photo of RAINBOW - Long Live Rock and Roll

Album Description:

Music has always been a universal language that transcends barriers and connects people across generations. In the world of rock music, few bands have left an indelible mark on the genre like Rainbow. Their iconic album, "Long Live Rock and Roll", released on a 12" Vinyl LP, stands as a testament to their musical brilliance and enduring legacy.

1. The Birth of a Rock Masterpiece:

"Long Live Rock and Roll" was released in 1978, marking the third studio album by Rainbow. Led by legendary guitarist Ritchie Blackmore, who had previously been a founding member of Deep Purple, Rainbow brought together a lineup of exceptionally talented musicians. The album showcased their distinctive sound, blending elements of hard rock, heavy metal, and classical influences.

2. Tracklist and Musical Excellence:

The album's tracklist is a testament to the band's musical prowess. From the powerful and anthemic title track, "Long Live Rock and Roll", to the epic and hauntingly beautiful "Rainbow Eyes", each song takes listeners on a unique sonic journey. The album also features rock classics like "Gates of Babylon" and "Kill the King", which exemplify Rainbow's ability to create energetic and memorable tracks.

3. Vinyl: A Gateway to Nostalgia:

The experience of listening to "Long Live Rock and Roll" on a 12" Vinyl LP adds a layer of nostalgia and authenticity. The vinyl format allows for a more immersive experience, with its large album cover, intricate artwork, and tangible connection to the music. The warmth and depth of sound that vinyl records provide give the album a unique charm, enhancing the listening experience for fans and collectors alike.

4. Artwork and Visual Appeal:

The album cover artwork of "Long Live Rock and Roll" is as iconic as the music itself. Designed by famed fantasy artist Ken Kelly, known for his work with Kiss and Manowar, the cover features a powerful image of a knight riding a winged steed, surrounded by a colorful rainbow. The artwork perfectly captures the spirit and essence of Rainbow's music, making it visually striking and instantly recognizable.

5. Enduring Impact and Legacy:

"Long Live Rock and Roll" is not just an album; it represents a pivotal moment in the history of rock music. Rainbow's ability to fuse intricate guitar work, powerful vocals, and epic songwriting created a unique sound that influenced countless bands in the years to come. The album continues to inspire musicians and rock enthusiasts, serving as a testament to the enduring power of the genre.

Production and Recording Information

Bruce Payne - Management

The album: "RAINBOW - Long Live Rock and Roll" was produced by: Martin Birch

Martin Birch Martin Birch was an English music producer and engineer who was active from the late 1960s to the early 2000s. He was born on 26th June 1948 in East Molesey, England, and began his career as a producer and engineer in the late 1960s, working with several notable British bands of the time, including Fleetwood Mac and Deep Purple.

Birch's biggest contributions to music came in the 1970s and 1980s, when he worked as a producer and engineer for several of the most influential and popular heavy metal bands of the era, including Black Sabbath, Rainbow, and most notably, Iron Maiden. He was an important figure in the development of the heavy metal genre, and is widely regarded as one of the most influential and important producers of heavy metal music.

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Birch's approach to production was characterized by his use of powerful and dynamic sound, which helped to define the sound of heavy metal in the 1970s and 1980s. He was known for his ability to bring out the best in the musicians he worked with, and for his willingness to experiment and take risks in the studio. He was also known for his commitment to quality and his attention to detail, which helped to ensure that the albums he produced had a timeless quality and still sound great decades after their original release.

Birch worked with Iron Maiden for over two decades, producing several of the band's most iconic and enduring albums, including "The Number of the Beast," "Powerslave," and "Somewhere in Time." He was an important part of the band's creative process, and helped to shape the band's sound and style.

Martin Birch retired from music production in the early 2000s, but his legacy lives on through the music he produced and the countless musicians he inspired and influenced. He is widely regarded as one of the most important figures in the history of heavy metal music, and his contributions to the genre continue to be celebrated and revered.

Martin Birch's production style was known for its clarity, power and dynamic sound. He was an early adopter of using multi-track recording and employed innovative recording techniques, such as creating layered soundscapes by recording and re-recording guitar parts multiple times, to achieve his desired sound. He was also known for his use of echo and reverb to create a sense of depth and space in his recordings.

Birch was known for his ability to bring out the best in the musicians he worked with and his hands-on approach to production. He was often involved in the arrangements and would often suggest changes to the songs to enhance their impact. He was also known for his attention to detail, taking the time to get the sound just right, and his dedication to quality, always striving to make each album sound as good as it could.

Aside from his work with Iron Maiden, Birch also produced albums for several other influential heavy metal bands, including Judas Priest, Black Sabbath and Rainbow. He was also sought after by other musicians from outside of the heavy metal genre, and worked with artists such as Fleetwood Mac, The Move, and Deep Purple.

