The Doors, fronted by the enigmatic Jim Morrison, became one of the most iconic and controversial rock bands of the 1960s. Known for their psychedelic rock and blues-influenced sound, their hits include "Light My Fire” "Riders on the Storm” and "Break On Through (To the Other Side)”. Their dark, poetic lyrics and Morrison's charismatic stage presence defined an era. Following Morrison's death in 1971, the band disbanded shortly after, but their music continues to inspire and resonate with new audiences.
The Doors Career Highlights
1965:
The Doors were formed in Los Angeles, California by Jim Morrison and Ray Manzarek. Later joined by Robby Krieger and John Densmore.
1966:
The band started playing at the London Fog and then the Whisky a Go Go on the Sunset Strip.
1967:
Debut Album - Released their self-titled debut album, "The Doors” featuring the hit single "Light My Fire."
Breakthrough - "Light My Fire" reaches number one on the Billboard Hot 100 chart.
1968:
Released "Strange Days” featuring hits like "People Are Strange" and "Love Me Two Times."
Third Album - Released "Waiting for the Sun” which includes the hit "Hello, I Love You."
1969:
Fourth Album - Released "The Soft Parade” notable for its extensive use of brass and string arrangements.
Controversy - Morrison is arrested on stage in Miami, charged with lewd and lascivious behavior.
1970:
Fifth Album - Released "Morrison Hotel” a return to their blues-rock roots.
Live Album - Released "Absolutely Live” featuring live performances.
1971:
Final Album with Morrison - Released "L.A. Woman” which includes the hits "Riders on the Storm" and "Love Her Madly."
Morrison's Death - Jim Morrison dies in Paris on July 3, 1971, at the age of 27.
1971-1973:
Post-Morrison - The band released two more albums, "Other Voices" and "Full Circle” but failed to achieve the same success.
1978:
Released "An American Prayer” featuring Morrison's spoken word poetry set to music by the remaining members.
The Doors Members
Jim Morrison – Lead Vocals
Ray Manzarek – Keyboards
Robby Krieger – Guitar
John Densmore – Drums
The Doors Grammy Awards
The Doors have been posthumously honored with a Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award (2007) but did not win any competitive Grammy Awards during their active years.
3 Most Famous Songs by The Doors
1. "Light My Fire" (1967) - A quintessential psychedelic rock anthem that topped the charts and solidified The Doors' place in rock history.
2. "Riders on the Storm" (1971) - A haunting, atmospheric track from their final album with Morrison
3. "Break on Through (To the Other Side)" (1967) - The band’s debut single that showcases their signature sound and Morrison’s intense vocal delivery.
Quotes by The Doors
Jim Morrison
There are things known and things unknown and in between are the doors.
Ray Manzarek
The Doors were successful because they were the best band in the world. But we were also lucky.
The Doors Scandal/Gossip/Trivia
- Miami Incident: Jim Morrison's 1969 Miami arrest led to widespread controversy and significantly impacted the band’s public image.
- Morrison’s Death: Jim Morrison’s mysterious death in Paris at the age of 27 has spawned numerous conspiracy theories and remains a topic of intrigue.
The Doors Legacy
- Despite their short career, The Doors have left an indelible mark on rock music, influencing countless artists and being inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1993.
- Post-Morrison Albums: The remaining members attempted to continue without Morrison, releasing "Other Voices" and "Full Circle” but the albums were not well-received, and the band eventually disbanded.
- Posthumously, they have been recognized with a Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award and their music remains a staple of classic rock radio. The Doors' influence extends far beyond their brief career, leaving a lasting impact on rock music and popular culture.
The Doors ratings
