Ritchie Blackmore Calls Paul McCartney the “Greatest Composer of the Last Century”

Few names in rock history carry as much weight as Ritchie Blackmore, the legendary guitarist behind Deep Purple and Rainbow. Known for his pioneering role in shaping hard rock and heavy metal, Blackmore has never been shy about sharing his admiration for fellow musicians. While he often praised guitar heroes like Jimi Hendrix and singer-songwriters such as Bob Dylan, he has reserved his highest praise for none other than Paul McCartney of The Beatles.

Speaking in various interviews over the years, Blackmore has consistently described The Beatles as the most important band of all time, noting how their influence stretched far beyond the 1960s. In particular, he singled out Paul McCartney as a once-in-a-lifetime talent, famously telling Metal Hammer magazine in 1987 that McCartney was “the best composer we’ve had in the past hundred years.”

Defending Paul McCartney Against Critics

During the 1980s, McCartney was often criticized in the press, with tabloids mocking his wealth, personal life, and even his appearance. Blackmore, however, strongly defended the former Beatle.

“I was reading the Melody Maker the other day and there was this stuff about Paul McCartney,” Blackmore recalled. “They were crucifying him; the best composer we’ve had in the past hundred years. They were saying he had too much money and was overweight with this horrible wife. I can imagine them saying the same thing about Beethoven in his day.”

Blackmore’s defense showed the level of admiration he held for McCartney, comparing him to the greatest classical composers of all time. To Blackmore, McCartney was not just a pop songwriter but a true musical genius whose work would stand the test of time.

Deep Purple and The Beatles Connection

The Beatles’ influence on Deep Purple was clear from the start. On their 1968 debut album, Shades of Deep Purple, the band recorded a bold reinterpretation of the Beatles’ 1965 hit Help!—transforming it into a psychedelic rock track with extended instrumental passages. This reinterpretation demonstrated how The Beatles inspired musicians across genres, including those pushing rock into heavier territory.

But Blackmore’s connection to The Beatles didn’t stop there. In 1984, when the classic Deep Purple lineup reunited for shows in Australia, they were joined on stage by none other than George Harrison. Together, they performed Little Richard’s rock ‘n’ roll classic Lucille. The collaboration highlighted the camaraderie and mutual respect between two of the greatest forces in rock history.

Paul McCartney’s Timeless Influence

Ritchie Blackmore’s recognition of McCartney as the century’s greatest composer adds to the long list of musicians who acknowledge the former Beatle’s legacy. From Yesterday and Eleanor Rigby to Hey Jude and beyond, McCartney’s songwriting continues to shape modern music. Even as trends shift, his melodies, harmonies, and lyrical storytelling remain unmatched.

For Blackmore—who spent decades redefining the electric guitar in both Deep Purple and Rainbow—McCartney’s work represents not just popular success, but a standard of creativity and innovation that future generations will continue to look up to.