Machine
Machine: A Journey through Music and Controversy
Formation and Early Years
Machine, the British rock band renowned for their hit song "There But For The Grace of God Go I," emerged in 1967 amidst the vibrant music scene of London. Led by charismatic vocalist and guitarist Ian Gillan, the band's initial lineup included Roger Glover (bass), Jon Lord (keyboards), Ritchie Blackmore (guitar), and Ian Paice (drums).
Rise to Fame and Acclaim
With their eclectic blend of hard rock and progressive elements, Machine quickly gained recognition. Their 1972 album "Machine Head" became a critical and commercial triumph, propelling the band to international stardom. The album featured the iconic track "Smoke on the Water," which became an enduring classic.
Challenges and Controversies
Throughout their career, Machine faced numerous challenges. Blackmore's erratic behavior and disagreements with Gillan led to his departure in 1973. The band persevered, however, with Tommy Bolin replacing Blackmore. But tragedy struck in 1976 when Bolin died of a drug overdose, leaving the band devastated.
Other controversies plagued the group. In 1975, they were accused of plagiarizing the melody of "Smoke on the Water" from a song by the band Taurus. The allegations were eventually dropped, but they tarnished Machine's reputation.
Later Years and Legacy
Despite the setbacks, Machine continued to release critically acclaimed albums throughout the 1970s and 1980s. They underwent several lineup changes, with Gillan and Glover remaining the constants. In 1984, the band reunited with Blackmore for a successful comeback tour.
However, tensions between Blackmore and Gillan resurfaced, leading to Blackmore's permanent departure in 1993. Machine disbanded shortly thereafter, but reunited in 1998 for a series of live performances.
Discography
* Machine (1969)
* In Rock (1970)
* Machine Head (1972)
* Who Do We Think We Are (1973)
* Burn (1974)
* Stormbringer (1974)
* Come Taste the Band (1975)
* Long Live Rock 'n' Roll (1976)
* Machine in Time (1978)
* Perfect Strangers (1984)
* Slaves and Masters (1990)
* Machine Mark II (1994)
* Bananas (1997)
Members
Current Lineup:
* Ian Gillan (vocals)
* Roger Glover (bass)
* Jon Lord (keyboards)
* Ian Paice (drums)
Past Members:
* Ritchie Blackmore (guitar)
* Tommy Bolin (guitar)
* David Coverdale (vocals)
* Glenn Hughes (bass)
* Joe Lynn Turner (vocals)
Formation and Early Years
Machine, the British rock band renowned for their hit song "There But For The Grace of God Go I," emerged in 1967 amidst the vibrant music scene of London. Led by charismatic vocalist and guitarist Ian Gillan, the band's initial lineup included Roger Glover (bass), Jon Lord (keyboards), Ritchie Blackmore (guitar), and Ian Paice (drums).
Rise to Fame and Acclaim
With their eclectic blend of hard rock and progressive elements, Machine quickly gained recognition. Their 1972 album "Machine Head" became a critical and commercial triumph, propelling the band to international stardom. The album featured the iconic track "Smoke on the Water," which became an enduring classic.
Challenges and Controversies
Throughout their career, Machine faced numerous challenges. Blackmore's erratic behavior and disagreements with Gillan led to his departure in 1973. The band persevered, however, with Tommy Bolin replacing Blackmore. But tragedy struck in 1976 when Bolin died of a drug overdose, leaving the band devastated.
Other controversies plagued the group. In 1975, they were accused of plagiarizing the melody of "Smoke on the Water" from a song by the band Taurus. The allegations were eventually dropped, but they tarnished Machine's reputation.
Later Years and Legacy
Despite the setbacks, Machine continued to release critically acclaimed albums throughout the 1970s and 1980s. They underwent several lineup changes, with Gillan and Glover remaining the constants. In 1984, the band reunited with Blackmore for a successful comeback tour.
However, tensions between Blackmore and Gillan resurfaced, leading to Blackmore's permanent departure in 1993. Machine disbanded shortly thereafter, but reunited in 1998 for a series of live performances.
Discography
* Machine (1969)
* In Rock (1970)
* Machine Head (1972)
* Who Do We Think We Are (1973)
* Burn (1974)
* Stormbringer (1974)
* Come Taste the Band (1975)
* Long Live Rock 'n' Roll (1976)
* Machine in Time (1978)
* Perfect Strangers (1984)
* Slaves and Masters (1990)
* Machine Mark II (1994)
* Bananas (1997)
Members
Current Lineup:
* Ian Gillan (vocals)
* Roger Glover (bass)
* Jon Lord (keyboards)
* Ian Paice (drums)
Past Members:
* Ritchie Blackmore (guitar)
* Tommy Bolin (guitar)
* David Coverdale (vocals)
* Glenn Hughes (bass)
* Joe Lynn Turner (vocals)