Deep Purple is a British rock band formed in Hertford, England, in 1968. They are considered pioneers of hard rock and heavy metal music and are known for their virtuosic musicianship, distinctive sound, and memorable songs.
The band’s classic lineup, often referred to as the “Mark II” lineup, consisted of Ian Gillan on vocals, Ritchie Blackmore on guitar, Jon Lord on keyboards, Roger Glover on bass, and Ian Paice on drums. This lineup produced some of Deep Purple’s most iconic albums, including “Machine Head” (1972), which featured their signature song “Smoke on the Water.”
Throughout their career, Deep Purple has released numerous hit songs and albums, including classics like “Highway Star,” “Child in Time,” “Burn,” and “Perfect Strangers.” Their music is characterized by its powerful guitar riffs, intricate keyboard arrangements, and dynamic rhythm section.
Deep Purple’s influence on rock music is profound, with many artists citing them as inspiration. They are considered one of the most successful and influential bands in the history of rock music, having sold over 100 million albums worldwide.
Despite several lineup changes over the years, Deep Purple continues to perform and record music, with Ian Paice being the only constant member since the band’s inception. They have received numerous awards and accolades throughout their career, including induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2016.
Overall, Deep Purple’s legacy in rock music is enduring, with their music continuing to inspire generations of fans and musicians alike.
1. Smoke on the Water
“Smoke on the Water” is a classic rock song by the British rock band Deep Purple. Released in 1972 as part of their album “Machine Head,” the song is one of the band’s most iconic and recognizable tracks.
The song is known for its distinctive guitar riff, played by guitarist Ritchie Blackmore, which has become one of the most famous riffs in rock music history. “Smoke on the Water” also features powerful vocals by Ian Gillan, driving basslines by Roger Glover, and energetic drumming by Ian Paice.
Lyrically, “Smoke on the Water” recounts a real-life incident where Deep Purple’s recording sessions in Montreux, Switzerland, were disrupted by a fire at the Montreux Casino during a Frank Zappa concert. The lyrics describe the chaotic scene and the band’s experiences witnessing the fire, with the iconic opening line, “We all came out to Montreux, on the Lake Geneva shoreline.”
“Smoke on the Water” became a massive commercial success, reaching the top of the charts in several countries and solidifying Deep Purple’s status as one of the leading bands of the 1970s rock scene. The song’s enduring popularity has led to its inclusion in numerous “best of” lists and its frequent use in popular culture, including in films, television shows, and commercials.
Overall, “Smoke on the Water” remains a timeless rock anthem, celebrated for its unforgettable riff, powerful performance, and evocative storytelling.
2. Highway Star
“Highway Star” is a song by the British rock band Deep Purple, released in 1972 as the opening track of their album “Machine Head.” The song was written by the band members Ritchie Blackmore, Ian Gillan, Roger Glover, Jon Lord, and Ian Paice.
“Highway Star” is characterized by its driving rhythm, blistering guitar solos, and powerful vocals. The song’s lyrics describe the thrill of driving a fast car, with references to speed, freedom, and the open road. The narrator expresses a sense of exhilaration and excitement as they push their car to its limits on the highway.
The song features several iconic instrumental sections, including a memorable organ solo by Jon Lord and an extended guitar solo by Ritchie Blackmore. Ian Gillan’s dynamic vocal performance adds to the song’s energy and intensity, making it a standout track in Deep Purple’s repertoire.
“Highway Star” has become one of Deep Purple’s most beloved songs and a classic of hard rock music. It has been covered by various artists and featured in numerous films, television shows, and video games. The song’s electrifying energy and infectious melody continue to captivate audiences decades after its release.
3. Child in Time
“Child in Time” is a song by the British rock band Deep Purple, released in 1970 as the opening track of their album “Deep Purple in Rock.” The song was written by the band members Ian Gillan, Ritchie Blackmore, Roger Glover, Jon Lord, and Ian Paice.
“Child in Time” is characterized by its haunting vocals, intricate instrumentation, and dynamic shifts in tempo and intensity. The song’s lyrics touch on themes of war, conflict, and the passage of time, with references to the Vietnam War and the nuclear arms race.
The song features an extended instrumental section in the middle, showcasing virtuosic performances by each band member. Ian Gillan’s powerful vocal performance, including his signature high-pitched screams, adds to the song’s emotional impact and intensity.
“Child in Time” is often regarded as one of Deep Purple’s greatest achievements and a landmark in the progressive rock genre. It has been praised by critics for its innovative songwriting, complex arrangements, and powerful delivery. The song remains a fan favorite and is considered a classic of rock music.
4. Perfect Strangers
“Perfect Strangers” is a song by Deep Purple, released in 1984 as the title track of their eleventh studio album. The song marked the reunion of the classic Deep Purple Mark II lineup, featuring Ian Gillan on vocals, Ritchie Blackmore on guitar, Jon Lord on keyboards, Roger Glover on bass, and Ian Paice on drums.
“Perfect Strangers” is characterized by its powerful guitar riffs, intricate keyboard melodies, and driving rhythm section. The song’s lyrics, written by Ian Gillan and Ritchie Blackmore, explore themes of reunification and reconciliation, reflecting the band’s reunion after an eight-year hiatus.
The song became a commercial success, reaching the top 20 on the charts in several countries and revitalizing Deep Purple’s career. Its anthemic chorus and infectious energy made it a fan favorite and a staple of the band’s live performances.
“Perfect Strangers” is often regarded as one of Deep Purple’s standout tracks, showcasing their musical prowess and enduring appeal. It remains a classic of the hard rock genre and a highlight of the band’s extensive discography.