Birch was awarded with several gold and platinum records for his work, and was recognized for his contributions to the heavy metal genre with induction into the Heavy Metal Hall of Fame in 2006.

Although Martin Birch retired from music production in the early 2000s, his legacy continues to inspire and influence musicians and producers today. He is widely regarded as one of the most important and influential figures in the history of heavy metal music, and his work continues to be celebrated and enjoyed by fans of the genre around the world.

Album cover design: Maxi Chan

Album cover illustration: Debbie Hall

Music Genre:

British Hard Rock, Classic Rock

Label & Catalognr:

Polydor 2391 335

Packaging:

This 12" LP black vinyl music record comes comes in a Fold Open Cover (FOC), which is also also known as a Gatefold cover. The inner pages of this album cover contains photos of the audience during a live concert. iIt also ncludes the original custom inner sleeve with album details, complete lyrics of all songs by and artwork/photos

Media Format:

Record Format: 12" Vinyl Stereo Gramophone Record
Total Album (Cover+Record) weight: 230 gram  

Year & Country:

1978 Made in the Netherlands

Musicians:
  • Ritchie Blackmore - Lead 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.

  • Ronnie James Dio - Vocals

    Ronald James Padavona, better known as Ronnie James Dio, was born on 10 July 1942, in Portsmouth, New Hampshire. He would later become one of the most influential and iconic figures in the history of heavy metal music. Dio's powerful vocals, distinct stage presence, and songwriting abilities earned him the title of the "King of Heavy Metal".

    Dio's musical journey began in 1957 when he formed his first band called The Vegas Kings, where he showcased his talents as a lead singer. Over the next few years, he went on to perform with various bands, including Ronnie and the Rumblers and Ronnie and the Redcaps. These early experiences helped him develop his vocal skills and stage persona.

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    In 1961, Dio joined Ronnie and the Prophets, a band that gained some local popularity. During this time, he experimented with different musical styles and expanded his repertoire. In 1967, the band changed its name to The Electric Elves and later simply The Elves. As The Elves, they played a blend of rock and blues, laying the groundwork for Dio's future ventures.

    In 1972, the band transformed once again and became known as ELF. Their music continued to evolve, incorporating elements of hard rock and progressive rock. ELF released three studio albums, showcasing Dio's exceptional vocal range and his ability to captivate audiences.

    Dio's big breakthrough came in 1975 when he joined the British rock band Rainbow, founded by former Deep Purple guitarist Ritchie Blackmore. With Dio as the lead vocalist, Rainbow gained international recognition and released several critically acclaimed albums. Dio's powerful vocals and poetic lyrics contributed to the band's success, and he quickly became a respected figure in the rock music scene.

    In 1979, Dio made yet another significant move in his career by joining Black Sabbath, replacing the band's original vocalist, Ozzy Osbourne. With Dio, Black Sabbath released the classic albums "Heaven and Hell" (1980) and "Mob Rules" (1981), which revitalized the band's sound and solidified their place in heavy metal history.

    In 1982, Dio formed his own band, simply named DIO, and embarked on a highly successful solo career. The band released numerous albums, including the critically acclaimed "Holy Diver" (1983) and "The Last in Line" (1984), which showcased Dio's songwriting abilities and his powerful vocals.

    Dio reunited with Black Sabbath for a brief period from 1991 to 1992 and again from 2006 to 2010 under the name Heaven & Hell. The band released the album "The Devil You Know" (2009) before Dio's untimely death in 2010.

    Throughout his career, Ronnie James Dio influenced countless musicians and fans with his distinctive voice, theatrical stage presence, and unwavering passion for heavy metal. His lyrics often explored fantasy and mythology, adding depth and a unique dimension to his music.

    Ronnie and the Rumblers, Ronnie and the Red Caps, Elves, Elf, Black Sabbath, DIO, Heaven and Hell)
  • Cozy Powell - Drums

    Cozy Powell, born as Colin Flooks, was a renowned British drummer hailing from Cirencester, Gloucestershire. He left an indelible mark on the music industry through his exceptional drumming skills and his contributions to numerous hard rock and heavy metal bands. Powell's career spanned from 1968 to 1998, during which he showcased his talent and versatility in over two dozen bands, leaving a lasting impact on the genre.

    Born on 29 December 1947, Powell developed an early interest in music and began playing drums at a young age. He honed his skills through dedication and practice, eventually gaining recognition for his technical proficiency and powerful playing style.

    Powell's breakthrough came in the late 1960s when he joined the band Bedlam, marking the beginning of his professional career in the music industry. From there, he embarked on a remarkable journey, collaborating with some of the most notable acts in hard rock and heavy metal.

