The Very Best of Deep Purple

"The Very Best of Deep Purple" is a compilation album by the British rock band Deep Purple, released in 2000. This album encompasses a collection of songs from their most commercially successful years, 1968 to 1976. This means it covers the period from the original lineup to the final Mark IV lineup featuring Tommy Bolin.

Deep Purple is widely considered one of the foremost heavy metal and hard rock bands of all time. The band, originally formed in Hertford, England, in 1968, also played a significant role in the transition from progressive rock to heavy metal during the 1970s.

"The Very Best of Deep Purple" includes some of their most iconic songs, such as "Smoke on the Water," "Hush," "Child in Time," "Highway Star," and "Woman from Tokyo." These tracks encompass Deep Purple's definitive style, characterized by orchestral and progressive rock elements combined with heavy metal riffs.

During the period these songs were released, Deep Purple went through several lineup changes, with each lineup given a 'Mark' designation. This compilation covers Marks I to IV, making it a comprehensive retrospective of their most successful and influential era.