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.
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Lyrics
We all came out to Montreux
On the Lake Geneva shoreline
To make records with a mobile
We didn’t have much time
Frank Zappa and the Mothers
Were at the best place around
But some stupid with a flare gun
Burned the place to the ground
Smoke on the water, a fire in the sky
Smoke on the water
They burned down the gambling house
It died with an awful sound
Funky Claude was running in and out
Pulling kids out the ground
When it all was over
We had to find another place
But Swiss time was running out
It seemed that we would lose the race
Smoke on the water, a fire in the sky
Smoke on the water
We ended up at the Grand Hotel
It was empty, cold and bare
But with the Rolling truck Stones thing just outside
Making our music there
With a few red lights and a few old beds
We made a place to sweat
No matter what we get out of this
I know, I know we’ll never forget
Smoke on the water, a fire in the sky
Smoke on the water