Ritchie Blackmore’s wife and musical partner, Candice Night, has revealed that the legendary guitarist is dealing with three major health issues at age 79. The first is a heart problem: a heart attack about a year and a half ago led to six stents being placed, and doctors have advised him not to fly. He is also suffering from gout, which limits mobility in his feet and fingers, and chronic arthritis reduces his agility further.
The second issue, gout, has made standing and playing guitar particularly difficult. Candice noted that he recently received an injection to alleviate pain in one finger, slowing his ability to perform. The third condition is an ongoing back problem that has persisted for years. His medical team advised against further injections for now to protect his heart, necessitating a slower pace professionally.
Together, these issues make long-distance travel and traditional touring schedules almost impossible. Candice explained that airport procedures, waiting, and jet lag all contribute to heart strain and worsen his spinal condition. Thus, driving locally and short-distance shows are preferred over air travel.
Despite these constraints, Ritchie continues to participate cautiously in his wife’s music project, and they are discussing the possibility of Blackmore’s Night shows in the fall—provided logistics and his condition permit. Such performances would be local, allowing adequate rest between dates instead of multi-show tours.
Although Candice acknowledges that his health has significantly changed, she highlights Blackmore’s continued creativity and daily activity. He remains engaged with music and family life, prioritizing a balance between preserving his legacy and protecting his well-being. While the pace may have slowed, his passion endures.
