1970 “Deep Purple” Was 110% Pure Talent Simply Amazing (Speed King – Live)

“Speed King” by Deep Purple is a quintessential hard rock track from their 1970 album “Deep Purple in Rock”. The song is notable for its explosive energy, characterized by Ritchie Blackmore’s intense guitar riffs, Ian Paice’s driving drums, and Ian Gillan’s powerful vocals. This song stands out as one of the early influences on the development of heavy metal, showcasing the band’s blend of raw power and technical prowess.

The origins of “Speed King” trace back to the band’s rehearsals at the Hanwell Community Centre in London, where they developed the track from a riff by bassist Roger Glover. Initially titled “Kneel and Pray,” it quickly became a staple in their live performances before being recorded for the album. The recording process was marked by the band’s commitment to capturing their live sound’s intensity, which was achieved with the help of engineer Martin Birch.

Lyrically, “Speed King” is a homage to early rock ‘n’ roll, with Gillan borrowing phrases from classic songs by Little Richard and other pioneers of the genre. The lyrics celebrate the thrill and adrenaline of speed, both metaphorically in terms of musical tempo and the excitement of rock ‘n’ roll lifestyle. This thematic focus on speed and energy mirrors the musical arrangement’s relentless pace and dynamic shifts.

The song opens with a chaotic instrumental section known as “Woffle” before launching into the main riff, setting the tone for the high-octane performance that follows. Blackmore’s guitar work on “Speed King” is particularly notable, featuring rapid-fire solos and bluesy licks that highlight his versatility and skill. The band’s tight interplay and the song’s structured yet wild composition exemplify Deep Purple’s musical chemistry and innovation.

“Speed King” was a significant track for Deep Purple, marking a shift towards a heavier sound that would define their music in the 1970s. The song’s influence extended beyond the band, inspiring many future heavy metal and hard rock artists. Saxon, a band from the New Wave of British Heavy Metal (NWOBHM) movement, even covered “Speed King” on their “Inspirations” album, citing its impact on their musical direction.

Deep Purple’s lineup at the time included the iconic Mark II formation with Ritchie Blackmore on guitar, Ian Gillan on vocals, Roger Glover on bass, Jon Lord on keyboards, and Ian Paice on drums. This lineup is often credited with producing some of the band’s most enduring work, including “Speed King,” which remains a fan favorite and a staple in their live shows.

The song’s enduring appeal lies in its combination of high energy, technical brilliance, and homage to rock’s roots, making “Speed King” not just a highlight of Deep Purple’s discography but also a landmark in rock history.