Deep Purple's Concert History: When Did They Tour Australia And Upcoming Dates? [Updated On 2024]

Deep Purple toured Australia many times. Their first concert was on May 6, 1971, in Perth. They performed two nights in Melbourne on November 29-30, 1984. They will return for four upcoming shows in April 2024 as part of the Pandemonium festival, engaging with fans at various venues across the country.

In 2017, Deep Purple celebrated their legacy with the “Long Goodbye” tour, which included several Australian dates. Fans flocked to their shows, eager to experience the legendary band’s electrifying performances. The band has consistently brought their classic hits and new material to fans around the world.

As of 2023, Deep Purple has announced upcoming tour dates in Australia for early 2024. They plan to perform in major cities like Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane. This tour provides another opportunity for fans to experience their vibrant live performances. The excitement surrounding these upcoming shows highlights Deep Purple’s lasting appeal and their significant connection with Australian audiences.

Table of Contents

When Did Deep Purple First Tour Australia and Who Were the Key Members During That Time?

Deep Purple first toured Australia in 1971. During that time, the key members of the band included Ian Gillan (vocals), Ritchie Blackmore (guitar), Roger Glover (bass), Jon Lord (organ), and Ian Paice (drums).

What Years Did Deep Purple Tour Australia, and What Notable Events Took Place in Those Years?

Deep Purple toured Australia in the following years: 1971, 1972, 1975, 1984, 1998, 2001, 2004, and 2017. Notable events during these tours included the band’s iconic performances, lineup changes, and the release of significant albums.

1971: Their first Australian tour; released “Fireball.”
1972: Promoted the “Machine Head” album; notable performances.
1975: Lineup changes with Tommy Bolin; mixed audience reactions.
1984: Reunion of classic lineup; marked a resurgence in popularity.
1998: Promoted “Abandon”; performed throughout Australia.
2001: Featured “Concerto for Group and Orchestra”; a unique symphonic performance.
2004: Celebrated classic hits and newer material; high energy shows.
2017: Toured with a new album, “inFinite”; showcased longevity and adaptability.

Having established the tour history and notable events, it’s essential to delve deeper into each point for a comprehensive understanding of Deep Purple’s impact in Australia.

1971:
Deep Purple’s first tour in Australia took place in 1971, coinciding with the release of their album “Fireball.” The band gained significant attention as they showcased their pioneering blend of rock and classical influences. Their concerts included performances at venues like the Sydney Town Hall, which offered audiences a chance to witness the band’s powerful live sound.
1972:
In 1972, Deep Purple returned to Australia to promote their landmark album “Machine Head.” This tour is remembered for concerts filled with hits like “Smoke on the Water.” Fans applauded their energetic performances.
1975:
The 1975 tour was notable for lineup changes, particularly due to the entry of guitarist Tommy Bolin. The change brought a new musical direction, but reactions from fans were mixed as they were accustomed to the previous lineup’s style. This tour reflected the band’s evolving identity.
1984:
Deep Purple reunited with their classic lineup for the 1984 tour. This marked a significant resurgence in their popularity. Fans cherished the nostalgia of hearing beloved songs performed by their original idols. The tour became a landmark moment that highlighted their enduring legacy in rock music.
1998:
The 1998 tour promoted the album “Abandon.” Deep Purple continued to attract a loyal audience in Australia. Their performances emphasized the band’s ability to adapt and evolve while maintaining their foundational sound.
2001:
In 2001, Deep Purple delivered a unique performance of “Concerto for Group and Orchestra.” This collaborative event showcased their musical versatility. It stood out as a memorable moment in the band’s history, blurring the lines between rock and classical genres.
2004:
The 2004 tour featured a setlist that included classic hits alongside newer tracks. Audiences appreciated the band’s high-energy shows. It highlighted their ability to resonate with both long-time fans and new generations.
2017:
In 2017, Deep Purple toured Australia again with their album “inFinite.” Their performances showcased their prowess and adaptability. This tour reaffirmed their status as a legendary band, capable of captivating audiences across decades.

Which Cities Did Deep Purple Visit During Their Tours in Australia?

Deep Purple visited several cities during their tours in Australia, including major metropolitan areas and regional centers.

