This Strum-Along gets a little more complicated than most of my arrangements, but none of the chords is particularly difficult. I did a little fingerstyle interlude after singing through the verse one time, just for a little variety, but if you’re not comfortable with the fingerpicking, just strum through the chords once without singing and get kind of the same effect, then sing it again (if you like).

Deep Purple is a popular song composed by Peter DeRose in 1933 as a piano instrumental. It later gained widespread recognition when lyrics were added in 1938 by Mitchell Parish. The song became a jazz and pop standard, covered by numerous artists over the decades.

Originally, Deep Purple was a flowing, romantic melody written for solo piano. Its rich harmonies and lyrical phrasing made it a favorite among musicians, leading to its adaptation into a vocal version with Parish’s lyrics. The song’s dreamlike quality and evocative lyrics contributed to its lasting popularity.

The song became a major hit in 1939 when bandleader Larry Clinton recorded it with vocalist Bea Wain. It continued to be recorded by various artists, including a notable 1957 version by Billy Ward and His Dominoes. The most famous rendition was recorded in 1963 by Nino Tempo and April Stevens, which won a Grammy Award for Best Rock and Roll Recording.

Deep Purple remains one of the most enduring songs from the early 20th century. Its influence extends beyond jazz and pop, inspiring later adaptations and even lending its name to the British rock band Deep Purple. The song’s timeless melody and romantic lyrics continue to captivate listeners today.

Peter DeRose’s Deep Purple stands as a testament to the power of melody and lyrical storytelling. Its transition from instrumental to vocal standard, along with its continued appeal across generations, highlights its significance in American music history.