About The Song
“Smoke on the Water” is a song by Deep Purple, released on their 1972 album Machine Head. The song was primarily written by Ian Gillan, who penned the lyrics based on the band’s experiences. The song’s iconic riff was composed by guitarist Ritchie Blackmore. “Smoke on the Water” by Deep Purple peaked at #4 in the United States and #21 in the United Kingdom. Deep Purple’s “Smoke on the Water” has sold approximately 23,630,000 units worldwide, making it one of their most successful songs in terms of sales.
The meaning behind Deep Purple’s “Smoke On The Water” stems from a real-life event: the 1971 fire at Montreux Casino during a Frank Zappa concert. Deep Purple, inspired by witnessing the incident, crafted the song. The lyrics depict the fire incident, with “Smoke on the Water” symbolizing the smoke billowing from the burning venue and reflecting on Lake Geneva. The song serves as more than just a hit; it’s a testament to music’s power to express emotions and tell stories.