“Smoke on the Water” is a song by the English rock band Deep Purple, released in 1972. The song has since become one of the most iconic and recognizable anthems of hard rock music.
The song was written by guitarist Ritchie Blackmore and was inspired by a real-life event that took place at the Montreux Casino in Switzerland in 1971. A fire broke out during a Frank Zappa concert, causing the casino to burn down. The lyrics describe the smoke from the fire drifting across Lake Geneva and settling over the town of Montreux.
“Smoke on the Water” has been widely recognized for its powerful riff, which has been described as one of the most famous and recognizable guitar riffs in the history of rock music. The riff has been frequently referenced, covered, and parodied in popular culture and has become a staple of rock guitar lessons.
The song’s popularity has earned it a place in numerous “best of” lists, including being ranked as the #4 rock song of all time by Rolling Stone magazine and the #1 guitar riff of all time by Total Guitar magazine. It has also been included in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame’s list of the 500 Songs That Shaped Rock and Roll.
In terms of its impact on the hard rock genre, “Smoke on the Water” has been credited with helping to establish hard rock as a distinct and influential musical style. The song’s powerful riff and driving beat have been described as epitomizing the sound and energy of hard rock music.
Despite its widespread recognition and influence, however, it would be inaccurate to label “Smoke on the Water” as the anthem of hard rock music. While the song has certainly played a significant role in the development and popularization of the genre, there are many other songs and artists that have contributed to the evolution and diversity of hard rock music.
In conclusion, “Smoke on the Water” by Deep Purple is a classic and iconic song that has played a significant role in the history of hard rock music. However, it would be inaccurate to label it as the anthem of the genre, as there are many other songs and artists that have contributed to the development and diversity of hard rock music.
