Deep Purple is a British rock band that formed in Hertfordshire, England in 1968. The band is widely regarded as one of the pioneers of heavy metal and hard rock music, with their innovative use of distorted guitars, Hammond organ, and classical music influences. They have sold over 100 million records worldwide and are one of the most successful and influential bands in rock history.
Deep Purple’s classic lineup included Ian Gillan on vocals, Ritchie Blackmore on guitar, Jon Lord on keyboards, Roger Glover on bass, and Ian Paice on drums. They achieved widespread fame in the early 1970s with hits like “Smoke on the Water,” “Highway Star,” and “Space Truckin’,” which showcased their unique sound and virtuosity as musicians.
The band has undergone numerous lineup changes over the years, but their music has remained a staple of classic rock radio and their live performances are still considered some of the most powerful and energetic in the industry.
Deep Purple’s legacy is one of innovation, creativity, and virtuosity. They continue to inspire new generations of musicians and remain one of the most beloved and respected bands in rock history.
1. “Child In Time”
One of the most remarkable songs in music history is known for the band’s powerful vocal and electrifying guitar sounds. This classic song is an example of how Deep Purple has influenced rock music with their unique musical style. With its complex structuring, haunting vocals, and intense instrumental breakdowns, this track has stood the test of time and evolved into a timeless masterpiece.
Throughout "Child In Time," Jon Lord's organ-conjured staircase leads towards Ian Gillan's bone-chilling cries. As he unleashes his full vocal range in this ballad-like hard rock anthem, Gillan conveys a deep sense of despair and frustration that soon shifts into a soulful musical explosion. The song flows flawlessly from sparseness to penetration as it progresses, ultimately leading to a dizzying climax that makes tears whelm up one's eyes.
What makes "Child In Time" stand out among other tracks by Deep Purple is its extraordinary length, running more than 10 minutes despite being a radio hit worldwide. It shows the band's unbridled creativity in engineering something musically stunning and memorable.
Believed to be one of Ian Gillan's favorites, he recently confessed that recording "Child In Time" was an exhausting experience emotionally; the final version came only after 38 takes inside the studio!
Buckle up, because Highway Star is the musical equivalent of flooring it on an open road with no speed limit.
2. “Highway Star”
This iconic track is one of the most celebrated songs from Deep Purple. It boasts powerful vocals, shredding guitar riffs, and fast-paced drums that keep listeners on the edge of their seats. The song tells the story of a speed-crazed car driver who is unstoppable on the highway. The opening riff itself has been enough to make crowds go wild at concerts for decades.
As the opening track from Deep Purple's seminal album 'Machine Head', "Highway Star" has become a symbol of classic rock and is regarded as one of the greatest rock songs ever recorded. The complexity of guitar solo showcases Ritchie Blackmore's mastery over his instrument, catapulting him into international stardom. The band members' unity in their playing shines through each note and chord change.
Interestingly, despite being an essential rock song, "Highway Star" was not entirely scripted when the band entered the studio. It was created by improvising during jam sessions, showing just how much talent resided within each band member. Its enduring popularity marks it as a classic for all rock music lovers and continues to inspire new generations of musicians even today.
"Don't bother learning any other guitar riff until you've nailed 'Smoke On The Water' – it's like the ABCs of rock."
3. “Smoke On The Water”
This song, one of Deep Purple's most iconic pieces, has been called "A Child in Time's" follow-up and a song that’s become a trope because it was overplayed. However, "Smoke On The Water" still stands the test of time as an anthem with arguably the most recognizable guitar riff ever created. This song is widely regarded as the one that popularized hard rock and heavy metal music– genres that continue to captivate audiences today.
In "Smoke On The Water," Ritchie Blackmore cleverly strikes his guitar with a 4-note primary riff from which the rest of the song develops. Combined with Ian Paice's precise drumming and Jon Lord's powerful Hammond organ playing, this piece builds to its explosive chorus section that leaves listeners humming.
Did you know “Smoke On The Water” was inspired by a real-life event? Deep Purple witnessed smoke rising from fire on Lake Geneva during Frank Zappas' concert at Montreux Casino in Switzerland and used it as inspiration for the lyrics. This detail adds even more depth to an already remarkable tune.
