ROCK MOMENT – Deep Purple ‘Hush’
Deep Purple’s ‘Hush’ occupies a unique place in the band’s history, serving as both their breakthrough hit and a snapshot of a group still discovering its identity. Released in 1968, ‘Hush’ appeared on the band’s debut album, Shades of Deep Purple, and helped introduce the British group to a global audience at a time when rock music was rapidly evolving.
Unlike many Deep Purple classics that followed, ‘Hush’ was not an original composition by the band. The song was written by American songwriter Joe South, who first recorded it in 1967. Deep Purple’s version emerged when the band, then fronted by vocalist Rod Evans and featuring guitarist Ritchie Blackmore, keyboardist Jon Lord, bassist Nick Simper, and drummer Ian Paice, was searching for material that could break them into the U.S. market. Their management believed a strong single was essential, and ‘Hush,’ with its catchy hook and soulful structure, fit the bill.
The recording of ‘Hush’ took place during the Shades of Deep Purple sessions, with Jon Lord’s distinctive Hammond organ playing a central role. Lord’s swirling, percussive keyboard lines gave the song a heavier, more psychedelic edge than Joe South’s original version, helping distinguish it from contemporary pop-rock singles. Ritchie Blackmore’s guitar work, though relatively restrained by his later standards, added sharp rhythmic accents, while Ian Paice’s crisp drumming kept the track driving forward. The band recorded the song quickly, reflecting both limited studio time and their desire to capture an energetic, live feel.
Upon its release, ‘Hush’ became a surprise hit, particularly in the United States, where it climbed into the Top 5 on the Billboard Hot 100. The success of the single brought Deep Purple sudden fame and intense touring demands, especially across North America. Ironically, the song’s polished, radio-friendly sound differed from the heavier, classically influenced hard rock direction the band would soon pursue.
Over time, ‘Hush’ has remained a staple of Deep Purple’s legacy, frequently revisited in live performances—even by later lineups with different singers. While it may not fully represent the sound that would define Deep Purple in the 1970s, ‘Hush’ stands as the song that opened the door, proving the band’s versatility and laying the groundwork for one of hard rock’s most influential careers.
