Steve Morse Says Some Staff Were Happy When He Left Deep Purple

Former Deep Purple guitarist Steve Morse (Instagram @theofficialstevemorse)

JAKARTA - Steve Morse finally spoke up about the dynamics that occurred in Deep Purple after his departure in July 2022.

In a recent interview with Guitar Interactive magazine, the guitarist who has dedicated 28 years of his career to the legendary band revealed a fact about his bandmates' feelings when he decided to leave.

Morse claimed that his departure was actually welcomed by several Deep Purple personnel. According to him, there is a fairly sharp difference in musical vision between the style of writing his songs which is considered complicated with the band's desire to return to the roots of simpler rock music.

"I think if the band feels differently, I'll feel differently. However, I think there are some guys in the band who are really happy that I'm gone, because they kind of go back to their roots and just want to be a rock band, and 'don't give me that fancy shit.' And when you look at me as a writer, I'm definitely giving you that fancy shit. I can't help it," Morse said.

Morse's departure from Deep Purple was initially triggered by another reason. He chose to step down in order to care for his wife, Janine, who was battling stage four cancer.

Morse's position was then permanently replaced by Simon McBride. Although he had hoped to complete one last album project, Morse now feels that the current situation is the best for both parties. He admits that his musical style is now finding a better home in projects such as Flying Colors and Steve Morse Band.

Apart from the musicality factor, differences in views on the intensity of the tour also became a thorn in their relationship. Morse admitted that he often complained to the management about the tour schedule that was too long - something that the other members did not like.

"I think the band is happier with the way things are now, and it would be a kind of step backwards for them if they wanted to do something like that (invite me back). Anyway, they are happier and better. And I think I am too," he added.

Steve Morse joined Deep Purple in 1994 to replace Ritchie Blackmore. For almost three decades, he has contributed to eight studio albums, including his latest album, "Turning to Crime" in 2021.

Although aware of the relief from some of his old colleagues, Morse still gave high respect to the band he had raised. He emphasized that Deep Purple is now where they want to be and will continue to produce great rock music for fans across generations.