Inspired by a Dec. 4, 1971 blaze at Montreux, “Smoke on the Water” nearly missed being included on Deep Purple’s ‘Machine Head.’ Roger Glover explains.

After eight years between releases, Roger Glover says “we can’t wait that long.”

Roger Glover has, over his storied career, worked with a number of legends — from Ritchie Blackmore and David Coverdale to Jon Lord and Ian Gillan. None perhaps touched him like Ronnie James Dio. You May Also Like: How Deep Purple’s ‘Smoke on the Water’ ‘almost got left off theRead More

Detailing almost the precise moment that Ritchie Blackmore began his transition toward ren-faire rock, this 1995 Rainbow performance for Germany’s Rockpalast isn’t by any means essential — but it sure is interesting. You May Also Like: Moody and mystical, Ritchie Blackmore’s Rainbow debut launched medieval metal Ian Gillan expounds onRead More

When Deep Purple released Now What?! earlier this year, it represented more for frontman Ian Gillan than the group’s first new music in eight years. It was a shot in the arm for the franchise. You May Also Like: Ian Gillan on the differences between solo and Deep Purple songs:Read More

Ian Gillan, fresh off a triumphal return in Now What?! with Deep Purple, looks back at his lengthy career — beginning with his very first appearance with the band. You May Also Like: Ian Gillan on the differences between solo and Deep Purple songs: ‘I’d find something a little moreRead More

Those patiently waiting for new Deep Purple are about to get a double-shot of fresh sounds, as the group releases a pair of songs simultaneously — “Hell to Pay” and “All the Time in the World.” Check out a lyric video for the latter here. You May Also Like: HowRead More