THE LEGENDARY DEEP PURPLE ROCK THE PHLIVE IN LAS VEGAS

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Deep Purple performed at PH Live in Las Vegas on September 10, 2026, delivering a powerful performance that showcased why the legendary rock band remains one of the most influential groups in music history. The band has been together (albeit with changing members) for almost 60 years, and with a new album out this year have shown they are still rocking and rolling legends.

The current lineup features Roger Glover on bass (1969–1973, 1984–present), Ian Gillan on lead vocals, harmonica and percussion (1969–1973, 1984–1989, 1992–present), Don Airey on keyboards (2002–present), and Simon McBride on guitar and backing vocals (2022–present), and Ian Paice on Drums.

At the heart of Deep Purple is drummer Ian Paice, the only member of the band to have appeared on every Deep Purple album since the group's formation, and Ian Gillan also an original force, and the newer members add to the legendary sound and performance of the band.

The lengthy setlist featured many of Deep Purple's best-known songs, including "Smoke on the Water," "Highway Star," "Space Truckin'," "Hush," and "Perfect Strangers," along with singles "Arrogant Boy" and "Diablo" from new album SPLAT!, the bands 24th studio album that was released earlier this year. The record is the band's sixth collaboration with legendary producer Bob Ezrin and their second studio album with guitarist Simon McBride.

Replacing longtime guitarist Steve Morse, Simon McBride stepped comfortably into his role. His playing fit naturally within the band's classic sound while also bringing his own energy and style to the performance.

Keyboardist Don Airey also demonstrated his exceptional musicianship throughout the evening. Having joined Deep Purple in 2002, Airey has carried on the keyboard tradition established by the late Jon Lord, who passed away in 2012, while adding his own distinctive voice to the band's sound.

Deep Purple was inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 2016, cementing its place among the most important rock acts of all time. Earlier this year, they made history when they performed a song with legendary guitarist Ritchie Blackmore during their concert at Jones Beach in New York. The appearance marked an extraordinary reunion after decades of tension between Blackmore and the rest of the band and came more than 35 years after his departure from Deep Purple.

After more than five decades of music, Deep Purple proved in Las Vegas that the fire is still burning. Deep Purple's influence on rock music is undeniable. More on the band, the new album, and tour information HERE.

-- David Plastik

DEEP PURPLE photos courtesy David Plastik / vintagemusicimages.com