About the song
Released on April 19, 1971, “L.A. Woman” by Jim Morrison and his band, The Doors, is a defining track from their final studio album of the same name. This song marks a pivotal moment in the band’s career and serves as a testament to Morrison’s distinctive voice and lyrical prowess, encapsulating the essence of his artistic vision.
“L.A. Woman” is notable for its gritty, bluesy sound, which reflects the musical shift that The Doors embraced towards the end of their career. The song is a powerful homage to the city of Los Angeles, capturing its vibrant and sometimes dark essence. Morrison’s lyrics convey a deep sense of longing and exploration, painting a vivid picture of both the allure and the complications of urban life. The song’s evocative narrative immerses the listener in the atmosphere of Los Angeles, portraying the city as both a paradise and a labyrinth of personal struggle.
Musically, “L.A. Woman” features a raw and hypnotic rhythm that deviates from the band’s earlier, more psychedelic sound. The track is driven by a blues-influenced groove, highlighted by Robby Krieger’s resonant guitar riffs, Ray Manzarek’s steady keyboard lines, and John Densmore’s solid drumming. This combination creates a powerful backdrop for Morrison’s commanding vocals, which are imbued with a sense of urgency and intensity. The song’s production, overseen by the band alongside Paul McCartney, embraces a more straightforward rock approach, emphasizing the band’s adaptability and enduring creativity.
The impact of “L.A. Woman” on both The Doors’ legacy and the broader music landscape is significant. The song reached number 9 on the Billboard Hot 100, marking a high point for the band during a period of transformation. Its success demonstrated The Doors’ ability to evolve their sound while retaining their core identity. The track remains a quintessential example of Morrison’s lyrical and vocal abilities, cementing his status as a rock icon. The song’s gritty portrayal of Los Angeles and its bluesy undertones have influenced countless artists and continue to resonate with fans and critics alike.
Socially, “L.A. Woman” reflects the early 1970s cultural zeitgeist, a period marked by a growing sense of disillusionment and a search for authenticity. The song’s exploration of urban themes and its raw musical style align with the era’s shifting attitudes towards rock music, which was increasingly embracing more diverse and experimental influences. Morrison’s depiction of Los Angeles as a complex and multifaceted city captures the spirit of the time, highlighting the ongoing tension between idealism and reality.
In summary, Jim Morrison’s “L.A. Woman”, released in 1971 as part of The Doors’ album of the same name, stands as a powerful rock anthem that showcases Morrison’s deep connection to both the city and the genre. With its bluesy sound, evocative lyrics, and influential production, the song remains a key part of The Doors’ legacy and a significant reflection of the early 1970s rock scene.
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Lyrics
Well, I just got into town about an hour agoTook a look around, see which way the wind blowWhere the little girls in their Hollywood bungalowsAre you a lucky little lady in the city of lightOr just another lost angel, city of nightCity of night, city of night, city of night, woo, come onL.A. woman, L.A. womanL.A. woman Sunday afternoonL.A. woman Sunday afternoonL.A. woman Sunday afternoonDrive through your suburbsInto your blues, into your blues, yeahInto your blue-blue bluesInto your blues, oh, yeahI see your hair is burnin’Hills are filled with fireIf they say I never loved youYou know they are a liarDrivin’ down your freewaysMidnight alleys roamCops in cars, the topless barsNever saw a womanSo alone, so aloneSo alone, so aloneMotel money murder madnessLet’s change the mood from glad to sadnessMister mojo risin’, mister mojo risin’Mister mojo risin’, mister mojo risin’Got to keep on risin’Mister mojo risin’, mister mojo risin’Mojo risin’, gotta mojo risin’Mister mojo risin’, gotta keep on risin’Risin’, risin’Gone risin’, risin’I’m gone risin’, risin’I gotta risin’, risin’Well, risin’, risin’I gotta, wooo, yeah, risin’Woah, ohh yeahWell, I just got into town about an hour agoTook a look around, see which way the wind blowWhere the little girls in their Hollywood bungalowsAre you a lucky little lady in the city of lightOr just another lost angel, city of nightCity of night, city of night, city of night, whoa, come onL.A. woman, L.A. womanL.A. woman, you’re my womanLittle L.A. woman, little L.A. womanL.A. L.A. woman womanL.A. woman, come on