We hate to report that original Deep Purple drummer Ian Paice is temporarily sidelined. Recently inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, Paice is the one constant in a band that has seen a lot of turnover over the years. The band is scrapping some planned concerts in Scandanavia.
This statement has appeared on the Deep Purple website:
MESSAGE FROM IAN PAICE
JUNE 16, 2016
To all the people who were expecting to see Deep Purple in Sweden and Denmark this week I would like to let you know the reason the shows were not possible,and also to stop all the speculation and rumours.
On the morning of the 14th of June I woke up to find that the right side of my body was feeling numb and I could not control my right hand and fingers.
So I had myself admitted to hospital where I was diagnosed with having suffered a “mini stroke”, or TIA. The hospital staff in Stockholm were amazing and started my treatment straight away.
After both CT and MIR scans there was found to be no serious or permanent damage. As of this moment all I am suffering is a slightly numb right side of the face a tingling sensation in my right hand. My dexterity in the hand is coming back quickly and I fully expect to re commence touring next month.
So now I have a set of tablets which have to be taken every day to ensure it doesn’t happen again!.
So sorry for not being able to play for you.
And I’m sorry for myself!
These are the first shows I have missed with DP since its formation in 1968.
Thanks to all the people who have shown concern and sent their best wishes.
-Ian Paice.