The Doors are widely regarded as one of the most influential and innovative rock bands of the 1960s. Formed in Los Angeles in 1965, the band consisted of vocalist Jim Morrison, keyboardist Ray Manzarek, guitarist Robby Krieger, and drummer John Densmore. Their unique blend of rock, blues, and psychedelia, combined with Morrison’s poetic lyrics and charismatic stage presence, made them a sensation both in the United States and abroad.
The Doors’ music was characterized by Manzarek’s distinctive organ sound, Krieger’s intricate guitar work, and Densmore’s jazzy rhythms, all of which provided a perfect backdrop for Morrison’s intense vocals and brooding persona. Their songs often explored themes of rebellion, love, and spirituality, and frequently incorporated elements of Eastern philosophy and mythology.
Despite their short-lived career (Morrison died in 1971 at the age of 27), The Doors left an indelible mark on the music world. Their self-titled debut album, released in 1967, contained the hit singles “Break On Through (To the Other Side)” and “Light My Fire,” and is widely regarded as one of the greatest debut albums in rock history. Other classic songs from their catalog include “The End,” “People Are Strange,” and “Riders on the Storm.”
The Doors’ music continues to inspire and influence generations of musicians and fans alike, and their legacy as one of the greatest rock bands of all time remains firmly intact. In this article, we will explore the history of The Doors, their musical legacy, and the impact they had on the music world and popular culture at large.
1. Light My Fire (1967)
“Light My Fire” is a song by The Doors that was released in 1967 as part of their self-titled debut album. The song, which was written by guitarist Robby Krieger, features Jim Morrison’s distinctive vocals and Ray Manzarek’s haunting keyboard solo.
The song’s hypnotic rhythm and catchy melody quickly became a hit, reaching the top of the Billboard charts and earning The Doors their first gold record. It’s known for its memorable opening line, “You know that it would be untrue, you know that I would be a liar, if I was to say to you, girl, we couldn’t get much higher.”
“Light My Fire” is often cited as one of the greatest rock songs of all time and has been covered by numerous artists, including José Feliciano, who had a hit with a version featuring acoustic guitar and Latin percussion. The song’s popularity and enduring influence can be attributed to its mix of psychedelic rock and bluesy rhythms, as well as Morrison’s enigmatic lyrics that seem to allude to both sexual desire and a deeper existential longing.
Overall, “Light My Fire” remains a classic example of The Doors’ unique sound and legacy, and is a must-listen for any fan of classic rock music.
2. LA Woman(1971)
“LA Woman” is a song by The Doors that was released in 1971 as the title track of their final album with Jim Morrison before his death. The song features a driving beat, bluesy guitar riffs by Robby Krieger, and Morrison’s raw and powerful vocals.
The song’s lyrics depict the gritty and seductive atmosphere of Los Angeles, with Morrison describing the city as a “city of night” and a place where he “never felt so alive.” The chorus features the iconic line “Mr. Mojo Risin’,” which is an anagram of Morrison’s name and serves as a nod to his legendary persona as a rock star and poet.
“LA Woman” became one of The Doors’ most popular and enduring songs, and its influence can be heard in countless rock songs that have come since. The song’s infectious energy and rawness capture the spirit of The Doors’ music and cement their legacy as one of the greatest rock bands of all time.
Overall, “LA Woman” is a must-listen for any fan of classic rock music, and its enduring popularity is a testament to the lasting impact of The Doors’ music on popular culture.
3. The End(1967)
“The End” is a song by The Doors that was released in 1967 as part of their debut album. The song is known for its haunting melody, psychedelic sound, and Jim Morrison’s poetic and enigmatic lyrics.
The song’s lyrics are often interpreted as exploring themes of death, rebirth, and sexual awakening, with Morrison’s whispered vocals adding to the sense of mystery and darkness. The song’s instrumental breaks, including Robby Krieger’s guitar solo and Ray Manzarek’s eerie organ sounds, add to the song’s eerie and hypnotic atmosphere.