5. Hush
“Hush” is a song originally written by American musician Joe South in 1967. It was first recorded and released by Billy Joe Royal in the same year. However, it gained widespread popularity when it was covered by the British rock band Deep Purple in 1968.
Deep Purple’s version of “Hush” was included on their debut album, “Shades of Deep Purple.” The band’s rendition of the song features a more rock-oriented arrangement with prominent guitar riffs and organ fills, characteristic of their early sound.
“Hush” became Deep Purple’s first hit single, reaching the top five in several countries, including the United States and Canada. It remains one of the band’s most recognizable songs and has been covered by various artists over the years.
The song’s catchy melody and energetic performance contributed to its enduring popularity, and it continues to be a staple of classic rock radio stations and live performances by Deep Purple.
6. Burn
“Burn” is a song by Deep Purple, released in 1974 as the title track of their eighth studio album. It features the Mark III lineup of the band, which included David Coverdale on vocals, Ritchie Blackmore on guitar, Jon Lord on keyboards, Glenn Hughes on bass and vocals, and Ian Paice on drums.
“Burn” is characterized by its powerful guitar riffs, driving rhythm, and dynamic vocal performances. The song’s lyrics, written by David Coverdale and Ritchie Blackmore, touch upon themes of passion, desire, and rebirth.
The song became a major commercial success, reaching the top 10 on the charts in several countries. Its energetic and infectious sound made it a fan favorite and a staple of Deep Purple’s live performances.
“Burn” is often regarded as one of Deep Purple’s most iconic songs, showcasing the band’s musical prowess and their ability to create hard-hitting rock anthems. It remains a classic of the hard rock genre and a highlight of the band’s extensive discography.
7. Fireball
“Fireball” is a song by Deep Purple, released in 1971 as the title track of their fifth studio album. It is one of the band’s most energetic and fast-paced tracks, showcasing their trademark blend of hard rock and heavy metal.
“Fireball” is characterized by its driving rhythm, relentless guitar riffs, and powerful vocals by Ian Gillan. The song’s dynamic arrangement, featuring rapid-fire instrumentation and Ian Paice’s explosive drumming, creates a sense of urgency and excitement.
Lyrically, “Fireball” explores themes of speed, adrenaline, and the thrill of the chase. The lyrics evoke imagery of a fast-moving fireball tearing through the night sky, capturing the intensity and energy of the song.
“Fireball” was well-received by fans and critics alike, becoming a popular concert staple for Deep Purple. Its electrifying performance and infectious energy have solidified its status as one of the band’s classic tracks and a highlight of their live shows.
8. Space Truckin’
“Space Truckin'” is a song by Deep Purple, featured on their 1972 album “Machine Head.” It is one of the band’s most well-known tracks and a staple of their live performances.
The song is characterized by its energetic and driving rhythm, propelled by Ian Paice’s powerful drumming and Roger Glover’s driving bassline. Ritchie Blackmore’s iconic guitar riff adds to the song’s intensity, while Jon Lord’s keyboard flourishes contribute to its spacey atmosphere.
Lyrically, “Space Truckin'” explores themes of space travel and escapism, with references to futuristic imagery and adventures in outer space. The song’s infectious energy and catchy hooks make it a fan favorite and a classic of the hard rock genre.
“Space Truckin'” has been praised for its electrifying performance and its ability to captivate audiences with its high-energy sound. It remains one of Deep Purple’s most enduring and beloved songs, earning its place as a highlight of their legendary career.
9. Woman from Tokyo
“Woman from Tokyo” is a song by the British rock band Deep Purple, released in 1973 as the first single from their album “Who Do We Think We Are.” The song was written by the band members Ritchie Blackmore, Ian Gillan, Roger Glover, Jon Lord, and Ian Paice.
“Woman from Tokyo” is characterized by its driving rhythm, catchy guitar riff, and memorable vocal melody. The song’s lyrics describe the band’s experiences touring in Japan and encountering the culture and people there, particularly a woman from Tokyo who captivates the narrator’s attention.
The song features an energetic performance by each band member, with Ritchie Blackmore’s guitar work and Jon Lord’s keyboard playing standing out in particular. Ian Gillan’s dynamic vocal delivery adds to the song’s infectious energy and makes it a standout track on the album.
“Woman from Tokyo” was a commercial success, reaching the top 10 in several countries, including the United Kingdom and Germany. It remains one of Deep Purple’s most popular songs and a fan favorite at their live performances. Its catchy melody and memorable lyrics continue to resonate with audiences decades after its release.
10. Soldier of Fortune
“Soldier of Fortune” is a song by Deep Purple, featured on their 1974 album “Stormbringer.” It is a notable departure from the band’s typical hard rock sound, instead showcasing a more melancholic and introspective side.
The song is characterized by its emotive lyrics and David Coverdale’s soulful vocal delivery, accompanied by Ritchie Blackmore’s delicate guitar work. The subdued instrumentation, including acoustic guitar and strings, adds to the song’s somber mood.
Lyrically, “Soldier of Fortune” explores themes of heartbreak, regret, and longing. The narrator reflects on their experiences as a wandering soul, searching for love and redemption but ultimately finding themselves alone and adrift.
“Soldier of Fortune” has been praised for its poignant lyrics and emotional resonance, standing out as a standout track on “Stormbringer” and in Deep Purple’s discography as a whole. It has become a fan favorite and a staple of the band’s live performances, showcasing their versatility as musicians and songwriters.