Smoke On The Water

The iconic song 'Smoke On The Water' by Deep Purple is not just a staple of classic rock music, but it also tells a true story of a chaotic event that the band members witnessed. The lyrics describe the band's experience during the recording of their album 'Machine Head' in Montreux, Switzerland. The opening lines set the scene at the Lake Geneva shoreline, where the band had gone to record with a mobile studio due to the lack of time.

The song's narrative then shifts to a concert by Frank Zappa and the Mothers of Invention at the Montreux Casino. During the show, someone fired a flare gun, which led to a massive fire that destroyed the casino. The 'smoke on the water, fire in the sky' chorus serves as a vivid description of the smoke from the fire spreading over Lake Geneva. The band members, along with other concertgoers, witnessed the casino burn down, an event that clearly left a lasting impression on them.

Despite the disaster, Deep Purple found a new place to record—The Grand Hotel. The lyrics convey a sense of resilience as the band made do with what they had, creating music in a bare and cold environment. The song ends on a reflective note, acknowledging that despite the challenges faced, the experience would never be forgotten. 'Smoke On The Water' is a testament to the band's determination and the enduring power of music, even in the face of adversity.