Deep Purple, formed in 1968, is a pioneering band in the hard rock and heavy metal genres. Known for their dynamic lineup changes and legendary albums like "Machine Head" and "Deep Purple in Rock” they have created some of the most iconic rock songs in history, such as "Smoke on the Water" and "Highway Star”.
Deep Purple Career Highlights
1968: Deep Purple was formed in Hertford, England. The original lineup consisted of Ritchie Blackmore (guitar), Rod Evans (vocals), Nick Simper (bass), Jon Lord (keyboards), and Ian Paice (drums). Their debut album, "Shades of Deep Purple” was released in the same year.
1969: Ian Gillan replaced Rod Evans as the lead vocalist, and Roger Glover replaced Nick Simper on bass.
Breakthrough: Released "Concerto for Group and Orchestra” a pioneering fusion of rock and classical music, composed by Jon Lord.
1970: Released the album "Deep Purple in Rock” which marked their transition to a heavier rock sound and included hits like "Child in Time."
1971: Released the album "Fireball”.
1972: Released one of their most famous albums, "Machine Head” featuring iconic tracks such as "Smoke on the Water" and "Highway Star."
1973: David Coverdale replaced Ian Gillan as lead vocalist, and Glenn Hughes replaced Roger Glover on bass.
1974: Released the album "Burn” introducing the Mark III lineup and featuring hits like "Burn" and "Mistreated."
1975: Released the album "Stormbringer” showcasing a more funk-oriented sound.
Lineup Change - Ritchie Blackmore left the band and was replaced by Tommy Bolin.
1976: Released the album "Come Taste the Band”.
Breakup - The band disbanded later that year due to internal conflicts and the tragic death of Tommy Bolin.
1984: The classic Mark II lineup reunited and released the album "Perfect Strangers”.
1993: Released the album "The Battle Rages On..”. featuring the return of Ritchie Blackmore.
1994: Steve Morse replaced Ritchie Blackmore on guitar.
2002: Released the album "Bananas” marking a new era with Don Airey on keyboards after Jon Lord's retirement.
2013: Released the critically acclaimed album "Now What?!"
2020: Released the album "Whoosh!” continuing their legacy with new music.
Deep Purple Members
Current Members
Ian Paice (drums, 1968–present)
Roger Glover (bass, 1969–1973, 1984–present)
Ian Gillan (vocals, 1969–1973, 1984–present)
Steve Morse (guitar, 1994–present)
Don Airey (keyboards, 2002–present)
Former Members
Ritchie Blackmore (guitar, 1968–1975, 1984–1993)
Jon Lord (keyboards, 1968–2002)
Rod Evans (vocals, 1968–1969)
Nick Simper (bass, 1968–1969)
David Coverdale (vocals, 1973–1976)
Glenn Hughes (bass/vocals, 1973–1976)
Tommy Bolin (guitar, 1975–1976)
Deep Purple Grammy Awards
Despite their immense influence and success, Deep Purple has not won a Grammy Award, a disgrace. They were finally inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2016.
3 Most Famous Deep Purple Songs
1. "Smoke on the Water" (1972) - the first riff every guitarist learns!
- From the album "Machine Head” this song features one of the most recognizable guitar riffs in rock history.
2. "Highway Star" (1972)
- Also from "Machine Head” this track is a high-energy rock anthem showcasing the band's instrumental prowess.
3. "Child in Time" (1970)
- From the album "Deep Purple in Rock” this epic track highlights Ian Gillan's vocal range and the band's dynamic range.
Deep Purple Quotes
When you're around successful people, you realize their success has very little to do with their talent and almost everything to do with their work ethic.
Deep Purple Scandal/Gossip/Trivia
- Internal Conflicts: Deep Purple is known for its numerous lineup changes and internal conflicts.
- The Montreux Casino Fire: The incident that inspired "Smoke on the Water" occurred when a fan fired a flare gun into the ceiling during a Frank Zappa concert, causing the venue to burn down.
Deep Purple ratings