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    One of Powell's notable achievements was his association with Black Sabbath, one of the pioneering bands in the heavy metal genre. He lent his drumming expertise to their album "Tyr" in 1990, contributing to the band's legacy. Powell's collaborations with other prominent bands included his work with the Michael Schenker Group, Rainbow, and Whitesnake.

    Throughout his career, Powell displayed his versatility by adapting to different musical styles and bands. His drumming prowess added depth and energy to each project he worked on. Powell was not only a skilled drummer but also a sought-after collaborator, thanks to his ability to seamlessly blend with various musicians and bring out the best in their performances.

    Apart from his work with bands, Powell also ventured into solo projects. He formed the band Cozy Powell's Hammer and released several albums showcasing his musical vision and drumming expertise. Powell's solo work allowed him to explore his creativity and demonstrate his capabilities as a bandleader.

    Powell's contributions extended beyond the stage and recording studio. He was known for his charismatic stage presence and energetic performances, captivating audiences around the world. His dynamic drum solos became a highlight of his live shows, earning him admiration and respect from fans and fellow musicians alike.

    Tragically, Powell's career was cut short on 5 April 1998, when he passed away in a car accident at the age of 50. His untimely demise shocked the music community, and the loss of his talent left a void that is still felt today.

  • Bob Daisley - Bass

    Bob Daisley is an accomplished bass guitar player hailing from Sydney, Australia. Born on 13 February 1950, Daisley has made significant contributions to the world of rock and metal music throughout his illustrious career. Renowned for his exceptional bass playing skills and songwriting abilities, he has played with some of the biggest names in the industry and has left an indelible mark on the music scene.

    Daisley's passion for music began at an early age, and he developed a strong interest in playing the bass guitar. Inspired by legendary bassists such as James Jamerson and Paul McCartney, he honed his skills and quickly established himself as a talented musician. In the late 1960s, Daisley joined various local bands in Australia, gaining experience and performing live extensively.

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    His big break came in the 1970s when he joined the rock band Kahvas Jute. The band released their debut album, "Wide Open," in 1971, which showcased Daisley's impressive bass playing and songwriting abilities. Despite the critical acclaim received, Kahvas Jute disbanded shortly after, leading Daisley to explore new opportunities.

    In the late 1970s, Daisley's career took a significant turn when he joined the iconic British rock band Rainbow, fronted by legendary guitarist Ritchie Blackmore. Daisley's contributions can be heard on Rainbow's classic albums "Rising" (1976) and "Long Live Rock 'n' Roll" (1978). His powerful bass lines and solid songwriting skills helped solidify his reputation as a prominent musician.

    Following his stint with Rainbow, Daisley continued to make a name for himself in the music industry. He collaborated with guitar virtuoso Gary Moore on several albums, including "Corridors of Power" (1982) and "Victims of the Future" (1983). Daisley's bass playing added depth and groove to Moore's melodic compositions.

    In 1980, Daisley became a pivotal member of the iconic band Ozzy Osbourne. Alongside guitarist Randy Rhoads, drummer Lee Kerslake, and keyboardist Don Airey, Daisley helped shape the sound of Osbourne's solo career. He played on the highly influential albums "Blizzard of Ozz" (1980) and "Diary of a Madman" (1981), contributing to hits like "Crazy Train" and "Flying High Again." Daisley's bass lines in these songs became legendary and showcased his ability to blend technicality with a strong sense of groove.

    Despite his success, Daisley's tenure with Ozzy Osbourne was not without controversy. Issues regarding songwriting credits and royalties emerged, leading to Daisley's departure from the band in the mid-1980s. However, his contributions to Osbourne's early solo albums remain highly regarded and celebrated by fans and fellow musicians alike.

    Throughout his career, Daisley has worked with numerous renowned artists, including Black Sabbath, Uriah Heep, and Yngwie Malmsteen, among others. His bass playing can be heard on several acclaimed albums, and he has left an enduring imprint on the rock and metal genres.

    Bob Daisley's musical prowess, versatility, and exceptional songwriting skills have firmly established him as one of the most respected bass guitarists in the industry. His ability to craft memorable bass lines and contribute to the overall sonic landscape of a song has made him a sought-after collaborator and a revered figure among music enthusiasts worldwide.

  • David Stone - Keyboards

      David Stone (Birth-name: Michael David Stoyanoff ) an English keyboardist and pianist who is best known for his work with the legendary rock band Rainbow. He joined Rainbow in 1981 and appeared on their album "Difficult to Cure." Stone was with the band for three years and performed on several tours with them.

     Before joining Rainbow, Stone was a session musician and worked with several notable artists, including The Alan Parsons Project, Kate Bush, and Gary Moore. He has also released several solo albums and continues to perform and record music.

