Ian Paice: Age, Date of Birth & other info
Ian Paice is a name synonymous with rock drumming. As the backbone of the legendary band Deep Purple, his powerful yet intricate drumming style has captivated audiences for over five decades. He is not only the last remaining original member of the band but also one of the most influential drummers in rock history.
- Age: 76 Years
- Date of Birth: June 29, 1948
- Birth Place: Nottingham, England
- Height: 5 feet 8 inches (173 cm)
- Net Worth: $40 million
Age and Date of Birth
Ian Paice was born on June 29, 1948, in Nottingham, England. As of 2025, he is 76 years old. Despite his advancing age, he continues to perform live, proving his passion and dedication to music.
Early Life and Musical Beginnings
Ian Paice’s journey into the world of music started at an early age. His father was a pianist, which exposed him to music from a young age. Initially, Paice was fascinated by the violin, but he soon switched to drums when he was about 15 years old.
He started playing on a small drum kit and was influenced by several jazz and rock drummers, including:
- Gene Krupa – Known for his explosive and energetic drumming.
- Buddy Rich – One of the greatest drummers of all time, known for his speed and precision.
- Bobby Elliott – Drummer of The Hollies, who inspired Paice with his rock drumming.
- Ringo Starr – The Beatles’ drummer, whose simple but effective drumming influenced many musicians.
- Charles Connor – Known for his work with Little Richard and his fast-paced drumming style.
These influences helped shape Paice’s distinctive drumming style, which combines the technical prowess of jazz with the power and aggression of rock.
The Formation and Success of Deep Purple
In 1968, Ian Paice became a founding member of Deep Purple, along with Jon Lord (keyboards), Ritchie Blackmore (guitar), Rod Evans (vocals), and Nick Simper (bass). The band was initially formed as a progressive rock group but soon evolved into one of the pioneers of hard rock and heavy metal.Deep Purple’s classic lineup emerged in 1969 with Ian Gillan (vocals) and Roger Glover (bass) replacing Evans and Simper. This lineup, often called Mark II, created some of the most iconic albums in rock history, including:
- “Deep Purple in Rock” (1970) – Marked the band’s shift towards a heavier sound.
- “Fireball” (1971) – Featured intricate drumming patterns by Paice.
- “Machine Head” (1972) – Included the legendary track “Smoke on the Water”, which became one of rock’s most famous songs.
- “Made in Japan” (1972) – A live album that showcased Paice’s drumming brilliance.
Paice played a crucial role in the band’s success, with his fast-paced drum solos and rhythmic precision setting the foundation for Deep Purple’s sound. His ability to blend jazz techniques with hard rock drumming made him a standout performer.
Collaborations and Side Projects
While Deep Purple has been Ian Paice’s main focus, he has also collaborated with various musicians and bands over the years. Some of his notable side projects include:
Paice Ashton Lord (1976-1977)
After Deep Purple temporarily disbanded in 1976, Paice formed the short-lived band Paice Ashton Lord, alongside:
- Jon Lord (Deep Purple’s keyboardist)
- Tony Ashton (vocalist and keyboardist)
Although the band released only one album, Malice in Wonderland, it showcased Paice’s ability to experiment with different musical styles, including jazz, funk, and blues.
Whitesnake (1979-1982)
Paice joined Whitesnake, a band founded by David Coverdale (former Deep Purple vocalist). During his time with the band, they released several successful albums, such as:
- “Lovehunter” (1979)
- “Ready an’ Willing” (1980)
- “Come an’ Get It” (1981)
His drumming contributed significantly to the bluesy hard rock sound of Whitesnake.
Collaborations with Gary Moore
Paice worked with legendary guitarist Gary Moore on multiple albums, including:
- “Corridors of Power” (1982)
- “Victims of the Future” (1983)
His drumming added a solid rhythmic backbone to Moore’s powerful guitar work.
Other Collaborations
Paice has also played with other rock legends, including:
- Paul McCartney
- George Harrison
- The Velvet Underground
His ability to adapt to different musical styles made him a sought-after session drummer.
Personal Life and Family
Ian Paice is married to Jacky Paice, and they have three children:
- James Paice
- Emmy Paice
- Calli Paice
Interestingly, Jacky is the twin sister of Vicky Lord, the wife of the late Jon Lord (Deep Purple’s legendary keyboardist). This connection further solidifies the close-knit relationships within the Deep Purple family.Despite his busy career, Paice has maintained a stable family life. He has always emphasized the importance of balancing music and personal life.
Health Issues
In 2016, Ian Paice suffered a mini-stroke (transient ischemic attack), which temporarily affected his ability to play drums. However, with proper medical care and rehabilitation, he recovered and returned to performing. He remains active in the music industry, continuing to tour with Deep Purple.
Ian Paice’s Net Worth
Ian Paice has built a successful career spanning over five decades. His net worth is estimated to be around $40 million, according to sources such as Idol Net Worth.
Sources of Income
His wealth comes from multiple sources, including:
- Album Sales – Deep Purple has sold over 100 million albums worldwide.
- Live Performances – Deep Purple continues to tour globally, generating millions in revenue.
- Merchandising – Band merchandise and memorabilia contribute to his earnings.
- Session Work & Collaborations – His drumming skills have made him a sought-after session musician.
Despite being one of the most influential drummers in rock history, Paice has remained humble and focused on his passion for music rather than wealth.
Legacy and Influence
Ian Paice is widely regarded as one of the greatest drummers in rock history. His innovative techniques, speed, and precision have inspired countless drummers, including:
- Lars Ulrich (Metallica)
- Dave Lombardo (Slayer)
- Joey Jordison (Slipknot)
Awards and Recognitions
- Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Induction (2016) – As a member of Deep Purple.
- Classic Rock Awards – Outstanding Contribution to Music (2007)
His legacy continues to grow, with younger generations of drummers studying his techniques and performances.
Conclusion
Ian Paice’s career is a testament to his incredible talent, resilience, and passion for music. As the last original member of Deep Purple, he has played a vital role in shaping the sound of hard rock and heavy metal.From his early jazz influences to his groundbreaking work with Deep Purple and collaborations with rock legends, Paice’s drumming continues to inspire musicians worldwide. Despite health challenges, he remains active and dedicated to his craft, proving that true legends never fade.His net worth of $40 million, his impact on rock music, and his continued contributions to the industry make Ian Paice a living legend. His legacy will undoubtedly live on for generations to come.
