Conversation so far:
When did the band, Deep Purple form?
The band, Deep Purple began forming in 1967.
How did the band, Deep Purple form?
Former Searchers drummer Chris Curtis contacted London businessman Tony Edwards, in the hope that he would manage a new group he was putting together, to be called Roundabout.
What did Tony Edwards then say to Chris Curtis?
Impressed with the plan, businessman Tony Edwards agreed to finance the venture with his two business partners John Coletta and Ron Hire, who comprised Hire-Edwards-Coletta Enterprises.
Who were the members of the new band, Roundabout?
The first recruit to the band was classically trained Hammond organ player Jon Lord, Chris Curtis' flatmate, who had most notably played with the Artwoods.
Were there any other members of the group, Roundabout besides Jon Lord?
Jon Lord was then performing in a backing band for the vocal group The Flower Pot Men, along with bassist Nick Simper and drummer Carlo Little whom he invited.
What happened next with Roundabout after Jon Lord invited Nick Simper and Carlo Little?
Jon Lord alerted Nick Simper and Carlo Little that he had been recruited for the Roundabout project, after which Simper and Little suggested Ritchie Blackmore.

Question: What did Blackmore play?
Self-contained rewrite: What did Richard Hugh Blackmore play?