Deep Purple, one of the pioneers of hard rock and heavy metal, has left an indelible mark on the world of music.

The song Highway Star is a testament to their legacy and continues to captivate audiences around the globe.

In this article, we will delve into the history of this timeless classic, its author, inspiration, creation date, chart positions, and its inclusion in movie soundtracks.

The Pioneers of Rock

Deep Purple, formed in Hertford, England, in 1968, has been instrumental in shaping the hard rock and heavy metal genres.

The band unique sound is characterized by virtuosic guitar and keyboard solos, powerful vocals, and unforgettable riffs.

The band’s lineup has evolved over the years, but one constant has been their commitment to pushing the boundaries of rock music.

The Timeless Classic

Highway Star is one of Deep Purple’s most recognizable songs. It was written by the band’s iconic guitarist Ritchie Blackmore, along with vocalist Ian Gillan, keyboardist Jon Lord, bassist Roger Glover, and drummer Ian Paice. The song was released on their seminal album Machine Head in 1972.

Inspiration behind the song

The inspiration for Highway Star came from the band’s experiences on the road. The song’s lyrics celebrate the excitement and adrenaline rush of touring, capturing the essence of life as a rock ‘n’ roll band on the move. The driving rhythm and electrifying guitar work perfectly complement the theme of a fast-paced journey.

Creation Date and Chart Positions

Highway Star was created during the recording sessions for Machine Head and became an instant hit. It reached chart success in several countries, solidifying Deep Purple’s place in the pantheon of rock and roll. The song’s high-energy performance and memorable guitar solos continue to make it a favorite among rock enthusiasts.

Incorporation into Movie Soundtracks

Highway Star has made appearances in various movie soundtracks over the years, contributing to the film world’s excitement. Notable films that have featured Highway Star in their soundtracks include:

1. Almost Famous (2000) – The film incorporates Highway Star into a scene that perfectly captures the spirit of rock ‘n’ roll.
2. A Knight’s Tale (2001) – The song is used in a memorable jousting scene, adding an extra layer of energy to the film.
3. Days of Thunder (1990) – Tom Cruise’s character listens to Highway Star while preparing for a high-speed race, enhancing the film’s intensity.

Deep Purple’s Highway Star is a rock anthem that has stood the test of time. Written by the legendary Ritchie Blackmore and capturing the essence of life on the road, the song continues to enthrall audiences with its electrifying energy and virtuosic performances. Its presence in various movie soundtracks only underscores the enduring appeal of this iconic track.

Machine Head

The Classic Album by Deep Purple

Creation Date: Machine Head is Deep Purple’s sixth studio album, released on March 25, 1972.

Recording Studio: The album was recorded at the Montreux Casino recording studio in Montreux, Switzerland, in December 1971, although part of the recording was relocated to a mobile studio in a nearby hotel corridor after a fire at the casino.

Album Description:

Machine Head is considered one of the most iconic albums in rock history. It is a masterpiece of hard rock and heavy metal that solidified Deep Purple’s position as one of the most influential bands in the genre. The album is known for its energy, impressive musical virtuosity, and songs that have become timeless classics.

Tracklist:

1. Highway Star – 6:07
2. Maybe I’m a Leo – 4:51
3. Pictures of Home – 5:03
4. Never Before – 3:56
5. Smoke on the Water – 5:40
6. Lazy – 7:19
7. Space Truckin’ – 4:31

Each song on Machine Head has its own style and contributes to the album’s diversity. Some of the standout songs include:

• Highway Star: The opening track, it’s an ode to speed and the thrill of driving, capturing the essence of a road trip.
• Smoke on the Water: Perhaps one of the most recognizable rock riffs in history, this song tells the story of a real-life incident involving a fire at the Montreux Casino during a Frank Zappa concert.

Machine Head continues to be celebrated for its impact on the world of rock music, and its songs remain classics that resonate with audiences to this day.

Highway Star Lyric

Nobody gonna take my car
I’m gonna race it to the ground
Nobody gonna beat my car
It’s gonna break the speed of sound
Ooh, it’s a killing machine
It’s got everything
Like a driving power
Big fat tires and everything

I love it and I need it
I bleed it
Yeah, it’s a wild hurricane
Alright, hold tight
I’m a highway star

Nobody gonna take my girl
I’m gonna keep her to the end
Nobody gonna have my girl
She stays close on every bend
Ooh, she’s a killing machine
She got everything
Like a moving mouth
Body control and everything

I love her, I need her, I seed her
Yeah, she turns me on
Alright, hold on tight
I’m a highway star

Nobody gonna take my head
I got speed inside my brain
Nobody gonna steal my head
Now that I’m on the road again
Ooh, I’m in heaven again
I’ve got everything
Like a moving ground
An open road and everything

I love it and I need it, I seed it
Eight cylinders all mine
Alright, hold on tight
I’m a highway star

Nobody gonna take my car
I’m gonna race it to the ground
Nobody gonna beat my car
It’s gonna break the speed of sound
Ooh, it’s a killing machine
It’s got everything
Like a driving power
Big fat tires and everything

I love it and I need it, I bleed it
Yeah, it’s a mad hurricane
Alright, hold on tight
I’m a highway star
I’m a highway star
I’m a highway star

Source: LyricFind

Songwriters: Ian Gillan / Ian Paice / Jon Lord / Ritchie Blackmore / Roger Glover