Jon Lord

Jon Lord, co-founder and keyboard player of Deep Purple, had a diverse musical career that spanned from classical piano to rock and roll. Born in Leicester, England in 1941, Lord's early influences included classical and jazz music, leading him to play with various bands before forming Deep Purple in the late 1960s. With Deep Purple, Lord became known for his heavy keyboard style centered around the Hammond organ, contributing to the band's international success in the early '70s.

In addition to his tenure with Deep Purple, Jon Lord pursued solo projects, collaborated with other bands like Whitesnake, and delved into classical music, composing works like the "Concerto for Group and Orchestra." Lord's musical journey continued through the 1980s and 1990s with Deep Purple, alongside solo projects and soundtrack work, showcasing his versatility across genres. His legacy as a pioneering keyboardist and composer endured in the music world, culminating with his classical compositions and continued performances until his passing in 2012 at the age of 71.