Deep Purple is a legendary English rock band formed in Hertford in 1968. They are considered pioneers of hard rock and heavy metal, known for their iconic guitar riffs, intricate solos, and powerful vocals. The band’s lineup has undergone numerous changes over the years, but their most famous lineup included Ian Gillan on vocals, Ritchie Blackmore on guitar, Jon Lord on keyboards, Roger Glover on bass, and Ian Paice on drums.
Deep Purple achieved massive success in the early 1970s with albums like “Deep Purple in Rock” (1970), “Fireball” (1971), and the landmark album “Machine Head” (1972), which featured the hit single “Smoke on the Water.” The riff from “Smoke on the Water” is one of the most recognizable guitar riffs in rock history. Other notable songs by Deep Purple include “Highway Star,” “Burn,” and “Child in Time.”
Throughout their career, Deep Purple has sold over 100 million albums worldwide, making them one of the best-selling bands of all time. They are also known for their electrifying live performances and improvisational skills, often incorporating extended instrumental passages into their songs.
Despite lineup changes and periods of hiatus, Deep Purple has continued to release albums and tour over the decades, maintaining a dedicated fan base around the world. They were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2016, recognizing their significant contributions to the rock music genre. Deep Purple’s influence on the development of hard rock and heavy metal remains profound, and their music continues to inspire generations of rock musicians.
1. Smoke on the Water
“Smoke on the Water” is a classic rock song by the British rock band Deep Purple. Released in 1972, it is one of the band’s most famous and recognizable songs. The song was written by the band members Ritchie Blackmore, Ian Gillan, Roger Glover, Jon Lord, and Ian Paice.
“Smoke on the Water” is known for its instantly recognizable guitar riff, played by Ritchie Blackmore, which is considered one of the greatest riffs in rock music history. The song’s lyrics were inspired by a real-life event when the Montreux Casino in Switzerland caught fire during a Frank Zappa concert on December 4, 1971. The band was staying in a nearby hotel and witnessed the fire, which led to the creation of the song’s iconic opening line: “We all came out to Montreux, on the Lake Geneva shoreline.”
The song’s driving rhythm, powerful guitar solos, and catchy chorus contributed to its widespread popularity. “Smoke on the Water” became a massive hit, reaching the top of the charts in several countries and solidifying Deep Purple’s status as one of the leading rock bands of the 1970s.
“Smoke on the Water” has remained a staple of classic rock radio and is often included in lists of the greatest rock songs of all time. Its enduring popularity has made it a favorite among fans of rock music, and it continues to be celebrated as one of Deep Purple’s signature songs.
2. Highway Star
“Highway Star” is a song by the British rock band Deep Purple. It was released on their 1972 album “Machine Head” and is one of their most famous and enduring songs.
“Highway Star” is characterized by its fast-paced tempo, virtuosic guitar and keyboard solos, and powerful vocals by Ian Gillan. The song features iconic guitar riffs by Ritchie Blackmore and an electrifying keyboard solo by Jon Lord. Lyrically, “Highway Star” celebrates the thrill of driving fast and living life on the edge, with references to the experience of being on the open road and the freedom it brings.
The song has become a staple of Deep Purple’s live performances and is often regarded as one of the greatest rock songs of all time. Its energetic instrumentation and memorable chorus have made it a favorite among fans of classic rock music. “Highway Star” has also been featured in various films, TV shows, and commercials, further cementing its status as a classic of the genre.
3. Space Truckin’
“Space Truckin'” is a song by the British rock band Deep Purple. It was released on their 1972 album “Machine Head.”
“Space Truckin'” is a high-energy rock song with a driving rhythm and catchy guitar riffs. The lyrics describe a futuristic journey through space, with references to space travel and exploration. The song features powerful vocals by Ian Gillan, blistering guitar solos by Ritchie Blackmore, and a dynamic rhythm section.
“Space Truckin'” has become one of Deep Purple’s most popular and enduring songs. Its energetic instrumentation and catchy melody have made it a favorite among fans of classic rock music. The song is often featured in Deep Purple’s live performances and has been covered by various artists over the years. It remains a classic of the rock genre and a staple of the band’s discography.
4. Hush
“Hush” is a song originally written by Joe South and first recorded by Billy Joe Royal in 1967. However, it is perhaps best known for the version recorded by the British rock band Deep Purple, released in 1968 as their debut single.
Deep Purple’s version of “Hush” features a distinctive blend of rock, pop, and psychedelic elements. It includes catchy guitar riffs, Hammond organ fills by Jon Lord, and Ian Gillan’s dynamic vocals. The song’s energetic and upbeat arrangement helped propel it to success.
“Hush” became a hit for Deep Purple, reaching the top 5 on the charts in several countries, including the United States. It helped establish Deep Purple as a significant force in the rock music scene and remains one of their most recognizable songs.
Over the years, “Hush” has been covered by numerous artists and has appeared in various films, television shows, and commercials. Its infectious melody and memorable hooks continue to captivate audiences, cementing its status as a classic rock anthem.
5. Woman from Tokyo
“Woman from Tokyo” is a song by the British rock band Deep Purple. It was released on their 1973 album “Who Do We Think We Are.”
“Woman from Tokyo” is a mid-tempo rock song with a catchy guitar riff and melodic vocals. The lyrics describe the narrator’s fascination with a woman from Tokyo and his desire to be with her. The song features Ian Gillan’s distinctive vocals, Ritchie Blackmore’s memorable guitar work, and Jon Lord’s dynamic keyboard playing.
“Woman from Tokyo” was a commercial success, reaching the top 10 in several countries, including the United Kingdom. It has since become one of Deep Purple’s most beloved songs and a staple of their live performances. The song’s catchy melody and memorable chorus have made it a favorite among fans of classic rock music.
