Deep Purple drummer Ian Paice has revealed that a series of “mini-strokes” he experienced were responsible for the band’s concert cancellations in Sweden and Denmark this week.
The band cancelled scheduled performances at Gröna Lund in Stockholm on June 14, Liseberg in Gothenburg on June 15 and The Prison – Open Air at Horsens, Denmark on June 17.
While the venues announced the shows were off due to “health issues”, Deep Purple had not issued a public statement until Paice posted a message on the group’s website offering an explanation in an effort to inform fans and reduce speculation over the situation.
“To all the people who were expecting to see Deep Purple in Sweden and Denmark this week, I would like to let you know the reason the shows were not possible,and also to stop all the speculation and rumours,” began Paice. “On the morning of the 14th of June, I woke up to find that the right side of my body was feeling numb and I could not control my right hand and fingers. So I had myself admitted to hospital where I was diagnosed with having suffered a ‘mini stroke’, or TIA (Transient Ischemic Attack).”
“The hospital staff in Stockholm were amazing and started my treatment straight away,” he continued. “After both CT and MIR scans there was found to be no serious or permanent damage. As of this moment all I am suffering is a slightly numb right side of the face a tingling sensation in my right hand.
"My dexterity in the hand is coming back quickly and I fully expect to re commence touring next month. So now I have a set of tablets which have to be taken every day to ensure it doesn¹t happen again!.”
“So sorry for not being able to play for you,” Paice added. “And I’m sorry for myself! These are the first shows I have missed with DP since its formation in 1968. Thanks to all the people who have shown concern and sent their best wishes.”
The group are scheduled to perform next in Antalya, Turkey on July 5.
Deep Purple recently completed recording the follow-up to 2013’s "Now What?!" with producer Bob Ezrin in Nashville, TN.
No further details regarding the project or a possible release schedule have been announced to date.
See also:
Deep Purple cancel Swedish dates due to illness
Deep Purple update new album status
Former Deep Purple singer responds to Ritchie Blackmore’s Rock Hall induction comments
Ritchie Blackmore comments on Deep Purple Rock Hall induction
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