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Our 10 Biggest Deep Purple Hits songs list focuses on a classic rock band. Deep Purple is a legendary rock band who has been in the music business since the late 60s. They are considered one of the pioneers of heavy metal and hard rock music. They were part of the unholy trinity of British hard rock and heavy metal music alongside Led Zeppelin and Black Sabbath in the mid-seventies. Deep Purple sold over 100 million albums. They have been picked as one of the most influential bands in rock music. Fans of rock music enjoy their songs because they are classics that still hold up today. The band changed their style and that kept fans on their toes. You never knew what they would do next.
# 10 – Hallelujah
The 10th song on our 10 Biggest Deep Purple Hits list is “Hallelujah.” The non -album single was released in 1970 and peaked at number 108 on the Billboard Hot 100 charts. We love the opening as Hammond organ sets it all up Ian’s amazing vocals to blow us all away. Ritchie Blackmore delivers a scorching guitar solo as usual. The song is about love making the world better. The band talks about the world being chaotic. They see themselves as representatives of a better way of life. It is important to love and bring positive changes to the world. They want younger people to help spread the message of hope. They believe their voices can make a difference. In the second verse, they emphasize the importance of spreading the message of hope to prejudiced and judgmental people.
“Hallelujah” is an inspirational song about spreading unity in the world. They want everyone to embrace love and be open to other people’s opinions. It can make the world a better place. It’s a reminder that people should love one another. We applaud Deep Purple for spreading a message like this one. There aren’t too many rock bands that spread the message of love and hope in their music. The song was recorded in the 70s, but it’s still relevant today. This is a song we didn’t know we needed until we heard it. With everything going on in the world, the message of this song is still relevant. If you weren’t a fan of Deep Purple, this song may make you a fan. This song is a pleaser for fans of any type of music.
# 9 – Burn
The ninth song on our 10 Biggest Deep Purple Hits list is “Burn” and appears on the album of the same name. Everyone loves this one. That opening guitar riff by Blackmore is one of the most iconic in classic rock history. I just dig how the organ and guitar match up so perfectly. The chorus is so killer. The song was released in 1974. “Burn” peaked at number 105 on the Billboard Hot 100 charts. The song is about a mysterious woman with powers. She sparks fear in the people around her. People think she’s evil and her presence makes them uneasy. She warns people that bad things are going to happen, but they don’t believe her. When the destruction occurs no one is spared.
“Burn” is a warning sign about something dangerous happening. It’s a metaphoric song about being mindful of danger. Deep Purple were possibly hinting about the things that happen in the music industry. The listeners can interpret the song differently. It can be about whatever is going on in your life. What makes a great song is that you can interpret it to mean different things. Deep Purple did that with this song. They thought outside of the box with this track. It’s a hit with fans because of the amazing guitar riffs. The late great Eddie Van Halen picked this song as one of his favorite songs because of the guitar riffs. The guitar riffs are killer and are sure to win fans over.
# 8 – Might Just Take Your Life
We have approached the eighth song on our 10 Biggest Deep Purple Hits list. “Might Just Take Your Life” appears on the Burn album. The single was released in 1974. The song peaked at number 91 on the Billboard Hot 100 charts. The song is about being in control of your own destiny. They tell a story about one man who has found pleasure in the things he has in his life and his ability to control his life. He is determined to make it without being controlled by others. He refuses to give in to anyone trying to challenge him and take over his life. If they do try to take over, he is prepared to take their lives. He is his own man and in charge of his own destiny. He will do anything to keep the life he wants.
“Might Just Take Your Life” is a unique story about a man who wants to live by his own rules. He is willing to do whatever it takes to keep the life has made for himself. It’s a cautionary tale to anyone trying to manipulate him. Deep Purple’s song depicts a story about a man who is confident in himself. Once we become accustomed to a certain life, we will do whatever we can to maintain it. In this case, the man in the story is willing to do the unthinkable to anyone who uproots his life.
We don’t know if we would go that far, but it makes for good storytelling. Fans like this song because it keeps you on the edge of your seat. It makes you question what you would do if someone tried to steal your happiness. The instrumentation on this jam is incredible. The music is engaging and will make you want to stick around to hear the story behind it. Fans will also enjoy the vocals. The band’s harmonies on the song are on point.
