Deep Purple are an English rock band from London, England, often nicknamed "The World's Loudest Band" after a 1970s Guinness record. Formed in 1968, they helped pioneer hard rock and early heavy metal while also drawing on progressive and blues influences.
The classic Mark II line-up with Ian Gillan, Ritchie Blackmore, Roger Glover, Jon Lord and Ian Paice produced landmark albums such as "Deep Purple in Rock", "Machine Head" and the live set "Made in Japan", following their debut "Shades of Deep Purple". Signature songs including "Smoke on the Water", "Highway Star" and "Burn" became staples of classic rock. After disbanding in 1976, Deep Purple reunited in 1984 and have remained active with various line-ups, continuing to tour and release new music. Their influence has been recognised with honours including induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2016.
