Who's behind the notes? Discover Deep Purple: Pioneers of Hard Rock and Heavy Metal
"Smoke on the Water" is one of Deep Purple's most iconic songs, and it's known for its distinctive guitar riff. Here are some interesting facts about the song:
Inspiration for the Song: "Smoke on the Water" was inspired by a real-life event. Deep Purple was in Montreux, Switzerland, to record their album "Machine Head" at the Montreux Casino. During a Frank Zappa concert at the casino, a fire broke out and destroyed the venue. The smoke from the fire on Lake Geneva inspired the song's title.
Guitar Riff: The famous guitar riff in "Smoke on the Water" was composed by Deep Purple's guitarist Ritchie Blackmore. The riff is instantly recognizable and has become one of the most iconic in rock history.
Recording Challenges: The recording of "Smoke on the Water" faced some challenges. The band initially struggled to capture the sound they wanted. They eventually found a mobile recording studio, the Rolling Stones Mobile Studio, and recorded the song in the empty Grand Hotel in Montreux.
Lyrics: The lyrics of the song were written by Deep Purple's lead vocalist Ian Gillan. The lyrics describe the events surrounding the fire at the Montreux Casino and the recording process itself.
Chart Success: "Smoke on the Water" was released as a single in 1973 and became a commercial success. It reached the top 5 in several countries and is often considered one of the greatest rock songs of all time.
Cultural Impact: The song has had a significant impact on popular culture and has been covered and referenced in various forms of media. Its riff is often one of the first that aspiring guitarists learn to play.
Live Performances: "Smoke on the Water" is a staple in Deep Purple's live performances. The band has played the song countless times over the years, and it remains a fan favorite.
Album Cover Art: The cover art for the "Machine Head" album features a photograph of the smoke rising over Lake Geneva, capturing the atmosphere of the event that inspired the song.
"Smoke on the Water" continues to be a timeless classic, and its legacy has endured for decades in the world of rock music.