Deep Purple
Deep Purple - Smoke On The Water Live at Budokan, Tokyo, Japan
In August 1972, Deep Purple was riding high on the success of their iconic album 'Machine Head,' which had been released just months prior. This live recording of 'Smoke On The Water,' captured at the famed Nippon Budokan in Tokyo, showcases the band at a pivotal moment in their career. Not only was the song a massive hit, but 'Machine Head' solidified Deep Purple’s place in rock history with its legendary riffs and high-energy performances. Interestingly, the song's lyrics directly reference a fire at a casino that disrupted their recording sessions in Switzerland, adding a layer of storytelling to their live performances. This concert was part of a massive tour promoting 'Machine Head,' and exemplified the band's reputation for thrilling live shows, which would later lead to their acclaimed 'Made in Japan' live album.