ROCK LEGEND IAN PAICE CELEBRATES HIS 77TH BIRTHDAY WITH A BRAND NEW MUSICAL PROJECT: “PAICE MODE” SET TO BRING THE FIRE BACK TO CLASSIC ROCK IN 2025
In a move that has electrified the rock world, Deep Purple’s legendary drummer Ian Paice celebrated his 77th birthday by announcing the formation of a bold new musical project, aptly titled “Paice Mode.” The news was revealed during a celebratory livestream event hosted on his birthday, June 29, surrounded by fans, friends, and fellow musicians.
Best known as the last remaining founding member of Deep Purple still performing with the group, Paice is now carving out a new chapter—one that pays homage to his hard rock legacy while embracing new ideas, new collaborators, and a fresh sound destined to inspire a new generation.
A BIRTHDAY GIFT TO FANS: THE BIRTH OF “PAICE MODE”
During the livestream from his home in the UK, Paice, looking relaxed and radiant, said:
“Turning 77 isn’t about slowing down. It’s about finding new ways to do what I love. I’ve spent my life behind the kit, but there’s still so much left to say. ‘Paice Mode’ is that voice.”
The project is described as a fusion of classic hard rock, progressive elements, and blues-based grooves, infused with modern textures. Paice revealed that the group is currently recording its debut album, slated for an early 2026 release, with a teaser single expected by November 2025.
THE LINEUP: A MIX OF LEGENDS AND FRESH BLOOD
“Paice Mode” boasts a killer lineup of musicians from across the rock and metal landscape, bringing together experience, passion, and raw firepower. Confirmed members include:
- Ian Paice (drums, co-producer)
- Richie Kotzen (lead vocals, guitar – The Winery Dogs, ex-Mr. Big, Poison)
- Derek Sherinian (keyboards – Dream Theater, Sons of Apollo, Alice Cooper)
- Nick Fyffe (bass – Jamiroquai, Deep Purple touring bassist)
- Laura Cox (guitar – French blues-rock phenom)
Paice described the band as “a family of firestarters” and “exactly the kind of team you want when you want to raise hell in the studio.”
NEW MUSIC, OLD SOUL
Though specific track names remain under wraps, Paice shared that the upcoming album channels the spirit of Deep Purple’s “Burn” and “Perfect Strangers” era, with modern edge and lyrical depth.
“We’re not trying to relive the past. We’re pushing the roots forward. Think of it as Purple with a fresh coat of lightning.”
The first track, rumored to be called “Forever Machine”, is said to be a seven-minute prog-rock epic with dueling solos and thunderous fills—showcasing Paice’s signature swing, finesse, and power.
LIVE PLANS IN THE WORKS
In addition to the album, “Paice Mode” has tentative plans for a 2026 mini-tour, including appearances at Sweden Rock Festival, Hellfest in France, and a special UK anniversary show at the Royal Albert Hall to mark Paice’s career spanning more than six decades.
“I want to feel the crowd one more time with something new,” he said. “Not just nostalgia—something that punches forward.”
The band is also in discussions with classic rock media for a behind-the-scenes documentary chronicling the making of the album and Ian’s creative rebirth.
THE BIRTHDAY CELEBRATION
Ian Paice’s 77th birthday bash was nothing short of a rock ‘n’ roll family affair. Video tributes poured in from Deep Purple bandmates Roger Glover, Ian Gillan, and Don Airey, as well as from rock royalty like Brian May, Joe Satriani, Steve Vai, Lars Ulrich, and Chad Smith of the Red Hot Chili Peppers.
Gillan, in his message, joked:
“Ian may be 77, but his snare hits harder than a 27-year-old’s right hook!”
The evening concluded with Paice jamming on a surprise live stream session with his grandson—who plays guitar—performing a gritty version of “Smoke on the Water”, sending fans into a frenzy online.
LEGACY STILL IN MOTION
Ian Paice’s impact on rock drumming is unmatched. From pioneering double bass techniques in Deep Purple’s 70s heyday to maintaining technical precision with jazz-inflected flair, Paice has remained both a craftsman and a trailblazer.
This new project marks an evolution—not a goodbye.
“I’ve played with the best. I’ve been part of something eternal. Now, I get to make something new that still rocks to the bone. What more could I ask for at 77?”
FINAL WORD
With “Paice Mode,” Ian Paice isn’t just celebrating his birthday—he’s celebrating the unrelenting spirit of rock, creativity, and resilience. As he turns 77, he reminds the world that passion never ages, drums never lie, and true legends keep marching to the beat of their own rhythm.
The thunder rolls on. Stay tuned.
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