Deep Purple are genuine monsters of rock. They helped shape the genre with their classic riffs; released back in 1972 'Smoke on the Water' is one of rock's defining moments. However the Purps are almost as famous for their revolving door policy when it comes to band mates (and in particular vocalists) as they are as the forefathers of heavy rock and metal.

Following on from Rod Evans and Ian Gillan, bassist Glenn Hughes joined the band in 1973 sharing lead vocals with David Coverdale (who would go on to form Whitesnake) across three albums until the band broke up in 1976 (although it's worth noting that DP reformed in 1984). After Hughes left, he released a solo album, collaborated with guitarist Pat Travers, joined Black Sabbath for several years in the 80s, provided guest vocals for KLF and formed super group Black Country Communion with Jason Bonham (drums), Joe Bonamassa (guitar) and Derek Sherinian (keyboards).

Now Hughes is returning to the rock of Deep Purple for a very special UK tour.

On this tour you are revisiting your Deep Purple past. Tell us more about how the idea came together.
In early 2017, I was asked by many promoters across the world if I would be interested in doing an evening with Glenn Hughes performing classic Deep Purple live. After a few months of debating this, I went to Australia and New Zealand as a trial-run. It was a success, I loved it, I was dedicated to performing these great songs. So now, here I am on this worldwide tour and I am very happy.

You are touring all over the world at the moment. Are you looking forward to bringing the tour to the UK?
As I am from the United Kingdom but have been living in America for so long returning home for me, to where I was born, and to play the marketplace that gave me my life, I'm very, very grateful to be coming to Ireland, Scotland, Wales and England. So here we go, it's going to be a great, great time. I can't wait to bring it to you and give the love back you have freely given to me.

Can you give us a preview of what people can expect to hear during the show?
Primarily it's the albums Burn, Come Taste The Band and Stormbringer. These albums are so important to classic rock fans and for MK III and MK IV Deep Purple fans.

What was it like being inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame as part of Deep Purple?
My induction with Deep Purple in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in April 2016 was a monumental occasion. I'm truly grateful to be given the gift of music, to be a songwriter and performer. Thank you to all the fans, the Hall of Fame for this amazing honour.

What are the best and worst parts of touring?
My favourite part of touring is the time I spend on stage with my band giving the love back to my fans. The most difficult part of touring is the time zones I am travelling where I may lose a little sleep.

What are your plans after this current tour?
To be honest with you, all I can think about is the touring of this particular cycle. It will be around two years long, after then not sure what I'll do. What I won't do is sit back and relax. I'll take a short period of break and then I'll be onto the next thing, whatever it is and I will embrace it and I will give it love.

This tour has been postponed due to illness. More info here.