Nearly everyone who has ever picked up an electric guitar as surely spent at least a few minutes smiling as they power through the iconic central riff of “Smoke On The Water.” A simple, four-note blues scale that is harmonized in parallel fourths, the riff has been reworked by countless artists, and even was a favorite of heavy metal loving, cartoon icons, Beavis & Butthead. Though nearly everyone on Earth is certainly familiar with the song itself, few are aware of the truth behind the song, and this knowledge only adds to the overall greatness of Deep Purple’s “Smoke On The Water.” From the iconic guitar riff to the story within the lyrics, everything about the song is truly perfect, and it is no surprise that the single powered the record to become the bands’ most commercially successful effort. However, even if there is possibly a more complex musical arrangement on the album (“Highway Star”), one simply cannot deny the lasting impact of “Smoke On The Water,” and it is similarly almost impossible to think of a world in which the song did not exist. Filled with truth and lies, as well as some of the finest musicianship ever, the song is all on its own in terms of status, and yet, it is one of the many classic songs that almost “never was.” By far Deep Purple’s most famous composition, one can make the case that, while it is such an important part of music history, it may not be the finest moment on the groups’ classic 1972 record, Machine Head. Then of course, there is “Smoke On The Water.” Without question one of the most instantly recognizable and iconic songs in history, it remains one of the most treasured songs ever recorded. Throughout music history, there are memorable lyrics, hooks, and moments all of which have the ability to cross the boundaries of generations and musical tastes. CLICK HERE TO LISTEN (will open in new tab)

Deep purple smoke on the water singer