Celebrating Ian Gillan’s Birthday: My Top 15 Tracks
One of my all-time favorite vocalists, Ian Gillan. Whether it’s with Deep Purple, his solo work, or one of the other bands he’s been part of, Ian has been a significant figure in my musical journey. To mark the occasion, I’ve put together a playlist of my top 15 Ian Gillan tracks—a mix of his greatest performances, some personal favorites, and a few that are resonating with me right now.
I invite you to join me in celebrating by playing these tracks or sharing your own favorites in the comments. Here’s my list:
15. Zero the Hero – Black Sabbath (Born Again, 1983)
Starting off the list is “Zero the Hero” from Black Sabbath’s Born Again. This track features one of Gillan’s grittiest performances, perfectly complementing the heavy riffs of Tony Iommi. Born Again may be an album that divides fans, but this track showcases Ian’s ability to blend his vocal style with Sabbath’s doom-laden sound.
14. Dancing in My Sleep – Deep Purple (Whoosh!, 2020)
From Deep Purple’s recent album Whoosh!, “Dancing in My Sleep” highlights Gillan’s evolution as a vocalist. This track has a fresh and different vibe, and it’s one I’ve found myself returning to often since the album’s release.
13. One Eye to Morocco – Ian Gillan (One Eye to Morocco, 2009)
A track from Ian’s solo album One Eye to Morocco, this song captures a more reflective side of Gillan. Released in 2009, the album shows Ian adjusting his vocal style with age while still delivering powerful and emotive performances.
12. No More Cane on the Brazos – Ian Gillan (Naked Thunder, 1990)
From the solo album Naked Thunder, “No More Cane on the Brazos” is a bluesy track that demonstrates Gillan’s versatility. I first heard this on the Friday Rock Show with Tommy Vance, and it was a reminder of how Gillan could still surprise and innovate even after his years with Deep Purple.
11. Roller – Gillan (The Japanese Album, 1978)
“Roller” from The Japanese Album (also known as the Gillan album) features a different lineup with Steve Byrd on guitar. This version has a distinct feel compared to the one on Mr. Universe, with a raw and urgent energy that makes it stand out.
10. Let It Slide – Ian Gillan Band (Child in Time, 1976)
From the Ian Gillan Band’s Child in Time album, “Let It Slide” is a lesser-known gem. It showcases Gillan’s ability to blend his signature scream with a more subdued, jazzy arrangement, making it a standout track on the album.
9. Sometimes I Feel Like Screaming – Deep Purple (Purpendicular, 1996)
One of the best tracks from the Steve Morse era of Deep Purple, “Sometimes I Feel Like Screaming” features a beautiful melody and one of Gillan’s most heartfelt vocal performances. It’s a song that has rightfully become a fan favorite.
8. Our Lady – Deep Purple (Who Do We Think We Are, 1973)
“Our Lady” from Who Do We Think We Are is a track that often gets overlooked, but it’s a personal favorite. There are no solos, just Gillan’s voice carrying the melody with a warmth and sincerity that makes this song special.
7. Five Moons – Ian Gillan Band (Clear Air Turbulence, 1977)
From the Clear Air Turbulence album, “Five Moons” is a ballad that showcases Gillan’s softer side. The instrumentation is sublime, and Ian’s vocals are beautifully restrained, making this a standout track from his jazz-rock period.
6. Fools – Deep Purple (Fireball, 1971)
“Fools” is a deep cut from Fireball that features one of Gillan’s most dynamic vocal performances. The way the song builds from a quiet intro to an explosive climax, with Gillan’s vocals leading the charge, is pure magic.
5. Strange Kind of Woman – Deep Purple (Made in Japan, 1972)
“Strange Kind of Woman” from Made in Japan is a live performance that captures the essence of Ian Gillan’s vocal prowess. The call-and-response section between Gillan and Ritchie Blackmore is legendary, and it remains one of the highlights of any Deep Purple concert.
4. Child in Time – Deep Purple (In Rock, 1970)
“Child in Time” is one of Ian Gillan’s signature songs, and the version on In Rock is the definitive studio take. His control and range on this track are simply breathtaking, and it’s no surprise that this performance played a part in securing his role in Jesus Christ Superstar.
3. When a Blind Man Cries – Deep Purple (B-side to “Never Before”, 1972)
Originally the B-side to “Never Before”, “When a Blind Man Cries” has since become a staple of Deep Purple’s live shows. It’s a poignant and emotional track, with Gillan delivering one of his most heartfelt performances.
2. On the Rocks – Gillan (Glory Road, 1980)
From the Glory Road album, “On the Rocks” is a six-minute showcase of Gillan’s ability to command a rock anthem. The Gillan band was firing on all cylinders during this period, and this track is a testament to their raw power and Gillan’s vocal might.
1. Fighting Man – Gillan (Mr. Universe, 1979)
Topping my list is “Fighting Man” from Mr. Universe. This track is seven minutes of pure vocal mastery, and it’s the song that set the stage for the resurgence of Ian Gillan’s career. It’s a powerful, epic track that I’ll be playing on repeat today to honor one of the greatest rock vocalists of all time.
Happy Birthday, Ian Gillan! Thank you for all the incredible music, the memories, and the inspiration. These 15 tracks are just a small selection of the many great performances you’ve given us over the years. For all the fans out there, I hope you enjoy this playlist and maybe even discover a new favorite.
Phil Aston | Now Spinning Magazine
Nice list, but surely ‘Born to Kill’ ?
Good call! That is a great track – Phil