“Smoke on the Water” by Deep Purple is arguably one of the most recognizable and iconic guitar riffs in rock history. For aspiring guitarists, learning to play this riff is often a rite of passage. This guide will provide you with accurate guitar tabs to master this legendary tune and understand what makes it so special.
Breaking Down the “Smoke on the Water” Riff
The main riff of “Smoke on the Water” is famous for its simplicity and power. It’s built around just four notes and a blues scale, making it accessible for beginners while still sounding incredibly impactful. Here are the standard guitar tabs for the iconic riff in E minor pentatonic:
e|---------------------------------------------------|
B|---------------------------------------------------|
G|---------------------------------------------------|
D|--0-3-5---0-3-6-5---0-3-5---3-0-------------------|
A|--0-3-5---0-3-6-5---0-3-5---3-0-------------------|
E|---------------------------------------------------|This tab represents the riff played on the low E string and the A string. Let’s break it down note by note:
- 0: Play the open D string (the 4th thickest string).
- 3: Fret the D string at the 3rd fret.
- 5: Fret the D string at the 5th fret.
- 6: Fret the D string at the 6th fret.
The pattern repeats, creating a memorable and driving rhythm. The slight variation with the ‘6’ instead of ‘5’ on the second repetition adds a touch of bluesy flavour.
Playing the Full Verse Chords
Beyond the riff, “Smoke on the Water” also features simple yet effective verse chords. Here’s a basic chord progression that works well for playing along with the verses:
Verse 1:
Am Am Am Am
We all came out to Montreux
C C G G
On the Lake Geneva shoreline
Am Am Am Am
To make records with a mobile
C C G G
We didn't have much timeThese are basic open chords:
- Am (A minor): x02210
- C (C major): x32010
- G (G major): 320003
You can find numerous online resources and chord diagrams if you’re unsure how to play these chords.
Tips for Mastering “Smoke on the Water”
- Start Slow: Begin practicing the riff very slowly to get the finger positions and timing correct. Gradually increase the tempo as you become more comfortable.
- Focus on Rhythm: The rhythm is crucial to the feel of “Smoke on the Water”. Listen to the original song carefully and try to mimic the timing and groove.
- Use Downstrokes: For a more authentic and powerful sound, try using primarily downstrokes when playing the riff, especially if you are using an electric guitar with distortion.
- Experiment with Tone: The classic “Smoke on the Water” tone is achieved with a slightly overdriven or distorted electric guitar. Experiment with your guitar’s tone knob and amp settings to find a sound you like.
The Story Behind the Song
“Smoke on the Water” is not just a catchy riff; it’s also based on a real-life event. The lyrics tell the story of the 1971 fire at the Montreux Casino in Switzerland, during a Frank Zappa and The Mothers of Invention concert. Deep Purple was in Montreux to record an album using the Rolling Stones Mobile Studio. The “smoke on the water” refers to the smoke from the fire drifting over Lake Geneva. This true story adds another layer of intrigue to this iconic rock anthem.
Conclusion
Learning “Smoke on the Water” guitar tabs is a rewarding experience for any guitarist. Its simple yet powerful riff and memorable story have made it a timeless classic. By practicing the tabs and chords provided, and following the tips, you’ll be playing this iconic riff in no time. Keep practicing and enjoy the journey of learning this legendary song!