“Pictures Of Home” is like a sassy ex who won’t leave your head, but in a good way.
4. “Pictures Of Home”
This classic Deep Purple track from their Machine Head album is a quintessential example of the band's heavy rock style. The song merges the guitar-heavy riffs of Ritchie Blackmore with Ian Gillan's soaring vocals and distinct lyrics. The iconic opening riff and lively organ solo have become legendary in rock music, while the slower, softer break in the middle of the song offers a dynamic contrast to the powerhouse main section. "Pictures Of Home" is a must-listen for anyone looking to explore Deep Purple's discography and experience their innovative approach to hard rock.
One standout feature of "Pictures Of Home" is how it manages to blend raw power with subtle moments of melody and introspection. The interplay between Blackmore and Jon Lord's keyboards provides a rich backdrop for Gillan's vocal performance, which ranges from commanding and forceful to delicate and yearning. The lyrics themselves are somewhat enigmatic but suggest themes of longing, change, and nostalgia. Overall, "Pictures Of Home" is an excellent showcase of Deep Purple's instrumental prowess as well as their ability to push boundaries within traditional rock music structures.
For those who enjoy this song, other great examples that exhibit Deep Purple's unique style include "Highway Star," "Smoke on the Water," and "Child In Time." These tracks all demonstrate the band's talent for crafting memorable hooks, complex arrangements, and epic lyrical themes that continue to resonate with audiences today. Fans seeking a deeper dive into Deep Purple should also check out their lesser-known albums such as Who Do We Think We Are? or Burn, which offer fresh perspectives on the band's sound.
Listening to 'Speed King' is like being on a wild rollercoaster ride – screaming from the start, holding on for dear life, and feeling a rush of adrenaline until the very end.
5. “Speed King”
This track, a part of Deep Purple's 1970 album 'In Rock', is known for its blazing guitar riffs and frenetic drumming. Considered by many as one of the band's defining songs, the track features extensive solos and improvisation. The lyrics, inspired by a car race, are at once playful and evocative. Fans love this song for its energy and lively performance.
A highlight of "Speed King" is undoubtedly Ritchie Blackmore's blistering guitar work, which set new standards in rock music. He makes use of a variety of techniques including hammer-ons, pull-offs, and bends to create an electrifying solo that still feels fresh today. Ian Paice's drumming is also exceptional throughout the piece. His relentless beats drive the song forward with an unyielding intensity.
For those who want to experience Deep Purple at their best, "Speed King" is the perfect starting point. It showcases all the elements that made the band so great – raw energy, technical prowess, and a sense of fun.
Pro Tip: Listen to Live Versions of "Speed King" to Fully Appreciate Its Power and Energy
Get ready to feel the burn with Fireball – Deep Purple's ode to setting things on fire (figuratively, of course).
6. “Fireball”
This epic track burns with the fire of its title. The sixth entry in our top ten best Deep Purple songs of all time has an explosive energy that will leave you breathless. From the opening riff to Ian Gillan's soaring vocals, "Fireball" is a masterpiece of hard rock. It's no wonder it became one of the band's most beloved hits, known for its driving rhythm and blistering guitar solos. Fans still can't get enough of this incendiary classic today.
"Fireball" was released in 1971 and quickly climbed up the charts, cementing Deep Purple's status as one of the biggest names in rock music at the time. The song starts with a driving bass line courtesy of Roger Glover before Ian Paice's thunderous drums kick in. Ritchie Blackmore's guitar work is on full display here, culminating in a searing solo that will leave you dazzled.
What sets "Fireball" apart from other hard rock classics is its attention to detail and intricate musicianship. Every note and chord is perfectly placed, creating a sonic landscape that immerses the listener completely.
Pro Tip: To fully appreciate "Fireball," listen to it on high volume through quality speakers or headphones to experience the full impact of this powerhouse track.
This song will make you want to burn your air guitar and set your speakers on fire.
