Deep Purple Vocalist Ian Gillan Admits Loss Of Vision, Pension Signal Getting Closer?

JAKARTA - Shocking news came from the vocalist of the legendary rock group Deep Purple, Ian Gillan, who revealed that he was losing his vision and hinted that his retirement was getting closer.

The announcement was made when the 80-year-old singer underwent the latest interview with Uncut. He expressed his doubts about how long he was still able to continue his musical career with Deep Purple.

"This is one of the realities of life. My vision is only 30 percent left," said Gillan.

"It's not going to get better. It makes life feel mysterious. The hardest thing is working on my laptop," he added. I can't see anything on the screen unless I use an edge vision (periphery)' I can catch a line by looking at it from the side. However, you will find a way. You adapt."

The British musician also continued his reflection about age. "The thing about being old is really funny. It's like laughing every minute. Sometimes yes, sometimes not. I walk on the road and hear something fall away. Actually nothing has changed much, other than I can no longer do pole jumps. Besides that, things are moving a little slower. But, nothing has changed."

When asked about speculation about his future in the music world, he added: "I think if I lose energy, I will quit. I don't want to be a burden to anyone. We're no longer far from that point. It creeps into you 'You're not really aware of it."

Deep Purple itself released their 23rd studio album, =1, last year, which includes songs such as Lazy Sod, Portable Door, and Pictures Of You.

Deep Purple itself is scheduled to share the stage with Slank in a performance in Jakarta on April 18, 2026.

Gillan's contemplation regarding the final phase of his career comes just days after David Coverdale, who replaced Gillan as Deep Purple's lead vocalist from 1973 to 1976, officially announced his retirement from the music world.