Steve Morse is forced to step off Deep Purple due to a serious health problem his wife, Janine, is facing.
“Hello, everybody. I’ve just done a few gigs with the band, after years (!?) of not playing live. It’s a bittersweet, wonderful time to get together. However, my dear wife Janine is currently battling cancer. At this point, there are so many possible complications and unknowns, that whatever time we have left in our lives, I simply must be there with her.
“I am not leaving the band – I hope that after she gets a clean bill of health, I can re-join the tour. However, I am not seeing any likely situation which would allow me to do overseas touring in the immediate future.
“I continue to be privileged to be a part of the Purple family tree, and also to get to feel the amazing support of so many loyal fans and the rest of the band. There’s a certified world class guitarist ready to take over for the live shows whom everybody will surely be happy to hear.
“I appreciate all your sincere prayers for Janine and thank you all.”
42-year old Simon McBride, who have worked with both Ian Gillan and Don Airey in the past, will stand in for Steve Morse.
