Don Airey was born on June 21, 1948 in Sunderland, England. He grew up in a musical family, with his father Norman Airey being a musician as well. Airey showed an interest in music from a young age and began studying piano at the age of 7.
After completing his schooling, Airey went on to earn a degree from the University of Nottingham and a diploma from the Royal Northern College of Music. Following his formal education, he joined a band and embarked on a journey working on cruise liners around the world, honing his skills as a pianist and keyboardist.
Airey's big break came when he became the pianist for the legendary rock band Deep Purple. His talent and unique style quickly made him a key member of the band. He later went on to join the jazz rock band Colosseum II in the 1970s, before joining Rainbow and contributing to the success of two highly acclaimed albums.
Throughout his career, Airey has been involved in various music projects and collaborations, including joining rock bands such as Ten and Hollywood Monsters. He has also released several solo albums, showcasing his versatility and talent as a musician.
Aside from his musical endeavors, Airey values his family life. He is married to his wife Doris and they have three children together. Airey's brothers, Keith and Paul Airey, are also musicians, highlighting the strong musical influence in the family.
Overall, Don Airey's career has been marked by his extraordinary talent, versatility, and passion for music. His contributions to the rock and metal genres have solidified his place as one of the most respected musicians in the industry.
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