6. Burn
“Burn” is a song by the British rock band Deep Purple, released in 1974 as the lead single from their eighth studio album, “Burn.” The song was written by the band members Ritchie Blackmore, David Coverdale, Jon Lord, and Ian Paice, along with the album’s producer, Martin Birch.
“Burn” is characterized by its driving rhythm, powerful guitar riffs, and soaring vocals. The song features a dynamic and energetic arrangement, with Ritchie Blackmore’s fiery guitar work complemented by David Coverdale’s passionate vocals. Jon Lord’s Hammond organ and Ian Paice’s thunderous drumming add to the song’s intensity.
Lyrically, “Burn” touches on themes of rebellion, liberation, and self-expression. The lyrics speak of breaking free from constraints and embracing one’s individuality, with lines like “The sky’s red flames, burning in the night” and “The fire’s gone, the fire’s in their eyes.”
Upon its release, “Burn” became a commercial success, reaching the top 10 on the charts in several countries. The song’s powerful performance and anthemic quality have made it a favorite among fans of hard rock and heavy metal.
“Burn” remains one of Deep Purple’s most iconic and enduring songs, often cited as a highlight of their discography. Its blistering guitar solos, infectious groove, and memorable chorus continue to captivate audiences, ensuring its legacy as a classic rock masterpiece.
7. Soldier of Fortune
“Soldier of Fortune” is a song by the British rock band Deep Purple. It was released on their 1974 album “Stormbringer.”
“Soldier of Fortune” is a ballad with melancholic lyrics and a haunting melody. The song features David Coverdale’s soulful vocals and Ritchie Blackmore’s emotive guitar playing. The lyrics describe the struggles and regrets of a soldier who has experienced loss and heartache.
“Soldier of Fortune” has become one of Deep Purple’s most beloved songs, known for its emotional depth and powerful performance. The song has been covered by various artists over the years and remains a favorite among fans of classic rock and blues music. Its haunting melody and poignant lyrics have made it a timeless classic in the rock genre.
8. Strange Kind of Woman
“Strange Kind of Woman” is a song by Deep Purple, released in 1971 as the lead single from their album “Fireball.” The song was written by the band members Ritchie Blackmore, Ian Gillan, Roger Glover, Jon Lord, and Ian Paice.
“Strange Kind of Woman” is characterized by its driving rhythm, catchy guitar riffs, and Ian Gillan’s distinctive vocal delivery. The song features a blues-rock sound with elements of hard rock, showcasing Deep Purple’s trademark musical style.
Lyrically, “Strange Kind of Woman” tells the story of a seductive and enigmatic woman who captivates the narrator with her mysterious allure. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of the woman’s unconventional and unpredictable nature, with lines like “She’s not exactly pretty, she’s not exactly small” and “She’s a strange kind of woman.”
Upon its release, “Strange Kind of Woman” became a commercial success, reaching the top 10 on the charts in several countries. The song’s infectious groove and memorable chorus made it a fan favorite and a staple of Deep Purple’s live performances.
“Strange Kind of Woman” remains one of Deep Purple’s most beloved and enduring songs, often cited as a classic of the hard rock genre. Its energetic performance, catchy melody, and playful lyrics continue to captivate audiences, ensuring its legacy as a timeless rock anthem.
9. Perfect Strangers
“Perfect Strangers” is a song by the British rock band Deep Purple. It was released as the title track of their eleventh studio album, which was released in 1984.
“Perfect Strangers” is characterized by its powerful and dynamic instrumentation, featuring driving guitar riffs, energetic drumming, and Ian Gillan’s soaring vocals. The song’s lyrics explore themes of reunion and reconciliation, with Gillan singing about reconnecting with someone from his past.
The track “Perfect Strangers” became one of Deep Purple’s most successful songs, reaching the top 20 in several countries and becoming a staple of their live performances. It is often regarded as one of the standout tracks of the album and of Deep Purple’s discography as a whole.
The song’s memorable guitar riff and anthemic chorus have made it a favorite among fans of hard rock and heavy metal music. “Perfect Strangers” remains a classic of the genre and a testament to Deep Purple’s enduring legacy as one of the pioneers of rock music.
10. Child in Time
“Child in Time” is a song by Deep Purple, released in 1970 as the opening track of their album “Deep Purple in Rock.” The song was written by the band members Ritchie Blackmore, Ian Gillan, Roger Glover, Jon Lord, and Ian Paice.
“Child in Time” is characterized by its epic length, powerful vocal performance by Ian Gillan, and dynamic shifts in intensity. The song features haunting verses with Gillan’s emotive vocals juxtaposed with explosive instrumental sections, including Ritchie Blackmore’s iconic guitar solos and Jon Lord’s virtuosic Hammond organ playing.
Lyrically, “Child in Time” is a protest song that addresses themes of war, environmental destruction, and the passage of time. The lyrics evoke a sense of urgency and despair, with Gillan singing about the need for change and the consequences of inaction.
Upon its release, “Child in Time” received critical acclaim for its ambitious composition and powerful delivery. While it was not released as a single, the song became a fan favorite and a staple of Deep Purple’s live performances, often extended with improvised instrumental sections.
“Child in Time” has since become one of Deep Purple’s most iconic and enduring songs, widely regarded as a masterpiece of progressive rock. Its intense emotion, technical prowess, and thought-provoking lyrics continue to captivate listeners, ensuring its legacy as a timeless classic in the rock music canon.
Edward Tomlin is a frequent contributor to Singers Room. Since 2005, Singersroom has been the voice of R&B around the world. Connect with us via social media below.