7. “Burn”
The song that occupies the seventh spot in this list is a true masterpiece – a fiery and intense track that showcases Deep Purple's musical prowess at its finest. With its soaring vocals, blistering guitar riffs, and powerful drumming, this song is guaranteed to get your blood pumping and your head banging. It's a testament to the enduring appeal of Deep Purple's sound, which has inspired countless bands and musicians over the years.
As one of the band's most iconic tracks, “Burn” is instantly recognizable from its opening notes. The song features an intricate instrumental section that builds steadily towards a thunderous climax, with each member of the band contributing their unique talents to create a truly unforgettable listening experience. Whether you're a diehard fan or simply someone who appreciates great music, this is one song that you simply can't afford to miss.
Of note is the fact that “Burn” was released as part of the album of the same name in 1974. This was an important moment in Deep Purple's career, as it marked both the end of their classic Mark II lineup and the beginning of a new era for the band. Despite these changes, however, “Burn” remains one of their most beloved songs and continues to captivate audiences around the world to this day.
If you haven't yet had the pleasure of listening to “Burn” by Deep Purple, then you're missing out on one of rock music's greatest treasures. Don't wait any longer – give this iconic track a listen today and discover for yourself why it's earned its place among the best songs ever recorded by this legendary band.
Listening to 'Perfect Strangers' is like finding a pot of gold at the end of a rainbow, except the gold is actually just Ian Gillan's voice and the rainbow is a sick guitar riff.
8. “Perfect Strangers”
This hit song showcases Deep Purple's artistry of creating a blend of rock and classical music, making it iconic in their repertoire. The heavy guitar riffs fused with the classical keyboard melody creates a unique sound that remains timeless today.
The lyrics speak of reuniting with an old friend or lover, making it a relatable tune to many listeners. “Perfect Strangers” received commercial success and charted in several countries around the world upon its release in 1984.
As one of the most recognizable songs from Deep Purple, "Perfect Strangers" has been covered by other musicians and featured as background music in various media projects. Its lasting popularity proves that this classic rock band's musicality transcends generations and trends.
Listeners can feel the raw energy emanating from this song, making it an excellent choice for getting pumped up or energized during a workout routine or while driving on long road trips. Moreover, fans can appreciate the technical prowess shown by all members through this song’s intricate arrangement, particularly Jon Lord's keyboard skills and Ritchie Blackmore’s guitar solos.
Get ready to blast off with 'Space Truckin' – the perfect soundtrack for your intergalactic road trip.
9. “Space Truckin’”
This classic hit from Deep Purple's album 'Machine Head' takes listeners on a psychedelic journey through space. 'Space Truckin’' showcases the band's intricate instrumentation, with Ian Paice’s thunderous drumming perfectly complementing Ritchie Blackmore’s electrifying guitar riffs. The driving rhythm and energetic vocals of Ian Gillan make it impossible to resist headbanging along to this iconic anthem. Its popularity has endured over the decades, and it remains a fan favorite in concerts worldwide.
Listening to 'Mistreated' makes me feel like I need a therapist and a stiff drink, but in a good way.
10. “Mistreated”
This song is a masterpiece that showcases Deep Purple's prowess. Its bluesy guitar riffs and wailing vocals transport the listener to another era. The lyrics speak of heartbreak and betrayal, making it a relatable classic that resonates with audiences across generations. The raw emotion in this track leaves an indelible mark on its listeners.
One of the standout features of "Mistreated" is Ritchie Blackmore's guitar work. His solos are soulful and passionate, adding depth and texture to an already powerful track. Ian Gillan's vocals are equally impressive, delivering every word with intensity and poignancy.
What sets "Mistreated" apart from other Deep Purple classics is its ability to create a sense of empathy in its listeners. It taps into universal themes of love and loss, leaving an impact long after the song has ended.
Interestingly, despite being one of their best tracks, "Mistreated" was never released as a single. Nonetheless, it remains a fan favorite and an essential part of any Deep Purple playlist.
Legend has it that during one live performance, Ritchie Blackmore's guitar strings broke midway through the song. Instead of panicking or stopping the performance, he continued playing with only three strings, proving his talent and dedication to his craft. This incident further solidified the iconic status of "Mistreated" amongst fans worldwide.
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.
