Deep Purple co-founder Jon Lord dies, aged 71
Published Jul 16 2012, 19:15 BST | By Kristina Bustos
Jon Lord has died at the age of 71.The Deep Purple co-founder lost his battle to pancreatic cancer today (July 16) after suffering a pulmonary embolism.
© PA Images / m6019s/EMPICS Entertainment
He was surrounded by his family at the London Clinic. A statement added: "Jon passes from Darkness to Light."
Lord co-founded the iconic rock band in 1968 and served as their keyboard player and writer.
Deep Purple split in 1976 but reformed in 1984, releasing Perfect Strangers, their first album since 1975's Come Taste the Band.
Lord retired from Deep Purple in 2002.
Ha has also worked with other bands including Whitesnake, Paice, Ashton & Lord and The Artwoods.
Watch a music video for Deep Purple's 'Perfect Stangers' below:
My uncle used to tour with Deep Purple as a runner. RIP Jon x
July 17th 2012 at 10:41am
Rock God, RIP Jon, thanks for the great times and the music you leave behind
July 17th 2012 at 9:06am
A sad day. Not only had he been a member of one of the greatest rock bands but he also wrote and performed some fantastic music in his years after Deep Purple. A great gifted musician. Rest in peace
July 17th 2012 at 1:58am(+1 like)
Oh no... this is sad, a truly gifted musician
July 16th 2012 at 11:02pm(+1 like)