About the song
“Child In Time,” performed live by Deep Purple in 1970, is a monumental track that stands as one of the band’s most iconic and enduring pieces. Written by the members of Deep Purple, including the talents of Ian Gillan, Ritchie Blackmore, Roger Glover, Jon Lord, and Ian Paice, the song features on their 1970 album “Deep Purple in Rock.”
The song is a masterpiece of rock music, characterized by its haunting lyrics and powerful instrumental segments. Ian Gillan’s extraordinary vocal range is on full display, especially in the song’s intense and emotional screams. Ritchie Blackmore’s guitar work is equally remarkable, delivering a blend of classical and rock influences that create a unique and mesmerizing sound. Jon Lord’s keyboard solos add a rich layer of depth, further enhancing the track’s dramatic atmosphere.
“Child In Time” was a significant part of Deep Purple’s live performances and quickly became a fan favorite. The live version from 1970 captures the raw energy and emotion of the band, offering listeners an authentic experience of their exceptional musicianship and stage presence.
Despite its length, the song received substantial airplay and critical acclaim, securing its place in the annals of rock history. It has been praised not only for its musical complexity but also for its poignant anti-war message, making it a timeless piece that resonates with listeners across generations.
While “Child In Time” did not dominate mainstream charts, its influence and legacy within the rock genre are undeniable. It remains a testament to Deep Purple’s innovative spirit and their ability to push the boundaries of rock music. The song’s live performances, especially from the early 1970s, continue to be celebrated by fans and music historians alike, cementing Deep Purple’s reputation as one of the pioneering bands of hard rock and heavy metal.
Video
Lyrics
Sweet child in time
You’ll see the line
The line that’s drawn between
Good and bad
See the blind man
Shooting at the world
Bullets flying
Oh, taking toll
If you’ve been bad
Oh Lord, I bet you have
And you’ve not been hit
Oh, by a flying lead
You’d better close your eyes
Oh-oh, bow your head
Wait for the ricochet
Ooh-ooh-ooh
Ooh-ooh-ooh
Ooh-ooh-ooh
Ooh-ooh
Ooh-ooh-ooh
Ooh-ooh-ooh
Ooh-ooh-ooh
Ooh-ooh
Ooh-ooh-ooh
Ooh-ooh-ooh
Ooh-ooh-ooh
Oh, I wanna hear you sing
Ooh-ooh-ooh
Ooh-ooh-ooh
Ooh-ooh-ooh
Oh-oh
Ooh-ooh-ooh
Ooh-ooh-ooh
Ooh-ooh-ooh
Ahh-ah-ah
Ahh-ah-ah
Ahh-ah
Sweet child in time
You’ll see the line
The line that’s drawn between
Good and bad
See the blind man
Shooting at the world
Bullets flying
Mmm, taking toll
If you’ve been bad
Lord, I bet you have
And you’ve not been hit
Oh, by a flying lead
You’d better close your eyes
Oh-oh, bow your head
Wait for the ricochet
Ooh-ooh-ooh
Ooh-ooh-ooh
Ooh-ooh-ooh
Ooh-ooh
Ooh-ooh-ooh
Ooh-ooh-ooh
Ooh-ooh-ooh
Ooh-ooh
Ahh-ah-ah
Ahh-ah-ah
Ahh-ah-ah
Oh, I gotta hear you screaming
Ahh-ah-ah
Ahh-ah-ah
Ahh-ah-ah
Oh-oh
Ahh-ah-ah
Ahh-ah-ah
Ahh-ah-ah
Oh
Ahh-ah-ah
Ahh-ah-ah
Ahh-ah-ah
Oh, no
Oh, no
God, oh, no
Oh, no
Oh, ain’t gonna do it
Oh, no
Oh, no, no
Oh
Ohh!
Oh, no