Scoreload

Deep Purple is an English rock band formed in Hertford in 1968, widely regarded as one of the pioneers of hard rock and heavy metal, alongside Led Zeppelin and Black Sabbath. Formed in 1968, Deep Purple achieved initial success with a progressive/psychedelic sound before evolving into hard rock. The classic Mark II lineup (Ian Gillan, Ritchie Blackmore, Jon Lord, Roger Glover, Ian Paice) produced iconic albums like 'Machine Head' (featuring 'Smoke on the Water') and 'Made in Japan' in the early 1970s. Despite numerous lineup changes and breakups, the band has endured, continuing to tour and record for over five decades. They were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2016.

• Deep Purple's legendary 1972 performance in Osaka, Japan, was released as the live album 'Made in Japan', considered one of the greatest live rock albums ever. Much of it was improvised.
• The band has had numerous lineup changes, with drummer Ian Paice being the only constant member throughout their entire history. Ritchie Blackmore, the original guitarist, left in 1975 and again in 1993, forming Rainbow. His relationship with other members was often tumultuous.
• Keyboardist Jon Lord, known for his Hammond organ sound, pioneered fusing rock with classical music (e.g., 'Concerto for Group and Orchestra'). He left in 2002 and died in 2012 from pancreatic cancer.
• Vocalist Ian Gillan left the band in 1973 after conflicts (famously punching Blackmore on stage) and pursued other projects, including briefly managing a hotel. He rejoined in 1984 and remains the current singer.
• The iconic riff of 'Smoke on the Water' was inspired by a fire at the Montreux Casino during the recording of 'Machine Head', witnessed by the band.