# 7 – Black Night
Coming in at number seven is “Black Night.” The non album single was released in 1970 and peaked at number 66 on the Billboard Hot 100 charts. The song is about a man feeling lost and isolated. He is going through challenges in his life. He knows something isn’t right. It gives him a restless feeling. He is hopeful that he will find a sense of purpose in life. He has been going to a dark place mentally and wants to find his way out of it.
“Black Night” is a melancholy song about fighting your demons. It describes the feeling of being lost and not knowing your purpose in life. The song takes an optimistic turn and gives hope that good things could come if you find freedom. This song will resonate with anyone who feels lost and in the dark. Life may be hard if you feel as if you don’t have any direction. Deep Purple captures this feeling effortlessly.
The lyrics may have you thinking about life and where it’s headed. The deep lyrics may stir up emotions inside of you. Fans appreciate this song because it might hit close to home for them. You can listen to this song’s meaning whether you are a long-time fan, casual fan or a new one. The guitar riffs are out of this world. Rock fans will get their musical fix with this song.
# 6 – Knocking at Your Back Door
“Knocking at Your Back Door” is on the Perfect Strangers album. The single was released in 1984. The song peaked at number 61 on the Billboard Hot 100 charts. “Knocking at Your Door” is about two men trying to pursue two women who are unattainable. The women’s names are Lucy and Nancy. Lucy is a dancer who is unattainable. Nancy only talks to aristocrats. The guys love the idea of chasing after women they can’t have. The man and his friends enjoy chasing after people despite the risks involved.
“Knocking at Your Back Door” is a metaphoric song about men chasing after people they can’t have. They enjoy the thrill of the chase regardless of the outcome. This is an interesting story that still happens now. People tend to chase after people they can’t have for one reason or another. Deep Purple describes the excitement of going after someone you can’t have. Half the fun of the chase is getting there. If you have found yourself trying to pursue someone you can’t have, this song is for you.
You don’t have to relate to the lyrics to enjoy the song. The song is enjoyable even if you have gone through this situation. Fans enjoyed the dramatic plot as well as the musicianship of the band. It’s a different subject that will hold your attention. Once again Deep Purple knows how to think outside of the box. The music has the hard rock and metal sound that Deep Purple fans enjoy. This is the jam that influenced other artists over the years.
# 5 – Woman From Tokyo
We’ve reached the halfway point on our 10 Biggest Deep Purple Hits list. “Woman from Tokyo” is featured on the Who Do We Think We Are album. The song came out in 1973. The track peaked at number 60 on the Billboard Hot 100 charts. The song is one of their most popular songs and received massive airplay. It tells the story about a man who is captivated by a “woman from Tokyo.” She makes him have deep feelings in his heart. He is excited every time he sees her. She has had an impact on his life. She makes him see things differently. The woman is good to him. She is a queen as far as he’s concerned. She makes him feel like he’s being carried away. He feels as if he’s not good enough for her.
“Woman from Tokyo” is about a man in love. He expresses his admiration and infatuation with her. The lyrics capture the excitement of a man who is truly in love. It describes the impact a person can have on another person. Deep Purple tried their hands at a love song. This is a chance for the band to show their vulnerable sides. They put a unique spin on a love song. Deep Purple used imagery to tell this story. They didn’t just write a love song. They created a story. Most artists write love songs so it’s not new territory for them. We applaud Deep Purple for their originality. Fans were instantly drawn to this song. It is an energetic song with fantastic guitar riffs. It’s a safe bet that you will be hooked as soon as you hear the first couple of riffs.
# 4 – River Deep – Mountain High
“River Deep-Mountain High” is featured on The Book of Taliesyn album. The song was released in 1968. The song reached number 53 on the Billboard Hot 100 charts. The song is about a man’s love for someone. In the first verse, he reminisces about his childhood. He compares the love he has for the woman in his life to the toy in his life. His love has grown over time for her. He goes into detail about how strong and deep his love is for her. The love he has for her is powerful and flows like a river.
