Deep Purple Mark 3 Performing “burn” At California Jam 1974 – Iconic Show For 400,000+ Fans

Deep Purple’s performance of “Burn” at the California Jam in 1974 is a landmark moment in rock history. This concert, held on April 6, 1974, at the Ontario Motor Speedway in California, showcased the Mark III lineup of the band, which included David Coverdale on vocals, Ritchie Blackmore on guitar, Glenn Hughes on bass and vocals, Jon Lord on keyboards, and Ian Paice on drums.

The California Jam was one of the largest rock festivals of its time, with attendance estimates ranging from 200,000 to 400,000 people. Deep Purple was one of the headline acts, and their performance was broadcast live on ABC-TV, making it one of the first music concerts to be aired on television and later released on videotape and DVD. The concert’s scale and the live broadcast added to the event’s legendary status, cementing Deep Purple’s reputation as a powerhouse of rock music.

The song “Burn” itself, released as the title track of their 1974 album, represents a shift in Deep Purple’s musical direction with the introduction of Coverdale and Hughes. The track is known for its high-energy riffs, dynamic interplay between guitar and keyboards, and powerful vocals. This lineup’s debut album, “Burn,” was well-received and showcased a fresh sound that blended hard rock with blues influences, a departure from the Mark II lineup’s style.

During the California Jam performance, the band faced several logistical and technical challenges. Originally scheduled to go on stage at sunset, they were asked to perform earlier, which led to tensions, particularly with Blackmore, who insisted on the original timing to make use of stage lighting. This delay added to the drama of their performance, contributing to the high-energy and somewhat chaotic atmosphere on stage.

One of the most memorable moments of their set was Blackmore’s on-stage antics. Frustrated by a cameraman’s close proximity, Blackmore attacked the camera, creating a spectacle that only added to the intensity of their performance. The show concluded with a dramatic and somewhat dangerous pyrotechnic display, where excessive explosions caused minor burns to some band members and crew but added to the legendary status of the performance.

Despite these challenges, Deep Purple’s performance at the California Jam is often remembered as one of their finest live shows. The setlist included other classics like “Smoke on the Water,” “Mistreated,” and “Space Truckin’,” but “Burn” stood out as a highlight. The concert not only solidified Deep Purple’s status in the rock world but also highlighted the chemistry and talent of the Mark III lineup.

David Coverdale, relatively unknown before joining Deep Purple, proved his worth with a commanding stage presence and powerful vocals. Glenn Hughes, with his distinctive voice and bass playing, complemented Coverdale perfectly, adding a new dimension to the band’s sound. This period in Deep Purple’s history is often seen as a time of rejuvenation and innovation, leading to increased popularity and critical acclaim.

The performance at California Jam has since been released in various formats, including the 2005 DVD “Live in California 74” and the album “California Jamming.” These releases have allowed new generations of fans to experience the raw energy and excitement of Deep Purple’s iconic performance.