Deep Purple rocks Istanbul with surprising Turkish March and anthem

Deep Purple, the pioneering British rock band considered a cornerstone of modern hard rock and heavy metal music, delighted fans in Istanbul with a thrilling performance. The group took the stage at KucukCiftlik Park as part of their “=1 MORE TIME” world tour, sponsored by Volume Up Organization Company and STAR TV.

Led by founding vocalist Ian Gillan, the lineup included Simon McBride on guitar, Roger Glover on bass guitar, Ian Paice on drums, and Don Airey on keyboards. The concert opened with their iconic hit “Highway Star,” followed by a lineup that included favorites such as “A Bit on the Side,” “Hard Lovin’ Man,” “Into the Fire,” “Portable Door,” “Anya,” and the timeless classic “Smoke on the Water.”

Addressing the enthusiastic crowd, vocalist Ian Gillan expressed his joy at returning to Istanbul, saying, “It’s wonderful to be back in Istanbul. We feel incredible energy from you on stage. We love you all.”

Turkish audience amazed by the performance of Turkish March and Independence March

During the performance, keyboardist Don Airey paid tribute to Jon Lord, a founding member who passed away in 2012, with the song “Uncommon Man.”

Airey’s keyboard solo, which incorporated Mozart’s “Turkish March” and Türkiye’s national anthem, ” Independence March,” received thunderous applause from the audience.

The approximately one-and-a-half-hour concert concluded with “Black Night,” a hit from the band’s 1970 repertoire.

Who is Deep Purple?

Formed in London in 1967 by Jon Lord, Roger Glover, Ian Gillan, Ritchie Blackmore, and Ian Paice, Deep Purple has undergone numerous lineup changes over its 57-year career.

The band has included notable members such as David Coverdale, Glenn Hughes, Joe Lynn Turner, and Joe Satriani and has released 22 studio albums.

Deep Purple has been a significant influence on bands like Queen, Uriah Heep, Metallica, Aerosmith, Bon Jovi, and Alice In Chains.

Ranked fifth among “The World’s Most Influential Bands” by Planet Rock Radio Station, Deep Purple has visited Türkiye five times, most recently performing in Istanbul on May 25, 2022.