"Smoke on the Water" is a popular rock song by the British rock band Deep Purple. It was released in 1972 as part of their album "Machine Head" and has since become one of their most recognizable and iconic songs.
The song's famous guitar riff is instantly recognizable and has been hailed as one of the greatest riffs in rock music history. The riff was composed by Deep Purple's guitarist, Ritchie Blackmore. The lyrics of "Smoke on the Water" tell the story of an actual event that took place in Montreux, Switzerland, where Deep Purple had planned to record their album at the Montreux Casino. However, during a Frank Zappa concert at the casino, a fire broke out, destroying the venue. The lyrics describe the events of the fire and the aftermath.
"Smoke on the Water" features a straightforward and catchy structure, with a driving rhythm and powerful vocals by Ian Gillan. The song has become a staple of classic rock radio and is often performed live by Deep Purple to this day. It has also been covered by numerous artists over the years, further cementing its status as a rock music classic.
Overall, "Smoke on the Water" is not only a beloved rock anthem but also a defining song in Deep Purple's discography and a significant contribution to the history of rock music.