“River Deep -Mountain High” is an emotional song about the power of love. It goes into detail about the type of love he has for the women in his life. Deep Purple covered the song and put their stamp on it. The song is closely linked to Ike and Tina Turner so it could have been a disaster for them to record it too. Deep Purple turns the song into a heavy rock track which makes it different from the Ike & Tina Turner version of it. Deep Purple slows down the verses and comes alive with the chorus of the song the way it’s done in Ike & Tina Turner’s version. The band tries to keep the melody of the song similar to Ike & Tina Turner song. Fans of this song should enjoy this version of it too. It may not make you forget about Ike & Tina Turner’s version as well as any of the other versions, but they do a great job with this cover song.
# 3 – Kentucky Woman
Coming in at number three is “Kentucky Woman” and appears The Book of Taliesyn album. The song reached number 38 on the Billboard Hot 100 charts. The song is about a woman from Kentucky. She has a captivating presence. He can feel the power of her love through her glances. She can make his troubles go away. She accepts his imperfections. It makes everything better. He has a deep connection with her. She wants to know him on another level. She gives him comfort and security when he needs it. She makes him feel like he’s wanted.
“Kentucky Woman” is a poignant love song about the way the woman he loves makes him feel. She had a profound effect on his life. Deep Purple explores the deep connection a man has for the woman in his life. She makes him feel loved and wanted. The song is perfect for fans who are into love songs. The song is relatable to anyone. This song is a hit with fans and is still relevant today. The track is a popular hit among rock fans. The song has everything you are looking for in a rock track. The lyrics are easy to understand. Deep Purple’s instrumentation is sure to bring new fans to this song.
# 2 – Hush
Our runner up is “Hush” from their eponymous album. The song was released in 1968. The song peaked at number four on the Billboard Hot 100 charts. This is the first single by the band. This is a song about a man who is in love with a woman. He will do anything he can for her. If she needs him for anything, he will drop whatever he’s doing to help her. She is a beautiful woman and the best one he’s ever had. There are times when she brings him pain, but he still loves her.
“Hush” is a simple love song about a woman who drives a man crazy, but he loves her with all his heart. He feels like he’s obsessed with her because he can’t stay away from her. She consumes his thoughts. This song is for anyone who believes in love. If you don’t believe in love, it may make you a believer in it. Deep Purple didn’t just focus on the good things about the relationship. They talk about all aspects of love. This is another cover song on our list. Deep Purple did a rock version of Billy Joe Royal’s song. Billy Joe Royal recorded a country version of it. They managed to make this song their own. Anyone who is a fan of Deep Purple has this song in the playlist. If you are a casual listener, you may have heard this song on the radio at one point. The song is a classic and we’re not surprised that it was a hit for the band.
# 1 – Smoke On The Water
The number one song on our 10 Biggest Deep Purple Hits list is “Smoke on the Water” from their Machine Head album. The song was released in 1973 and peaked at number four on the Billboard Hot 100 charts. The song went gold. It’s been picked as one of the greatest songs of all time. The song was also chosen for having one of the greatest guitar riffs of all time. Deep Purple talks about an incident that happened at the Montreux Casino in the early 70s. They talk about Frank Zappa and the Mothers recording on the shore of Lake Geneva. Someone in the crowd set off a flare gun that caused the casino to burn down. They had to find another studio because of it.
“Smoke on the Water” is a dramatic song about a true event in their lives. This song gives fans a chance to find out what happens when we’re not there. It describes a chaotic moment and how music can help you face adversity. Deep Purple recorded a song that captivated fans and kept them interested in the story from beginning to end. Fans appreciate creativity and Deep Purple delivered on that.
It’s a testament to their talent that they were able to take a real life situation like this and turn it into a hit single. Fans were impressed with the band’s instrumentation. The guitar riffs are terrific. They make you want to play air guitar. It also has a memorable chorus that fans can’t help singing with the band. If you listen to rock stations, you may hear this song there. Classics like this one don’t just go away. They will be around forever.
