On January 28, 1973, Ritchie Blackmore delivered one of his most electrifying performances with Deep Purple at the RAI (Rijksmuseum voor Internationale Handel) in Amsterdam, Netherlands. This concert was part of the band’s European tour supporting their iconic Machine Head album, released the previous year. At the time, Deep Purple was at the height of their fame, and Blackmore, the enigmatic and technically gifted guitarist, was a central force in their powerful live presence.
Onstage that night, Blackmore captivated the audience with his trademark blend of classical phrasing and heavy blues-infused riffs. His performance of “Highway Star” was particularly unforgettable, showcasing his lightning-fast picking and expressive bends, which helped cement the song as a hard rock anthem. During “Smoke on the Water,” the crowd erupted as Blackmore’s iconic riff filled the hall, and his improvised solos stretched the song into new sonic territories, proving his improvisational genius.
Known for his moody stage presence, Blackmore rarely interacted with the crowd, preferring to communicate through his guitar. Clad in black and armed with his Fender Stratocaster, he struck a commanding figure under the stage lights. His interplay with Jon Lord’s Hammond organ and Ian Paice’s dynamic drumming created a tight yet explosive sound that was both technically masterful and emotionally intense.
The RAI venue, usually reserved for more formal events, was transformed into a temple of hard rock that night, echoing with the raw power of Deep Purple’s performance. Blackmore’s showmanship, which often included smashing guitars or playing with the instrument behind his head, was in full display. The Amsterdam concert remains a memorable chapter in Deep Purple’s storied live legacy, and a shining example of Ritchie Blackmore’s unmatched stage presence during the golden era of rock.
