I first encountered Glenn Hughes when he was playing with Trapeze, at Sunderland Polytechnic Wearmouth Hall in the early 70s. The next time was in 1974 when Deep Purple returned with a new singer and bass player. This was the Burn tour and Newcastle Odeon was sold out. But everyone was wondering what the new line – up would be like, particularly with David Coverdale replacing Ian Gillan. We need not have worried. As soon as Purple took to the stage it was obvious that they were incredibly hot, loud and ready to prove just what a major rock force they were. Songs like “Mistreated” and “Burn” itself were incendiary. Coverdale was a magnificent front man with a soaring, great rock voice. And to his right, stood Glenn Hughes adding equally strong soulful vocals and excellent bass. Blackmore was on top form as were Jon Lord and Ian Paice.
The next time I witnessed Glenn Hughes was when he performed as part of the Jon Lord Memorial concert at the Royal Albert Hall. Again, he was a human dynamo, commanding the stage with magnificent, searing, soulful vocals. And again, he was a human powerhouse. He deserves the title “The Voice of Rock” which is often quoted about him.
I have been remiss in missing out on the last few times that Glenn played in Newcastle. This time the tour was promoted as a celebration of classic Deep Purple and the album Burn, so I could not resist attending. And I am so glad that I did. Jackie and I arrived in time to catch the last few songs of the support act The Damn Truth who were dynamic, loud and rocky. The crowd was clearly enjoying them. A great warmup act.
Soon Glenn Hughes exploded onto the stage. This guy is amazing. His voice remains strong and soulful and he has so much energy. Glenn was clearly pleased to be back in the north-east and delivered a set of Deep Purple classics, each song lasting 10 to 15 minutes with extended guitar solos. There was even a drum solo! This was a proper 1970s rock performance. Standout songs were “Mistreated”, “Burn” and a great rendition of “Highway Star”.
The Voice of Rock demonstrated how he deserves this title. Great showmanship, much patting of the heart and dedication to his old friend and bandmate the late, great Tommy Bolin. They both shared addictions sadly Tommy did not survive, while Glenn managed to beat his demons. Glenn has lived in the USA for many years, and has put together an excellent band with an exceptional guitarist who did justice to those great Purple rock anthems.
An excellent night with a truly exciting and explosive rock legend. I bought a signed poster. Many thanks to Jackie and Chris for the images.
Setlist: Stormbringer; Might Just Take Your Life; Sail Away; You Fool No One; Mistreated; Gettin’ Tighter; You Keep On Moving.
Encore: Highway Star; Burn.
Vintagerock's Weblog. 
Posted by John Johnstone on October 18, 2023 at 2:49 pm
HI Peter,
Your post reminded me of the fantastic show that Deep Purple put on at the Odeon in 1974. Man, Blackmore was on fire that night and Coverdale gave it his all. It remains one of my most favourite shows that I have been to. However, I must admit that, although Glenn Hughes played and sang well, being a hard rock nut I wasn’t so enamoured with the funky edge that he brought to their music (and he proclaimed his love for Terry Hibbert that night, which didn’t go down too well as I am a Sunderland fan!). Still, what a gig!
Cheers
John
Posted by vintagerock on October 18, 2023 at 3:00 pm
Hi John I agree. Purple had a lot to prove that tour and it seemed as if they knew it and set out to show how great the new band was. I was totally gobsmacked by their performance at the Odeon and like you, it was one of the best concerts I can remember. Happy days Peter
Posted by treetopflier2009 on October 23, 2023 at 12:53 pm
Nice one Peter. Burn has always been one of my favourite ‘Purple albums!
Posted by vintagerock on October 23, 2023 at 3:07 pm
Hi yes and Glenn Hughes did Burn justice! The guy is an electric human dynamo. Happy days Peter