10 Biggest Deep Purple Hits article published on Classic RockHistory.com© 2023
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![Rob De Luca of Spread Eagle, Sebastian Bach & UFO: 10 Albums That Changed My Life From humble East Coast origins to grandest stages worldwide, veteran bassist Rob De Luca has seen and done it all. De Luca first hit the local Boston rock and metal scene in the late 80s after meeting guitarist Paul DiBartolo, bonding over Van Halen before forming Bang. Regional success came quickly, but eventually, the members of Bang went their separate ways, with De Luca and drummer Tommi Gallo heading to NYC and hooking up with Ray West and, later, DiBartolo to form Spread Eagle. By 1990, Spread Eagle was on the fast track, with a contract through MCA Records and a self-titled debut album poised to crush skulls. But poor timing and MCA's sad indifference left Spead Eagle out in the cold despite being a hard-boiled answer to Guns N' Roses's West Coast sleaze. Spread Eagle's first chapter came to an end in '95. As for Rob De Luca, his nimble fingers and gift for melody and songwriting kept him moving forward. Soon, he found a gig with former Skid Row frontman Sebastian Bach and the legendary outfit UFO. And in 2010, after coupling up with Ray West and his cousin Rik De Luca, Spread Eagle retook flight. During a break from Spread Eagle's increasingly busy touring schedule, Rob De Luca dialed in with ClassicRockHistory.com to run through the ten albums that changed his life. But only after adding, "I made a playlist of these songs, including some I've written or co-written. Do you hear any of these albums' influence on me?" Listen here: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/3LWJuhDrE8JmzhsmTeIDUq 10) Gentlemen by Afghan Whigs (1993) Here's an entry that was so important to me. This may be the darkest break-up album of all time. Greg Dulli has been in many projects, but I feel Gentlemen is his zenith. Somewhat undefinable at times but always profound and honest. Listen to "Gentlemen," "Fountain and Fairfax," and "What Jail Is Like." 9) In on the Kill Taker by Fugazi (1993) By this time, I had been sucked in and spit out by the major-label record industry. Glam came and went; grunge was history, too. I was searching for new sounds. When I heard Fugazi's twin guitar approach, I knew this was what was missing. Fugazi may be considered a less polished sound than the albums above; however, once you "get it," it hits you like a ton of bricks, and there's no going back. From the moment I heard Fugazi, I went to every NYC show after. It's easily some of the best concerts of my life, and possibly my favorite bassist in Joe Lally. And their DIY ethics refused to charge us more than $5 a show! In on the Kill Taker is a powerful album demonstrated in songs such as "Smallpox Champion," "Great Cop," and "Public Witness Program." 8) Appetite for Destruction by Guns N' Roses (1987) I discovered many of these albums (sometimes long) after they were released. However, I was at the right place at the right time for this one. Steve Ostromogilsky had a Berklee College of Music lunch card and used to sneak out sandwiches for me. One day, he invited me to hang out at his place and listen to music. As we got off the train, he put Sony Walkman headphones on my ears and said, "Hey, check out this brand-new group." A song like "It's So Easy" was so different from the popular Sunset Strip sound at that time. Me and about 499 other informed rockers were lucky enough to see them on their first East Coast tour at the sold-out Paradise on Commonwealth Avenue, Boston (the same street Aerosmith started on). I saw Gn'R every tour after until I took a break when Buckethead joined. Gn'R is the band I've been lucky enough to see the most times live, almost 100! Everyone on this album is just stellar. Axl [Rose] had the tones, power, melodic sensibilities, and foresight to do what no other singer did then. Slash's playing was beyond memorable. Duff [McKagan] is one of the most underrated bassists in rock history, and learning his Appetite basslines is a masterclass. Steven [Adler] had the natural swing, and Izzy [Stradlin] was the secret weapon songwriter. Everything that's been heralded about this gem is deserved and true. Check out "It's So Easy," "Out Ta Get Me," and "Mr. Brownstone.' 7) Wish You Were Here by Pink Floyd (1975) Another contender for my favorite album and band of all time. Using The Beatles machine (same recording studio, engineer, record label), Pink Floyd made what I feel is their strongest, most cohesive album (my second favorite of theirs would be Animals). This list mainly consists of bands with an instantly recognizable sound. Floyd is certainly no exception to that! This album included a solid handful of undeniable rock radio classics, bookended by two halves of the mind-blowing song "Shine on You Crazy Diamond.' That song was written about former band member and founder Syd Barrett. It would be hard to live in a world without this album. Check out "Welcome to The Machine," "Shine on You Crazy Diamond (parts 6-9),' or even better yet, listen to the whole thing in one sitting! 