It’s Official: Netflix to Release Jon Lord Documentary, Set to premiere in….
Netflix has officially confirmed the release of a brand-new documentary chronicling the life and legacy of Jon Lord, the legendary keyboardist and co-founder of Deep Purple. Slated for a global premiere in July 2025, the film will offer fans and newcomers alike an in-depth look at one of rock music’s most innovative and influential figures.
**A Musical Giant Remembered**
Jon Lord was far more than just a member of Deep Purple. He was a classically trained pianist, a pioneer in the fusion of rock and classical music, and a key architect of the heavy metal genre. Known for his thunderous Hammond organ sound and genre-defying compositions, Lord’s musical influence stretched across generations and genres.
The documentary, titled *”Lord of the Keys: The Jon Lord Story”*, will explore his rich life story — from his early classical training and London session work to international fame with Deep Purple and later, his orchestral solo work. It also promises to include never-before-seen archival footage, rare interviews, and intimate commentary from Lord’s family, former bandmates, and musical peers.
**A Star-Studded Cast of Collaborators**
Directed by Oscar-nominated filmmaker Asif Kapadia (*Amy*, *Senna*, *Diego Maradona*), the documentary features contributions from a who’s who of the rock and classical worlds. Surviving members of Deep Purple — including Ian Gillan, Roger Glover, and Ian Paice — will reflect on Lord’s role in shaping the band’s sound and identity. Collaborators like David Coverdale (Whitesnake), Glenn Hughes, Metallica’s Lars Ulrich, and Queen’s Brian May will share their personal stories of working with and being influenced by Lord.
The film also includes commentary from classical musicians and composers who admired Lord’s bold experimentation with symphonic rock, particularly his groundbreaking 1969 *Concerto for Group and Orchestra*, which was performed at the Royal Albert Hall with the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra.
**Behind the Music and the Man**
Rather than simply focusing on Lord’s fame and musical accomplishments, *Lord of the Keys* seeks to paint a more holistic portrait of the man behind the music. Through interviews with Lord’s widow Vickie and daughter Sara, the film provides a touching look at his off-stage life — his warmth, humor, intellect, and humility.
“It’s not just about the riffs or the solos,” said director Asif Kapadia. “This is a film about a man who redefined what a rock musician could be — a man of immense talent, creativity, and grace. His story is as emotional and inspiring as his music.”
One of the most anticipated segments of the documentary will detail Lord’s final years, which saw him return to his classical roots before his death in 2012 from pancreatic cancer. His final album, *Concerto for Group and Orchestra 2012*, marked a full-circle moment in his artistic journey, blending his rock persona with symphonic grandeur in a powerful farewell.
**Archival Riches and Musical Legacy**
Netflix has reportedly secured exclusive rights to a treasure trove of archival material, including vintage Deep Purple tour footage, studio sessions, personal letters, and home videos. For fans, this means an unprecedented glimpse into Lord’s creative process and personal reflections.
Music journalist and author Mick Wall, who consulted on the project, called the documentary “a long-overdue celebration of a musical genius.” He added, “Jon was always seen as the quiet intellectual of Deep Purple — but in many ways, he was the soul of the band. His influence reaches far beyond what many realize.”
In addition to its Netflix release, the film will be accompanied by a companion soundtrack curated by Lord’s estate, featuring remastered tracks, deep cuts, and unreleased demos. A limited-edition vinyl pressing will also be available for collectors.
**Global Appeal and Enduring Influence**
While Jon Lord is best known for his work with Deep Purple, his influence can be felt across multiple genres. His pioneering use of the Hammond organ in a rock context helped shape the sound of bands like Uriah Heep, Yes, and even more modern acts like Opeth and Dream Theater.
The documentary will explore this wide-reaching impact, showing how Lord bridged musical worlds — jazz, blues, baroque, metal — with a singular voice. Young artists today, from progressive rock bands to classical ensembles, continue to cite Lord as a foundational influence.
**What to Expect in July 2025**
Netflix plans to roll out the documentary globally with a synchronized release date in mid-July 2025. A premiere event will be held in London, featuring a live orchestral performance of select pieces composed by Lord, including movements from his *Concerto for Group and Orchestra* and his 2008 composition *Durham Concerto*.
Leading up to the release, Netflix is expected to drop teaser trailers and behind-the-scenes content across its social media channels and YouTube. Fans can also look forward to a podcast mini-series and curated playlists tied to the film.
**A Fitting Tribute**
For fans of Deep Purple, classic rock, or simply powerful storytelling, *Lord of the Keys: The Jon Lord Story* promises to be both a nostalgic journey and a revelatory experience. More than a tribute, it’s a vivid chronicle of an artist who defied expectations and reshaped the musical landscape.
As Roger Glover puts it in the film’s trailer: “He wasn’t just a keyboard player. He was a composer, a thinker, a friend. Jon didn’t just play music — he *lived* it.”