Despite being one of The Doors’ longest and most complex songs, “The End” quickly became a fan favorite and is now widely regarded as one of the greatest rock songs of all time. Its influence can be heard in the music of countless artists who followed in The Doors’ footsteps, and its legacy as a groundbreaking and influential piece of rock music remains firmly intact.
Overall, “The End” is a must-listen for any fan of classic rock music, and its haunting and provocative sound continues to captivate listeners and inspire new generations of musicians.
4. Riders on the Storm(1971)
“Riders on the Storm” is a song by The Doors that was released in 1971 as part of their final album with Jim Morrison. The song features a driving beat, a haunting piano melody by Ray Manzarek, and Morrison’s signature vocals.
The song’s lyrics paint a vivid picture of a stormy night and a mysterious figure driving through the rain, with Morrison singing about “a killer on the road” and “his brain is squirming like a toad.” The song’s eerie atmosphere is enhanced by Manzarek’s piano and John Densmore’s jazzy rhythms.
“Riders on the Storm” quickly became one of The Doors’ most popular and enduring songs, and its influence can be heard in the music of countless artists who have followed in their footsteps. The song’s haunting melody and Morrison’s poetic lyrics have made it a staple of classic rock radio and a timeless classic of the genre.
Overall, “Riders on the Storm” is a must-listen for any fan of classic rock music, and its atmospheric sound and haunting lyrics continue to captivate listeners and inspire new generations of musicians.
5. Roadhouse Blues(Morrison Hotel,(1970)
“Roadhouse Blues” is a song by The Doors that was released in 1970 as part of their album “Morrison Hotel”. The song features a bluesy guitar riff by Robby Krieger, driving rhythms by John Densmore, and Morrison’s powerful vocals.
The song’s lyrics depict the rowdy atmosphere of a roadhouse bar, with Morrison singing about the patrons drinking and dancing, and the band playing all night long. The song’s chorus, “Keep your eyes on the road, your hands upon the wheel,” has become one of The Doors’ most iconic and recognizable lines.
“Roadhouse Blues” quickly became a fan favorite and a staple of The Doors’ live performances, and its influence can be heard in the music of countless artists who have followed in their footsteps. The song’s bluesy sound and Morrison’s raw and powerful vocals have made it a timeless classic of rock music.
Overall, “Roadhouse Blues” is a must-listen for any fan of classic rock music, and its infectious energy and catchy lyrics continue to captivate listeners and inspire new generations of musicians.
6. Break on Through(The Doors,1967)
“Break on Through” is a song by The Doors that was released in 1967 as part of their debut album. The song features a fast-paced rhythm, bluesy guitar riffs by Robby Krieger, and Jim Morrison’s distinctive vocals.
The song’s lyrics are often interpreted as a call to break free from societal norms and limitations, with Morrison urging listeners to “break on through to the other side.” The song’s energetic sound and rebellious attitude captured the spirit of the 1960s counterculture movement and helped cement The Doors’ place in rock music history.
“Break on Through” quickly became a fan favorite and one of The Doors’ most enduring and influential songs. Its influence can be heard in the music of countless artists who have followed in their footsteps, and its legacy as a groundbreaking and provocative piece of rock music remains firmly intact.
Overall, “Break on Through” is a must-listen for any fan of classic rock music, and its energetic sound and rebellious lyrics continue to inspire and resonate with listeners today.
7. Touch Me(The Soft Parade,1969)
“Touch Me” is a song by The Doors that was released in 1968 as part of their album “The Soft Parade”. The song features a distinctive horn section and a catchy melody, with Jim Morrison’s vocals shifting between spoken word and singing.
The song’s lyrics are often interpreted as exploring themes of sensuality and desire, with Morrison urging his lover to “touch me, babe, can’t you see that I am not afraid?” The song’s use of horns and its catchy chorus make it one of The Doors’ most accessible and radio-friendly songs.
“Touch Me” quickly became a hit single and one of The Doors’ most commercially successful songs. Its influence can be heard in the music of countless artists who have followed in their footsteps, and its legacy as a classic of 1960s rock music remains firmly intact.
Overall, “Touch Me” is a must-listen for any fan of classic rock music, and its infectious melody and provocative lyrics continue to captivate listeners and inspire new generations of musicians.
8. Peace Frog(Morrison Hotel,1970)
“Peace Frog” is a song by The Doors that was released in 1970 as part of their album “Morrison Hotel”. The song features a driving beat, bluesy guitar riffs by Robby Krieger, and Jim Morrison’s distinctive vocals.
The song’s lyrics are often interpreted as a commentary on the state of American society in the late 1960s, with Morrison singing about “blood in the streets” and “police at the station and they don’t look friendly.” The song’s infectious groove and catchy chorus make it one of The Doors’ most memorable and distinctive songs.
“Peace Frog” quickly became a fan favorite and a staple of The Doors’ live performances. Its influence can be heard in the music of countless artists who have followed in their footsteps, and its legacy as a classic of 1970s rock music remains firmly intact.
Overall, “Peace Frog” is a must-listen for any fan of classic rock music, and its potent combination of political commentary and infectious grooves continues to resonate with listeners today.
9. People are Strange(Strange Days,1967)
“People are Strange” is a classic rock song by The Doors that was released in 1967. The song features haunting vocals by Jim Morrison and a psychedelic sound that captures the spirit of the era. The lyrics speak to the feeling of alienation and isolation that many people experience in modern society. The song’s title is a reflection of this sentiment, with the idea that people are strange and difficult to understand. The lyrics touch on themes of loneliness, fear, and the struggle to find one’s place in the world. The haunting melody and Morrison’s distinctive voice combine to create a sense of unease that draws the listener in. “People are Strange” has become a timeless classic that continues to resonate with audiences today, nearly six decades after its initial release.
10. The Crystal Ship(The Doors,1971)
“The Crystal Ship” is a haunting and melancholic ballad by the American rock band The Doors, released in 1967. The song’s title refers to a metaphorical vessel of escape that carries the singer away from the world’s chaos and into a realm of purity and clarity. The lyrics explore the themes of love, loss, and the transience of human existence. The haunting melody, complemented by Ray Manzarek’s mesmerizing keyboard playing, creates a dreamlike atmosphere that transports the listener into a state of introspection. Jim Morrison’s vocals are delicate and subdued, in contrast to his usual energetic style, conveying a sense of vulnerability and introspection. “The Crystal Ship” is considered one of the band’s most poetic and introspective works, and it has become a beloved classic in the rock canon. Its timeless beauty and melancholic grace continue to inspire and move audiences around the world.
11. Love Her Madly (LA Woman,1971)
“Love Her Madly” is a classic rock song by The Doors, released in 1971. The song’s upbeat tempo and catchy melody, driven by Robby Krieger’s guitar riffs and Ray Manzarek’s organ, give it a more commercial sound compared to the band’s earlier, more experimental work. The lyrics, written by Jim Morrison, speak to the idea of unrequited love and the desire to win someone’s affection. The chorus, with the repeated refrain “Don’t you love her madly, don’t you need her badly,” captures the sense of urgency and desperation that can accompany unrequited love. The song’s upbeat tone and catchy melody, however, provide a sense of optimism and hope that make it a classic love song. “Love Her Madly” is considered one of The Doors’ most accessible and commercially successful tracks, and it remains a staple of classic rock radio to this day.
12. The Changeling (LA Woman,1971)
“The Changeling” is a rock song by The Doors, released in 1971. It begins with a funky guitar riff that sets the tone for the song’s upbeat, energetic sound. Jim Morrison’s distinctive vocals are on full display, as he sings the lyrics with his characteristic blend of intensity and passion.
The song’s lyrics are enigmatic and open to interpretation, with references to shapeshifting and transformation. Some interpret the lyrics as a metaphor for the constant changes that occur in life, while others see it as a commentary on societal conformity and the need for individuality.
The instrumentation of the song is particularly notable, with the interplay between the guitar, keyboards, and drums creating a dynamic and driving sound. Ray Manzarek’s keyboard work is especially impressive, with his use of the Fender Rhodes electric piano adding a unique texture to the music.
Overall, “The Changeling” is a standout track in The Doors’ discography, showcasing their creativity and musicianship. It is a must-listen for fans of classic rock and anyone who appreciates great music.
13. Love Me Two Times (Strange Days,1697)
“Love Me Two Times” is a classic rock song by The Doors, released in 1967. It is a fast-paced track with a catchy guitar riff and a driving beat that immediately grabs your attention. The song features Jim Morrison’s signature vocals, which are both haunting and seductive.
The lyrics of the song are somewhat ambiguous, with some suggesting that it is about a man asking for his lover’s affection twice, while others interpret it as a plea for a quick, passionate encounter. The chorus, which repeats the title phrase, is both memorable and irresistible.
Throughout the song, the guitar work of Robby Krieger is particularly impressive, with his riff driving the song forward and adding to its energetic feel. Ray Manzarek’s keyboards are also prominent, adding a layer of complexity to the music.
Overall, “Love Me Two Times” is a timeless classic that showcases the raw power and musical prowess of The Doors. It has been covered by countless artists over the years, but none have been able to capture the same magic as the original. If you’re a fan of classic rock or just great music in general, this song is definitely worth a listen.
14. When The Music’s Over (Strange Days,1967)
“When The Music’s Over” is a haunting and powerful song by the iconic American rock band The Doors. Released on their 1967 album “Strange Days,” the song is a commentary on the social and political upheaval of the era, as well as a meditation on mortality and the impermanence of life.
The song begins with a slow, ominous piano riff that builds in intensity as Jim Morrison’s haunting vocals enter. The lyrics are cryptic and surreal, with Morrison’s voice taking on an almost shamanistic quality as he delivers lines like “What have they done to the earth? / What have they done to our fair sister?”
As the song progresses, the music becomes more frenzied and chaotic, with guitarist Robby Krieger’s soaring solos and drummer John Densmore’s thunderous beats driving the intensity to new heights. Morrison’s vocals become more urgent and impassioned, as he cries out against the injustices of the world and the apathy of those who allow them to continue.
In the song’s climactic moments, the music drops away to a simple, mournful piano melody as Morrison intones the haunting refrain: “We want the world and we want it now.” The song then ends with a series of spoken word passages that are both poetic and prophetic, underscoring the message of the song that time is running out and we must act now to make a better world.
“When The Music’s Over” is a masterful example of The Doors’ unique blend of psychedelic rock, blues, and poetry. It’s a song that still resonates today, with its message of social and environmental justice as relevant now as it was over fifty years ago. It’s a testament to the power of music to inspire change and to provoke thought, and a fitting tribute to one of the greatest rock bands of all time.
15. The Unknown Soldier (Waiting for the Sun,
1968)
“The Unknown Soldier” is a powerful anti-war song written by the iconic American rock band The Doors. Released in 1968, it was a commentary on the Vietnam War, a conflict that was deeply divisive in the United States at the time. The song features Jim Morrison’s distinctive vocals and a haunting melody that captures the sense of loss and tragedy that surrounds war.
The lyrics of “The Unknown Soldier” are both poetic and political, reflecting Morrison’s deep concern for the human toll of war. The song describes a soldier who dies on the battlefield, but whose identity is never known. The soldier becomes a symbol of all those who have been lost to war, and the song implores us to remember their sacrifice and to question the motives behind wars.
The chorus of “The Unknown Soldier” is particularly memorable, featuring the repeated refrain, “Break on through to the other side.” This phrase has become a kind of rallying cry for those who seek to challenge authority and fight against injustice. The song is also notable for its use of sound effects, including the sounds of gunfire and helicopters, which help to create a vivid sense of the chaos and horror of war.
“The Unknown Soldier” remains a powerful and relevant song today, as the world continues to grapple with the devastating impact of war. Its message of peace and compassion is as important now as it was when it was first released over 50 years ago.
16. Strange Days (1967)
“Strange Days” is a haunting and introspective song by the legendary American rock band, The Doors. Released in 1967 as the title track of their second album, the song showcases Jim Morrison’s iconic vocals and Ray Manzarek’s hypnotic organ playing. The song is a reflection on the turbulent times of the 1960s, a decade marked by social upheaval, political unrest, and a growing sense of disillusionment.
The lyrics of “Strange Days” capture the sense of confusion and uncertainty that defined the era, with Morrison singing about “strange days indeed” and a world that is “unfamiliar and undefined.” The song’s chorus is particularly memorable, with Morrison repeating the phrase, “Strange days have found us,” as if to suggest that the upheaval of the time had somehow caught society off guard.
Musically, “Strange Days” is notable for its haunting organ riff, which gives the song a sense of foreboding and unease. The song’s dark and introspective lyrics, combined with its hypnotic melody, create a sense of tension that builds throughout the song.
Despite being over 50 years old, “Strange Days” remains a timeless classic, with its message of uncertainty and confusion still resonating with listeners today. Its haunting melody and introspective lyrics serve as a reminder of the power of music to capture the zeitgeist of an era and to give voice to the hopes and fears of a generation.
17. Hello, I Love You (Waiting for the
Sun,1968)
“Hello, I Love You” is a classic rock song by The Doors, released in 1968. The song starts with a catchy guitar riff and Jim Morrison’s distinct vocals singing the title line. The lyrics are simple but effective, conveying a message of love at first sight. The melody is upbeat and has a psychedelic feel, with swirling organ and hypnotic drums adding to the overall effect. The chorus is memorable and easy to sing along to, making it a popular song for fans of classic rock. “Hello, I Love You” is a timeless love song that captures the excitement and joy of falling in love, and its catchy melody and simple lyrics have ensured its popularity for generations to come.
18. Waiting For the Sun (Morrison Hotel,1970)
“Waiting for the Sun” is a captivating and melancholic song that speaks to the heart of anyone who has ever waited for something they cannot control. With haunting vocals and a stripped-down instrumental arrangement, the song captures the feeling of longing and anticipation that comes with waiting for a new day to dawn. It is a beautiful meditation on the passage of time and the fragility of hope, with lyrics that evoke a sense of both resignation and quiet determination. Whether you are waiting for a new love to come into your life, for a difficult situation to resolve itself, or simply for the sun to rise on a new day, “Waiting for the Sun” is a powerful and poignant reminder that sometimes the most important thing we can do is simply hold on and keep waiting.
19. Alabama Song (Whisky Bar,1967)
“Alabama Song” is a classic tune that has been covered by many artists throughout the years. Originally written as a poem by German playwright Bertolt Brecht, the song was set to music by composer Kurt Weill and first performed in the 1920s. With its jazzy, cabaret-style melody and provocative lyrics, “Alabama Song” captures the rebellious spirit of its time, exploring themes of freedom, escapism, and the search for meaning in a rapidly changing world. The song’s memorable refrain, “Show me the way to the next whisky bar,” has become a cultural touchstone, symbolizing both the desire to escape the constraints of everyday life and the quest for deeper truths that lie beyond our immediate surroundings. With its catchy melody and bold lyrics, “Alabama Song” remains a beloved classic that continues to inspire and provoke audiences around the world.
20. Moonlight Drive (Strange Days,1967)
Moonlight Drive is a haunting and atmospheric song that was originally recorded by the legendary rock band The Doors. Released in 1967, the song features the distinctive vocals of Jim Morrison, backed by the band’s signature organ and guitar sounds.
The song begins with a slow and melancholic melody that sets the tone for the lyrics, which are full of imagery and poetry. Morrison sings about driving through the night, with the moonlight shining down on the road, creating a dreamlike atmosphere. The lyrics describe a sense of longing and a desire for escape, as Morrison sings about wanting to leave behind the world and all its troubles.
As the song progresses, the tempo picks up and the band’s instrumentation becomes more intense, adding to the sense of urgency and passion in the lyrics. Morrison’s vocals become more raw and emotional, as he sings about the beauty and mystery of the night, and the freedom that comes with being on the open road.
Overall, Moonlight Drive is a classic rock song that captures the mood and spirit of the 1960s. With its poetic lyrics, haunting melody, and powerful vocals, it remains a timeless classic that continues to inspire and captivate listeners today.
April Johnson is a frequent contributor to Singers Room. Since 2005, Singersroom has been the voice of R&B around the world. Connect with us via social media below.
