Ian Gillan Ian Gillan Ian Gillan (born 19 August 1945) is an English singer and songwriter. He is the lead singer and lyricist for the rock band Deep Purple. Initially influenced by Elvis Presley, Gillan started and fronted several local bands in the mid-1960s, and eventually joined Episode Six when their original singer left. He first found widespread commercial success after joining Deep Purple in 1969. He resigned from the band in June 1973, having given a lengthy notice period to their managers. After a short time away from the music business, he resumed his music career with solo bands the Ian
Gary James Cregan & Co and London blues-rock act Bad Influence. He has performed live on stage with The Ian Gillan Band, Graham Bonnet, Don Airey, Mick Ralphs, Paul Young and made a guest appearance playing drums for UK the prog rock band Breathing Space. In the studio, as well as his extensive back catalogue with Thunder and Magnum, Harry has contributed to work by Don Airey, Russ Ballard, Shadowman (featuring FM's vocalist Steve Overland, Heartland's Steve Morris and Thunder's Chris Childs), Kate Aumonier, Carl Sentance, Bucket & Co and Hellfire Corner. Harry is backed by Pearl, Paiste, Pro-Mark and Protection Racket.