Former DEEP PURPLE Guitarist: ROCK HALL Induction Doesn't Have 'Anything To Do With Music'

British hard rock legends DEEP PURPLE are among 15 finalists for induction into the Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame's Class Of 2013, but the band's former guitarist, Ritchie Blackmore, recently told Billboard he "couldn't care less" about the possible honor.

Speaking to VH1 Radio Network's Dave Basner, Blackmore elaborated on his comments, saying, "I was quoted as saying I couldn't care less about it, and, yes, I couldn't care less, but at the same time, I don't wish to throw it back in their faces. I mean, I wouldn't turn up to any kind of such event. It's not, to me, anything to do with music. Music is about playing and getting on the stage, not receiving awards. I'm pretty bad at receiving awards."

Ritchie also spoke more about what he has against the Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame.

"No disrespect to the Hall Of Fame, whatever that is, I really don't keep up with it," he said. "I mean, there are so many Hall Of Fames and places that are honoring people and a lot of the time I see who they are honoring and it really has nothing to do with rock and roll — very strange people."

For the first time, the public gets to vote alongside the artists, historians and music industry insiders of the Rock Hall voting body. From now until December 5, fans can vote on RollingStone.com for the nominees they'd like to see inducted. The top five acts will comprise a "fan's ballot" that will count as one of the more than 600 ballots that determine the Class Of 2013. The results will be announced in mid-December.

The April 18, 2013 event is set for Nokia Theater in Los Angeles, marking the first time the ceremony will be held in the city since 1993. HBO will tape the show for broadcast at a later date.

Artists are considered for inclusion in the Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame 25 years after the release of their first recording.