G5tap to play
Bb5tap to play
C5tap to play
Key
G Major
Difficulty
Beginner
Capo
None
Chords
G5 · Bb5 · C5
The most famous guitar riff in history. Deep Purple’s rock anthem is usually the first thing every guitarist learns. Three power chords and pure attitude.
Strumming Pattern (4/4 Time)
↓↓↑↓↑
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Tip: The main riff uses single notes on the D and G strings, not chords. Play 0-3-5, 0-3-6-5, 0-3-5-3-0. That is the riff that launched a million guitarists.
How to play
Step-by-Step Guide
1
Learn the riff
The iconic riff uses just two strings. It is the first thing most guitarists learn, and for good reason — it sounds awesome immediately.
2
Learn the three power chords
You need G5, Bb5, and C5. Power chords use just two fingers and sound massive.
3
Get the rhythm
The verse uses the riff, the chorus uses power chords strummed with attitude. Keep the rhythm driving and aggressive.
4
Rock out
Turn up the volume, play the riff, and feel like a rock star. This song is pure energy and attitude.
Lyrics & Chords
Full Song — Guitar Version
Verse 1
G5
We all came out to Montreux
Bb5 C5
On the Lake Geneva shoreline
G5
To make records with a mobile
Bb5 C5
We didn’t have much time
Chorus
G5 Bb5 C5
Smoke on the water
G5 Bb5 C5
A fire in the sky
G5 Bb5 C5
Smoke on the water
Practice tip: The riff comes first. Play it 100 times until it is in your muscle memory. Then add the verse chords. The riff IS this song — everything else is built around it.