Sydney
Melbourne
Brisbane
Adelaide
Perth
Hobart
Newcastle

These cities showcased a range of venues and audience sizes. The choice of cities may reflect Deep Purple’s popularity and the diverse music scene across Australia. While some fans argue that more regional cities should be included, others see the selection as strategic to maximize attendance.

Sydney:
Deep Purple performed in Sydney, one of Australia’s largest cities. The city is known for its vibrant music scene and iconic venues. In 2017, the band played at the Qudos Bank Arena, which has a capacity of over 20,000, highlighting their appeal to large audiences.
Melbourne:
Melbourne is another key city where Deep Purple toured. The city is famous for its live music culture and a strong fan base for rock music. They played at the Margaret Court Arena, which accommodates around 7,500 spectators, illustrating their ability to attract substantial crowds.
Brisbane:
Brisbane hosted Deep Purple at the Riverstage, an outdoor venue known for its intimate atmosphere. The location offers a more scenic experience, with a capacity of approximately 5,500. This venue choice showcases the band’s desire to connect closely with their audience.
Adelaide:
Adelaide is notable for hosting Deep Purple during their Australian tours. Concerts in this city often see a loyal following due to its relatively smaller population compared to Sydney and Melbourne. The Entertainment Centre serves as a central venue here, diversifying the fan experience.
Perth:
Deep Purple visited Perth, the capital of Western Australia. The city is known for its geographical remoteness, making concerts highly anticipated events. The RAC Arena, accommodating over 15,000 attendees, signifies the city’s importance in their tour circuit.
Hobart:
Hobart, though smaller, has seen performances by Deep Purple. The intimate environment of venues like the Derwent Entertainment Centre reflects their commitment to reaching fans in more isolated areas. Smaller audiences can create a unique concert atmosphere.
Newcastle:
Newcastle is an emerging location for big-name concerts. Deep Purple’s choice to perform here indicates their strategy to reach both urban and regional audiences. The local venues, such as the Newcastle Entertainment Centre, allow for a range of fan experiences.

In conclusion, Deep Purple’s selection of cities during their tours in Australia demonstrates a mix of strategic choices aimed at maximizing their audience while also fostering a connection with fans across diverse locations.

What Notable Venues Hosted Deep Purple’s Concerts in Australia?

Deep Purple has performed in various notable venues across Australia during their concert tours. Some of these prominent locations include:

Sydney Opera House, Sydney
Festival Hall, Melbourne
Brisbane Entertainment Centre, Brisbane
Adelaide Entertainment Centre, Adelaide
Perth Arena, Perth

These venues are recognized for their historical significance and capacity to host large audiences. Each venue has its unique attributes that may appeal to different audience perspectives.

Deep Purple’s Concert History includes remarkable performances at various venues across Australia.

Sydney Opera House: The Sydney Opera House is an iconic architectural masterpiece. It hosts a wide range of events, including concerts. Deep Purple’s performance here showcased their music in a culturally rich environment. The venue offers excellent acoustics and views, enhancing the concert experience.
Festival Hall, Melbourne: Festival Hall is a historic music venue in Melbourne. It has a reputation for hosting notable acts from various genres. Deep Purple’s concerts here were well-received, drawing large crowds. The venue embodies a nostalgic atmosphere, appealing to long-time fans.
Brisbane Entertainment Centre: The Brisbane Entertainment Centre is one of Australia’s largest indoor arenas. It is known for its modern facilities and ability to accommodate large audiences. Deep Purple’s performances here provided fans with thrilling live music experiences.
Adelaide Entertainment Centre: This venue in Adelaide is also designed for large-scale events. It features good sightlines and sound quality. Deep Purple’s concerts contributed to the local music scene, attracting fans from surrounding areas.
Perth Arena: Perth Arena offers a contemporary setting for live performances. Its advanced technology improves sound and lighting effects. Concerts by Deep Purple at this venue appealed to fans looking for a dynamic concert experience.

Each venue not only caters to the band’s musical style but also enriches the overall concert experience for the audience. The varying atmospheres of these locations highlight the diverse perspectives on what makes a concert memorable. These performances have helped solidify Deep Purple’s reputation in the Australian music scene.

