Let´s Clear the Smoke: Fifty Years of Smoke on the Water in Music Education

• In December 1971, the British rock band Deep Purple recorded Smoke on the Water, which became a global hit and significantly contributed to the band’s popularity. This study aims to investigate the reasons behind the song’s success, such as its inherent values, composition, lyrics, or music production design, as well as other potential explanations. We also study Smoke on the Water’s impact on music education. We interviewed music teachers, producers, students, and musicians from different countries to accomplish this. The study also relies on insights from interviews with Deep Purple members, observations made during concerts and study visits, and external sources. The study finds its theoretical basis in cultural psychology, education, economics, sociology, and musicology theories. The findings highlight the significance of understanding the fundamental elements of a song, which aspiring artists, musicians, and music producers should consider if they want to reach a broader audience.

Subject headings

HUMANIORA  -- Konst -- Musik (hsv//swe)

HUMANITIES  -- Arts -- Music (hsv//eng)

SAMHÄLLSVETENSKAP  -- Utbildningsvetenskap -- Pedagogik (hsv//swe)

SOCIAL SCIENCES  -- Educational Sciences -- Pedagogy (hsv//eng)

NATURVETENSKAP  -- Data- och informationsvetenskap -- Medieteknik (hsv//swe)

NATURAL SCIENCES  -- Computer and Information Sciences -- Media and Communication Technology (hsv//eng)

SAMHÄLLSVETENSKAP  -- Ekonomi och näringsliv -- Företagsekonomi (hsv//swe)

SOCIAL SCIENCES  -- Economics and Business -- Business Administration (hsv//eng)

Keyword

higher education

mobile recording

music education

music industry

music production

Smoke on the Water

Publication and Content Type

ref (subject category)

kon (subject category)