Iconic rock band Deep Purple, as well as music fans around the world, are this evening mourning the loss of legendary keyboardist and composer Jon Lord.
The 71-year-old founder of iconic British rock band Deep Purple, who is famed for not only his work with Deep Purple, but also Whitesnake, Paice, Ashton And Lord and the Flower Pot Men, had been suffering from pancreatic cancer and was surrounded by his family at the time of his death at a London clinic.
A statement released by Jon Lord’s PR representative reads:
“It is with deep sadness we announce the passing of Jon Lord, who suffered a fatal pulmonary embolism today, Monday 16th July at the London Clinic, after a long battle with pancreatic cancer. Jon was surrounded by his loving family.
“Jon Lord, the legendary keyboard player with Deep Purple co-wrote many of the bands legendary songs including Smoke On The Water and played with many bands and musicians throughout his career.
“Best known for his Orchestral work Concerto for Group & Orchestra first performed at Royal Albert Hall with Deep Purple and the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra in 1969 and conducted by the renowned Malcolm Arnold, a feat repeated in 1999 when it was again performed at the Royal Albert Hall by the London Symphony Orchestra and Deep Purple.
“Jon’s solo work was universally acclaimed when he eventually retired from Deep Purple in 2002.
“Jon passes from Darkness to Light.
Jon Lord 9 June 1941 – 16 July 2012.”
Jon co-wrote many of Deep Purple's songs, including the iconic 'Smoke On The Water.' He was also responsible for the immense organ work on 'Child In Time.'
RIP Jon Lord.
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