How Did Deep Purple’s Musical Evolution Reflect in Their Australian Tours?

Deep Purple’s musical evolution is reflected in their Australian tours through their changing musical styles, evolving setlists, and the varying audience responses to their genre transitions.

Their musical styles evolved significantly over the decades, showcasing different influences. For example:
– Early years (1970s): Deep Purple’s initial sound featured classic rock and heavy metal elements. Their albums, like “In Rock” (1970), emphasized heavy guitar riffs and powerful vocals, capturing the Australian rock audience’s attention.
– Progressive rock phase (1972-1974): The band began experimenting with complex compositions and musical structures. Their album “Machine Head” (1972) introduced tracks like “Smoke on the Water,” which became iconic in Australia and worldwide.
– Transition to hard rock and heavy metal (late 1970s): As their style shifted, they embraced more heavy metal influences. This change was evident in the “Come Taste the Band” album (1975), which displayed a funkier sound blending hard rock with other genres.

The setlists varied across different tours, reflecting their developing artistry.
– 1970s tours: Setlists prominently featured tracks from “In Rock” and “Machine Head.” Fans expected high-energy performances with well-known hits.
– 1980s tours: The band’s repertoire began to include newer material from albums like “Perfect Strangers” (1984), which appealed to long-time fans and newer audiences alike.
– Recent tours: Modern setlists have incorporated a mix of classic hits alongside tracks from their later albums, such as “inFinite” (2017). This blend caters to both nostalgic fans and those seeking fresh music.

Audience reactions changed in response to their evolving styles.
– Initial popularity: Australian audiences embraced Deep Purple’s heavy rock sound, leading to sold-out shows and high merchandise sales.
– Transitional phases: Some fans were resistant to the band’s shift toward more experimental sounds, while others welcomed their musical exploration.
– Current response: Recent tours have seen strong attendance and enthusiasm, showcasing enduring fan loyalty across generations.

Overall, Deep Purple’s musical evolution, reflected in their Australian tours, highlights their adaptability and sustained influence, showcasing their ability to connect with audiences through different musical landscapes and eras.

What are Some Memorable Moments from Deep Purple’s Australian Concerts?

Deep Purple’s Australian concerts have featured several memorable moments throughout their history, showcasing their legendary musicianship and the unique energy of Australian audiences.

Iconic performances at major festivals
Collaborations with local artists
High-energy setlists
Surprise guest appearances
Emotional fan interactions
Notable venue highlights
Historical significance in rock music

The diversity of these moments reflects the band’s impact and engagement with different aspects of the Australian music scene.

Iconic Performances at Major Festivals: Deep Purple’s concerts at festivals such as the Sydney Opera House and the Big Day Out have become legendary. These events showcased their classic hits and unique sound, drawing enthusiastic crowds. Their live performance of “Smoke on the Water” at the 1999 Sydney show exemplified their ability to connect with audiences, becoming a highlight for many attendees.
Collaborations with Local Artists: Deep Purple has occasionally collaborated with Australian musicians during their concerts. For example, during their 2009 tour, they performed alongside local rock bands, enhancing the concert experience and supporting local talent. These collaborations not only enriched their performances but also fostered a sense of community in the music scene.
High-Energy Setlists: The setlists at Deep Purple’s Australian concerts often feature a mix of their greatest hits and newer material. Fans eagerly anticipate songs like “Highway Star” and “Hush,” performed with incredible energy. Surveys from fans frequently highlight the memorable nature of these songs, illustrating the band’s ability to keep their performances fresh and exciting.
Surprise Guest Appearances: Over the years, Deep Purple concerts in Australia have seen several surprise guest appearances. Artists like Joe Satriani have joined the band on stage, leading to unforgettable moments that fans cherish. Such surprise events add an element of excitement and unpredictability to their shows.
Emotional Fan Interactions: Deep Purple is known for their engagement with fans. During concerts, band members often take time to interact with the audience, sharing stories and expressing gratitude for their support. These interactions create a more personal experience for fans, leading to lasting memories of their time at the concert.
Notable Venue Highlights: Certain venues where Deep Purple has performed in Australia have become iconic in their own right. For example, their performance at the iconic Festival Hall in Melbourne drew thousands and is often remembered for its unique acoustics and vibrant atmosphere, contributing to the overall experience.
Historical Significance in Rock Music: Deep Purple’s concerts in Australia are not just performances; they are events that celebrate the band’s longstanding influence in rock music. As one of the pioneers of hard rock, their presence in Australia signifies their lasting legacy in the genre. Their concerts often become historical markers, reflecting the evolution of rock music over the decades.

