People Think of Ritchie as an Angry, Unfriendly Guy — That’s Not Him”: Ronnie Romero Opens Up About Working with Rock Legends Ritchie Blackmore and Michael Schenker
In the often larger-than-life world of rock and heavy metal, few figures loom as large as Ritchie Blackmore and Michael Schenker. Both guitar virtuosos with decades-long careers, legions of devoted fans, and reputations for being uncompromising perfectionists, these icons have both been at the center of music mythology — and sometimes controversy. But for vocalist Ronnie Romero, the reality behind the legends is far more human, nuanced, and, in many ways, heartwarming.
Romero, the Chilean-born, Spain-based singer whose powerhouse vocals have earned him spots fronting both Ritchie Blackmore’s Rainbow and Michael Schenker Group, recently spoke about his experiences working with these rock titans and offered some surprising reflections on the man behind Blackmore’s notoriously prickly public image.
A Voice Built for the Legends
Romero burst onto the international rock scene in 2015 when he was personally chosen by Ritchie Blackmore to front the resurrected Rainbow lineup. At the time, Blackmore’s decision to return to hard rock after years devoted to his medieval folk project Blackmore’s Night sent shockwaves through the rock community. Even more surprising was his pick of Romero — then a relatively unknown name outside of certain European rock circles — to step into the shoes of iconic Rainbow vocalists like Ronnie James Dio, Graham Bonnet, Joe Lynn Turner, and Doogie White.
Yet from the first note of Rainbow’s return concerts in 2016, it was clear Romero was no mere stand-in. His soaring, powerful delivery and effortless command of both Rainbow and Deep Purple classics won over skeptical audiences and helped bring the music to new life.
Since then, Romero’s star has continued to rise. He’s fronted Michael Schenker Group (MSG), sung for Lords of Black, The Ferrymen, and embarked on a solo career, with each project showcasing his versatile, emotionally charged voice.
Dispelling the Blackmore Myth
In a recent candid interview, Romero reflected on his time working alongside Ritchie Blackmore and addressed the long-standing rumors about the guitarist’s allegedly difficult personality.
> “People think of Ritchie as an angry, unfriendly guy, and that’s not him. I knew him when he was in a very good place in life. He was happy, relaxed, and honestly, he treated me like family.”
Romero explained that while Blackmore has always been known for his perfectionism — a trait that has, over the years, led to volatile band lineups and fiery anecdotes — the guitarist he worked with was warm, funny, and deeply passionate about music
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