Deep Purple holds a significant place in the annals of rock history, with their influence extending far beyond their own era and into the emergence of the New Wave of British Heavy Metal (NWOBHM) in the late 1970s and early 1980s. As one of the pioneering bands of hard rock and heavy metal, Deep Purple’s impact on the development of the genre cannot be overstated.
Formed in Hertford, England in 1968, Deep Purple quickly garnered attention for their distinctive sound blending elements of classical music, blues, and rock. With their virtuosic musicianship and innovative approach to songwriting, Deep Purple stood out in an era dominated by the psychedelic rock movement.
One of Deep Purple’s enduring legacies is their groundbreaking use of the Hammond organ, played by the legendary Jon Lord. Lord’s classically inspired keyboard work added a unique dimension to the band’s sound, setting them apart from their contemporaries. Songs like “Hush” and “Smoke on the Water” showcased the powerful synergy between Lord’s organ riffs and Ritchie Blackmore’s iconic guitar solos.
Deep Purple’s influence on the NWOBHM can be traced back to their impact on a generation of aspiring musicians who were drawn to the band’s raw energy and technical prowess. Bands like Iron Maiden, Def Leppard, and Saxon cited Deep Purple as a major inspiration, with many musicians emulating Blackmore’s guitar style and Lord’s keyboard techniques.
During the NWOBHM movement, bands sought to revitalize heavy metal by infusing it with a renewed sense of aggression and intensity. Drawing on the blueprint laid out by Deep Purple, these bands pushed the boundaries of the genre, incorporating elements of speed and thrash metal while retaining a melodic edge.
One of the most notable connections between Deep Purple and the NWOBHM was the direct influence they had on Iron Maiden, one of the most successful bands to emerge from the movement. Iron Maiden founder and bassist Steve Harris often spoke about the impact Deep Purple had on his musical development, particularly in terms of songwriting and stage presence.
The spirit of experimentation and innovation that defined Deep Purple’s music served as a guiding principle for many NWOBHM bands, encouraging them to push beyond the boundaries of traditional heavy metal. This willingness to explore new sonic territories helped to define the sound of the era and cemented the legacy of both Deep Purple and the NWOBHM.
In addition to their musical influence, Deep Purple’s dynamic live performances set a new standard for showmanship in rock music. The band’s electrifying stage presence and improvisational jams captivated audiences around the world, earning them a reputation as one of the premier live acts of their time.
As the NWOBHM gained momentum in the early 1980s, bands like Judas Priest and Motorhead further expanded upon the groundwork laid by Deep Purple, blending elements of hard rock and heavy metal to create a more aggressive, high-octane sound. Deep Purple’s enduring influence could be heard in the soaring guitar solos, thunderous drumming, and anthemic choruses that became hallmarks of the NWOBHM sound.
In conclusion, Deep Purple’s impact on the New Wave of British Heavy Metal was profound and lasting, serving as a touchstone for a new generation of musicians seeking to redefine the boundaries of heavy metal. By infusing their music with a sense of innovation and dynamism, Deep Purple helped to shape the evolution of the genre and inspire countless bands to follow in their footsteps.