These moments collectively highlight the enduring legacy and impact of Deep Purple in Australia, portraying a band that continues to resonate with fans across generations.

Which Songs Were Frequently Performed During Their Australian Tours?

Several songs were frequently performed during Deep Purple’s Australian tours.

“Smoke on the Water”
“Highway Star”
“Space Truckin’“
“Black Night”
“Burn”
“Child in Time”
“Perfect Strangers”

The selection of songs often reflects the band’s evolution and their audience’s preferences, making performances unique.

“Smoke on the Water”:
“Smoke on the Water” is a classic rock anthem that tells the story of a fire at a casino in Montreux, Switzerland. It remains one of Deep Purple’s signature songs. The song’s iconic riff resonates with audiences, making it a staple in their live performances. Deep Purple routinely performed it during their Australian tours.
“Highway Star”:
“Highway Star” showcases Deep Purple’s musicianship and features rapid tempo changes and intricate solos. The song is often associated with high-energy performances. Its popularity with fans ensures its regular inclusion in setlists across many tours, including Australia.
“Space Truckin’“:
“Space Truckin’” is known for its catchy rhythm and space-themed lyrics. It demonstrates the band’s heavy rock style and improvisational flair in live settings. The song’s extended jams provide audiences with memorable experiences during concerts.
“Black Night”:
“Black Night” serves as another beloved track that often appears in concert sets. The hard-hitting guitar riffs and memorable chorus energize crowds. Its frequent performance in Australia highlights its enduring popularity over the decades.
“Burn”:
“Burn” features powerful vocals and heavy instrumentation, solidifying its place in Deep Purple’s catalog. The song’s emotional depth and musical complexity engage fans, leading to its regular appearances during live shows.
“Child in Time”:
“Child in Time” is a poignant ballad that showcases Deep Purple’s more vulnerable side. Its thematic content and dynamic range captivate audiences. The song frequently evokes strong audience reactions, making it a favorite during tours.
“Perfect Strangers”:
“Perfect Strangers” combines classic rock elements with a contemporary feel. The song’s lyrical depth and strong melodies make it a solid choice for live performances. Its inclusion in the setlists reflects its significance in the band’s history.

Deep Purple’s choice of songs for their Australian tours demonstrates their enduring appeal and connection with fans. They skillfully blend classic hits with newer material to create memorable concert experiences.

When is Deep Purple Scheduled to Return to Australia, and What Are the Expected Dates and Locations?

Deep Purple is scheduled to return to Australia in 2024. The expected dates are from March 2 to March 12. The locations include major cities such as Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, and Perth.

How Can Fans Stay Updated on Deep Purple’s Tour Announcements and Events?

Fans can stay updated on Deep Purple’s tour announcements and events through official channels, social media, dedicated fan websites, and music news outlets.

To elaborate on these avenues of obtaining information:

Official website: Deep Purple maintains an official website where they post tour dates, ticket information, and news updates directly from the band. It is a primary source for accurate and timely information.
Social media: Deep Purple actively engages with fans on platforms like Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. These platforms allow the band to share updates, including concert announcements, behind-the-scenes content, and live interactions with fans.
Fan clubs and forums: Dedicated fan clubs and online forums serve as community spaces for fans to exchange information. Members often share news of upcoming events and tour dates. For example, websites like Deep Purple Fan Club provide structured updates and fan-driven content.
Music news outlets: Reputable music news websites cover band tours and events. Sources such as Rolling Stone, Billboard, and NME often publish articles detailing upcoming tours, album releases, and other related happenings.
Email newsletters: Fans can subscribe to the band’s email newsletter if available. This service provides personalized updates, ensuring fans receive the latest news directly in their inbox.

By utilizing these methods, fans can effectively stay informed about Deep Purple’s tour announcements and events.

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