6) Decade by Neil Young (1977) About this time, I started playing guitar. As a beginner, it was comfortable jamming to this album because the chord changes were simple—a great "first ten years" retrospective of Neil's stunning, unique songwriting. Neil is a treasure who always writes from the heart and stands up for what's right. Check out "Southern Man," "A Man Needs a Maid," "Down by The River," and "After the Goldrush." 5) Highway to Hell by AC/DC (1979) When I heard this album, I was firmly "me." My life would be 100% focused on hard rock music forever. AC/DC are like air; they're ubiquitous. Everyone knows them and their incredible songs. However, as a young teen in Wilmington, Delaware, I only had WMMR 93.3 FM Philadelphia and a few friends to inform me about the world of Rock outside my bedroom. AC/DC had not gone mainstream, and their albums were available primarily in the USA as imports. To put things more in perspective, I only knew two people in the world who had heard of AC/DC. A friend had an import that we played in Steve Buckley's basement, which sounded ripping. When Highway to Hell was released, WMMR started spinning the title track, and I immediately bought the album, listening to it every single day after school. Then WMMR announced AC/DC was coming to the Spectrum in Philly, supporting Ted Nugent! I liked Ted but loved AC/DC, so my good friend Mick Cummins and I bought tickets, and he drove us up to the Spectrum (where we saw most of our concerts). Bon Scott was in fine form, and the band went over great. Although the crowd knew Ted better, Angus [Young] wouldn't let anyone upstage him. I'll never forget it! Unfortunately, Bon would be gone in 6 months. Check out "Walk All Over You," "Touch Too Much," "Shot Down in Flames," and "If You Want Blood (You Got It)." 4) Toys in the Attic by Aerosmith (1975) By the time I heard this, I was now in my teens. I had a childhood friend up the street, Jim Linberg (we're still good buddies). His older sister had a great album collection, including Toys in The Attic. Once I heard that groove, my taste changed. I lost interest in rock music that didn't have some sort of "swing" feel to it. I think Rocks is a slightly better Aerosmith album (and possibly my favorite album of all time), but both are perfect or very close. Check out "Uncle Salty," "Adam's Apple," "No More No More," "Round and Round," and "You See Me Crying." 3) Alive! by Kiss (1975) When I was still a little kid, I asked for Cheech and Chong's Up in Smoke album for Christmas. The entire family came over for an enormous feast, and I dropped the needle. When my mother heard the content, she turned off the album and said I had to exchange it. My mom was cool, but I was young and knew much more about life than she suspected. Anyway, the next day, she drove me back to the store. In the music section, promoted on an "endcap" was a Kiss Alive! display. I had never heard of Kiss, but that cover picture told me I had to have it! My first foray into hard rock. Check out “Strutter.” I went through my Kiss phase very quickly, I believe in a matter of months because I discovered the previous entry, Aerosmith's Toys in the Attic. 2) Honky Chateau by Elton John (1972) When I was a wee lad, my parents bought a used Volkswagen camper van from my uncle Ozzie. My favorite Elton John album is Yellow Brick Road, but Honky Chateau is great and easily one of his best. It sent me down a lifelong rabbit hole of loving everything about the 1970s partnership between Elton and lyricist Bernie Taupin. The simple beauty of voice, the master songwriting, the perfect backing band, the clear, unobtrusive recordings, and always Bernie's incredible lyrics. The day this album was released, Elton became an unstoppable force that conquered the music industry. Check out "Mona Lisas and Mad Hatters" and "Rocket Man." 1) Sergeant Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band by The Beatles (1967) Another tape that was included in the VW Camper. The van had a bunch of music tapes, and one was Sgt Pepper. I was too young to understand the sophistication of the music, but that was one of the many skills of The Beatles. They attracted listeners at every level, even little kids. I still feel that immediate connection to Sgt Pepper; now, I hear so much more. It's an album that changed the world and the world of music. Check out "Lucy in The Sky with Diamonds," "A Day In The Life," and "Fixing a Hole."](http://www.classicrockhistory.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Shutterstock_1815495569-1-300x200.jpg)
