About the song
“Break On Through (To the Other Side)” is a song by the American rock band The Doors. It is the opening track of their self-titled debut album, released in 1967. The song was also issued as the band’s first single, although it did not chart highly upon its initial release.
Background:
- Written primarily by Jim Morrison, with musical contributions from the other band members.
- The lyrics are inspired by Morrison’s interest in philosophy, psychology, and shamanism.
- The song’s title and refrain “Break on through to the other side” are often interpreted as a reference to transcendence, exploring altered states of consciousness, and breaking societal boundaries.
- Musically, the song features a driving rhythm, Robby Krieger’s blues-inspired guitar riff, and John Densmore’s energetic drumming.
Lyrics:
The lyrics are somewhat cryptic and open to interpretation, but some recurring themes and images include:
- Breaking free from constraints and limitations
- Challenging societal norms and expectations
- Exploring the unknown and the unconventional
- Seeking personal liberation and enlightenment
- Confronting fear and embracing the unknown
Themes:
Some of the key themes explored in “Break On Through” are:
- Transcendence: The desire to move beyond the ordinary and reach a higher state of consciousness or being.
- Rebellion: A rejection of conformity and a call to break free from societal constraints.
- Liberation: The pursuit of personal freedom and the expression of individuality.
- Exploration: The urge to venture into the unknown and discover new experiences.
- Self-discovery: The journey to understand oneself and one’s place in the world.
Video
Lyrics
You know the day destroys the nightNight divides the dayTried to runTried to hideBreak on through to the other sideBreak on through to the other sideBreak on through to the other side, yeah
We chased our pleasures hereDug our treasures thereBut can you still recallThe time we criedBreak on through to the other sideBreak on through to the other side
YeahC’mon, yeah
Everybody loves my babyEverybody loves my babyShe get highShe get highShe get highShe get high, yeah
I found an island in your armsCountry in your eyesArms that chain usEyes that lieBreak on through to the other sideBreak on through to the other sideBreak on through, owOh, yeah
Made the sceneWeek to weekDay to dayHour to hourThe gate is straightDeep and wideBreak on through to the other sideBreak on through to the other sideBreak on throughBreak on throughBreak on throughBreak on throughYeah, yeah, yeah, yeahYeah, yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah