TV & DVD documentary

IAN GILLAN has a complete, constant and current devotion to rock and roll. It is his love of music that drives him on every day, powering his immense determination, energy and passion. It’s the music that keeps him young (the “Peter Pan of Rock”, as a certain Mr Jon Lord describes him). And it’s the music that keeps us spellbound.

This documentary tells a tale of riches and poverty, success and excess, feuds and fights. We’ve documented countless hilarious anecdotes, deep insights and some shocking revelations.

We’ve explored every facet of Ian’s 40-year musical odyssey, from the early days with pop hopefuls Episode 6, to Deep Purple’s last globe-spanning sell-out tour, and all points in between. There’s obviously plenty of focus on the ‘hungry daze’ of that most-loved Deep Purple line-up, but we also examine Ian’s landmark recording as the original ‘Jesus Christ Superstar’, the wild times that was the Gillan Band and the even wilder times of Black Sabbath.

And, of course, we investigate the truth behind the reunion, splits and recent renaissance of Deep Purple, as told by the people who were there.

For the first time ever, Ian talks openly about his relationship with Ritchie Blackmore, and explains the heartache behind his decision to quit the band just as they were set to rule the musical world.

We’ve done dozens of interviews with the people who were there during a career that’s been carved into the history of rock, along with some famous – and possibly surprising – fans. They include, amongst others, Tony Iommi of Black Sabbath; Roger Glover; Jon Lord; Ronnie James Dio; Luciano Pavarotti; soccer legend George Best; Joe Satriani; Sir Tim Rice; Joe Elliot of Def Leppard… the list goes on.

And to top it all, we’ve captured Deep Purple on stage at their most electrifying, led by a singer at the very top of his game. It’s hard to believe this man is going to be 60 this summer! He’s looking fantastic and his voice is as good as – no, better than – it’s ever been.

And that’s not even mentioning the fascinating and never previously released archive footage we’ve uncovered; the intimate and often hilarious backstage moments we’ve captured; Ian’s own footage of Deep Purple around the world…

It’s still very much a work in progress. There’s plenty of filming to do and some rather special interviewees are still waiting in the wings.

We’ll be keeping you updated every few weeks on how this project and the album, Gillan’s Inn, are developing, so don’t forget to sign up to the mailing list. Members will also be first in line when the special edition DVD is released later in the year, and there will be plenty more surprises in store, so sign up now.

Craig Hooper
CoolHead Productions Ltd