     As a keyboardist, Stone is known for his versatility and dynamic playing style, which combines classical, jazz, and rock influences. He has received critical acclaim for his work with Rainbow and is regarded as one of the best keyboardists in the rock genre.

     Overall, David Stone is an accomplished musician with a long and varied career in the music industry. He continues to be a respected and sought-after performer and has made a significant impact on the rock music world.

Tracklisting Side One:
  1. Long Live Rock and Roll
  2. Lady of the Lake
  3. L.A. Connection
  4. Gates of Babylon
Tracklisting Side Two:
  1. Kill the King
  2. The Shed (Subtle)
  3. Sensitive to Light
  4. Rainbow Eyes

RAINBOW - Long Live Rock and Roll High Resolution & Quality Photos

Front Cover Photo Of RAINBOW - Long Live Rock and Roll
Front Cover Photo Of RAINBOW - Long Live Rock and Roll

 

Note: The images on this page are photos 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 )

Photo Of The Back Cover RAINBOW - Long Live Rock and Roll
Photo of album back cover RAINBOW - Long Live Rock and Roll

 

Photo One Of The Inner Gatefold RAINBOW - Long Live Rock and Roll
Photo of the left page inside cover RAINBOW - Long Live Rock and Roll

 

Photo Two Of The Inside Pages RAINBOW - Long Live Rock and Roll
Photo of the right page inside cover RAINBOW - Long Live Rock and Roll

 

Photo One Of The Original Custom Inner Sleeve RAINBOW - Long Live Rock and Roll
Photo One Of The Original Custom Inner Sleeve RAINBOW - Long Live Rock and Roll

 

Photo Two of the original custom inner sleeve RAINBOW - Long Live Rock and Roll
Photo Two of the original custom inner sleeve RAINBOW - Long Live Rock and Roll

 

Close up of record's label RAINBOW - Long Live Rock and Roll Side One:
Close up of record's label RAINBOW - Long Live Rock and Roll Side One

 

Close up of record's label RAINBOW - Long Live Rock and Roll Side Two:
Close up of record's label RAINBOW - Long Live Rock and Roll Side Two

 

Index of RAINBOW with RITCHIE BLACKMORE Vinyl Records and Album Gallery

Band Description:

Rainbow is a British hard rock band that was formed in 1975 by the former Deep Purple guitarist Ritchie Blackmore. The band has gone through several line-up changes, and their sound has evolved over the years, but their music has always been characterized by Blackmore's virtuoso guitar playing and a blend of hard rock, heavy metal, and progressive rock. This page will provide a brief history of Rainbow, explore the band's music, and discuss their impact on the world of hard rock.

Rainbow was formed in 1975 by Ritchie Blackmore after he left Deep Purple. The original line-up of the band consisted of Ronnie James Dio on vocals, Craig Gruber on bass, Gary Driscoll on drums, and Micky Lee Soule on keyboards. This line-up recorded the band's debut album, "Ritchie Blackmore's Rainbow," which was released in 1975. The album was a critical and commercial success, and it established Rainbow as one of the leading hard rock bands of the 1970s.

Over the years, Rainbow went through several line-up changes. Ronnie James Dio left the band in 1979 to join Black Sabbath, and he was replaced by Graham Bonnet. Bonnet sang on the band's third album, "Down to Earth," which was released in 1979 and featured the hit single "Since You've Been Gone." The band's next album, "Difficult to Cure," was released in 1981 and featured a new lead singer, Joe Lynn Turner. This line-up recorded three more albums, including "Straight Between the Eyes," "Bent Out of Shape," and "Stranger in Us All."

Rainbow disbanded in 1997, but Ritchie Blackmore re-formed the band in 2015 for a series of concerts in Europe. The new line-up of the band featured vocalist Ronnie Romero and keyboardist Jens Johansson, among others.

Rainbow's music is characterized by Ritchie Blackmore's virtuoso guitar playing, which combines elements of classical music with hard rock and heavy metal. The band's early albums, such as "Ritchie Blackmore's Rainbow" and "Rainbow Rising," are considered to be classic examples of the hard rock and heavy metal genres. These albums featured epic, riff-heavy songs with soaring vocals from Ronnie James Dio.

As the band's sound evolved, Rainbow began to incorporate more progressive rock elements into their music. The album "Difficult to Cure" featured a cover of Beethoven's Ninth Symphony, and the band's later albums featured more complex song structures and instrumental passages.

Rainbow is considered to be one of the most influential hard rock bands of the 1970s and 1980s. Their music has inspired countless other bands in the hard rock and heavy metal genres, and their influence can be heard in the work of bands such as Iron Maiden, Metallica, and Dream Theater.

Ritchie Blackmore's virtuoso guitar playing has also had a significant impact on the world of rock music. He is widely considered to be one of the greatest guitarists of all time, and his influence can be heard in the work of countless other guitarists.