Ritchie Blackmore has cancelled two consecutive performances for his band Blackmore’s Night, citing medical reasons in official announcements shared on Facebook.
The legendary guitarist announced the cancellations through his social media account without disclosing specific details about the medical situation.
“Tonight’s show in Newton, NJ postponed due to medical reasons,” Blackmore stated in the first announcement.
A second statement followed, addressing the Delaware date: “Unfortunately, the Delaware Blackmore’s Night show will be postponed due to medical reasons. We are sorry for any inconvenience.”
The back-to-back postponements represent an unusual occurrence for the veteran performer. No timeline for rescheduled dates has been provided at this time. Further updates may follow as more information becomes available.
These cancellations come as Blackmore continues to manage significant health challenges that have increasingly impacted his touring schedule. The 80-year-old musician has been dealing with multiple serious medical conditions that require careful management. These conditions have forced him to make difficult decisions about his performance commitments.
Blackmore suffered a heart attack in 2023 that required the implantation of six stents, as reported by American Songwriter. This serious cardiac event has fundamentally changed how he approaches touring and physical exertion. His medical team has advised him to avoid air travel due to the strain it places on his heart. This guidance has significantly limited his touring options and forced the band to carefully select which shows can proceed.
Beyond his heart condition, Blackmore contends with gout that severely affects his feet and finger mobility. He also experiences chronic back pain. AXS noted that these combined health challenges make it increasingly difficult for the guitarist to maintain a regular touring schedule. The physical demands of performing—standing for extended periods, the repetitive motion of playing guitar, and the stress of travel—have become increasingly challenging given his medical situation.
Blabbermouth reported that Blackmore’s wife Candice Night has been actively involved in managing the band’s schedule around his health needs. The couple has been working to balance Blackmore’s desire to continue performing with the medical realities of his condition. They make decisions on a show-by-show basis depending on how he is feeling.
Despite these health obstacles, Blackmore remains committed to his music and his fans. The postponements, while disappointing, reflect the difficult reality that even legendary performers must sometimes prioritize their health and well-being over their professional commitments. Fans are encouraged to monitor official Blackmore’s Night channels for updates on rescheduled dates and any future tour announcements.
