Ritchie Blackmore Slams Modern Music: ‘The Rubbish on Today’s Radio Is an Insult to Real Musicianship and Creativity’
Ritchie Blackmore, legendary guitarist and founding member of Deep Purple and Rainbow, has never been one to shy away from speaking his mind. Renowned for his groundbreaking riffs and technical prowess, Blackmore has long been a critic of the direction mainstream music has taken over the years. In a recent interview, he reignited the debate over modern music’s quality by candidly sharing his disdain for what he calls “the rubbish” dominating today’s radio. His comments have sparked widespread discussion among fans and musicians alike, with many echoing his sentiments about the state of popular music.
Blackmore’s pointed remarks not only reflect his personal frustration but also highlight the growing divide between traditional musicianship and the current trends in the music industry. For those who hold a deep appreciation for rock’s golden era, his words serve as both a critique of modern music and a call to preserve the art of true musicianship.
A Living Legend’s Perspective
Ritchie Blackmore’s career spans more than five decades, during which he has cemented his place as one of the greatest guitarists in rock history. His iconic riffs in songs like “Smoke on the Water” and “Highway Star” are etched into the annals of rock music, inspiring generations of musicians.
Having experienced the evolution of music firsthand, Blackmore has consistently maintained a high standard for creativity and authenticity. His disdain for what he perceives as a lack of artistry in contemporary music is deeply rooted in his belief that musicianship should be at the forefront of any musical endeavor.
“Music used to be about passion, skill, and storytelling,” Blackmore said in the interview. “Now it’s just about auto-tune, repetitive beats, and shallow lyrics. The rubbish on today’s radio is an insult to real musicianship.”
The Decline of Musicianship?
Blackmore’s criticism of modern music is not unfounded. Many music enthusiasts and critics have lamented the shift from traditional instruments and live performances to heavily produced, digitally manipulated tracks. Genres like rock, blues, and jazz, which once dominated the airwaves, have been largely overshadowed by pop, hip-hop, and electronic music.
One of Blackmore’s main grievances is the over-reliance on technology in music production. “You listen to a song today, and it sounds like a computer wrote it,” he said. “Where’s the soul? Where’s the creativity? Back in the day, we had to actually play our instruments, and every note meant something. Now, it’s all about pressing buttons.”
This sentiment is echoed by many veteran musicians who feel that the artistry of crafting a song has been replaced by a formulaic approach designed to maximize commercial success.
The State of Modern Radio
Blackmore’s comments also touch on the homogenization of music on mainstream radio. In an era where streaming platforms and algorithms dictate what gets airplay, there is a noticeable lack of diversity in the music being promoted. Many radio stations play the same handful of songs on repeat, often favoring chart-topping hits over lesser-known, genre-defying tracks.
“Radio used to be a place where you discovered new artists and sounds,” Blackmore said. “Now it’s just the same bland garbage over and over again. It’s all about what sells, not what’s good.”
This shift has led to the marginalization of rock and other genres that once thrived on the radio. For artists like Blackmore, who rose to fame during a time when rock was at its peak, this decline is particularly disheartening.
A Changing Industry
The music industry has undergone a seismic transformation since Blackmore’s heyday. The rise of digital platforms, streaming services, and social media has democratized music distribution, allowing independent artists to reach global audiences. However, this has also created a saturated market where quantity often trumps quality.
Blackmore acknowledges the opportunities these changes have brought but remains critical of their impact on the integrity of music. “There’s so much music out there now, but most of it sounds the same,” he said. “It’s like people are afraid to take risks or do something different. They just want to follow the trend.”
This criticism extends to the artists themselves. Blackmore believes that many contemporary musicians prioritize fame and commercial success over honing their craft. “Back in my day, we played because we loved music,” he said. “Now it seems like people are in it for the Instagram likes and the endorsement deals.”
The Lost Art of the Guitar Hero
One of the most significant changes in modern music, according to Blackmore, is the decline of the guitar hero. During the 1970s and 1980s, virtuoso guitarists like Jimi Hendrix, Jimmy Page, and Eddie Van Halen were celebrated for their technical skill and innovative playing styles. Today, such figures are few and far between.
“Guitar used to be at the heart of rock music,” Blackmore lamented. “Now it’s like it’s an afterthought. You don’t hear those epic solos or those riffs that make your hair stand on end. It’s a lost art.”
For Blackmore, the decline of the guitar hero is emblematic of a broader trend: the diminishing importance of instrumental mastery in modern music. While technology has made it easier than ever to create and produce music, it has also devalued the skills required to play an instrument at a high level.
Fans Weigh In
Blackmore’s comments have sparked a lively debate among fans and music lovers. While many agree with his assessment of modern music, others argue that the industry is simply evolving and that every era has its share of good and bad music.
“I get where he’s coming from,” said one fan on social media. “There’s definitely a lot of junk on the radio, but there are also some amazing artists out there if you’re willing to look for them.”
Others see Blackmore’s criticism as a call to action. “He’s right—musicianship is being lost,” said another fan. “We need to support artists who are pushing boundaries and bringing real skill to their music.”
Blackmore’s Own Evolution
Despite his criticisms of modern music, Blackmore himself is no stranger to evolution. After leaving Deep Purple and Rainbow, he shifted his focus to Renaissance-inspired folk music with his band Blackmore’s Night. The group, which he formed with his wife, Candice Night, has carved out a niche audience and continues to release music that blends traditional and contemporary elements.
For Blackmore, this transition was a natural progression. “I’ve always followed my heart when it comes to music,” he said. “I don’t care about trends or what’s popular. I just play what I love.”
This philosophy underscores his broader critique of the modern music industry: the belief that true artistry comes from passion, not commercialism.
The Future of Music
While Blackmore’s comments may come across as harsh, they also reflect a deep love for music and a desire to see it flourish. His critique is not just about pointing out what’s wrong but also about inspiring change.
“There’s still great music being made,” he said. “You just have to dig a little deeper to find it. My hope is that more people will start valuing musicianship again and supporting artists who are doing something different.”
Blackmore’s words serve as a reminder that music, at its core, is about connection and expression. Whether through a thunderous rock riff or a delicate acoustic melody, the power of music lies in its ability to move and inspire.
Conclusion
Ritchie Blackmore’s candid critique of modern music has reignited a timeless debate: what defines good music, and how can we preserve the artistry and creativity that make it so special? While his words may ruffle feathers, they also serve as a call to action for musicians, fans, and industry leaders to prioritize substance over style and passion over profit.
For Blackmore, the answer lies in returning to the basics—picking up an instrument, honing your craft, and creating music that comes from the heart. In an age dominated by digital production and fleeting trends, his perspective is a refreshing reminder of the enduring power of true musicianship.
As fans continue to debate his comments, one thing is certain: Ritchie Blackmore remains as unapologetically outspoken as ever, championing the values that have made him a legend in the world of rock music. And in doing so, he challenges us all to demand more from the music we listen to—and from ourselves.
