Deep Purple

Deep Purple is a pioneering English rock band formed in London in 1968, widely regarded as architects of hard rock and heavy metal. The group reached its commercial and creative peak in the early 1970s with their "Mark II" lineup—featuring Ian Gillan, Ritchie Blackmore, Roger Glover, Jon Lord, and Ian Paice, producing definitive albums like Machine Head and the iconic anthem "Smoke on the Water." Despite numerous personnel changes and a hiatus between 1976 and 1984, the band has maintained a prolific career for over five decades, selling more than 100 million albums worldwide. Inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2016, Deep Purple continues to record and tour as of 2026, with original drummer Ian Paice remaining the sole constant member throughout the band's influential history.