Jim Morrison – People Are Strange

About the song

“People Are Strange” by Jim Morrison is one of the most hauntingly beautiful tracks from the iconic band The Doors. Released in 1967, this song is featured on their second studio album, “Strange Days”. The track showcases Morrison’s poetic lyricism and the band’s unique sound, which combines rock, blues, and psychedelic influences.

The song’s lyrics delve into themes of alienation and introspection. Written by Morrison and co-songwriter Robby Krieger, “People Are Strange” reflects a sense of disconnection and the feeling of being an outsider. The lyrics poignantly capture the experience of feeling estranged from society and the inherent strangeness of human interactions. Morrison’s evocative and somewhat somber vocal delivery adds a layer of melancholy that underscores the song’s exploration of social alienation and personal reflection.

Musically, “People Are Strange” is characterized by its eerie, almost surreal quality. The track features a haunting organ line played by Ray Manzarek, complemented by a moody guitar riff and a steady rhythm section. The production, with its minor key tonality and echoing effects, creates a sense of disorientation and dreamlike atmosphere that enhances the lyrical content. This soundscape is quintessentially representative of The Doors’ style, blending elements of rock with a psychedelic edge.

The impact of “People Are Strange” is notable in several ways. As part of “Strange Days”, the song contributed to the album’s reputation as a cornerstone of psychedelic rock. The track’s exploration of themes such as alienation and existential angst resonated with the countercultural movements of the late 1960s, a time when social norms and expectations were being widely questioned. The song’s ability to capture the mood of an era marked by significant social and political upheaval is a testament to Morrison’s lyrical insight and the band’s innovative approach to music.

“People Are Strange” has left a lasting legacy in popular culture. Its distinctive sound and thought-provoking lyrics have influenced countless artists and continue to be referenced in various media. The song’s introspective nature and its portrayal of social alienation have made it an enduring favorite among fans of classic rock and those who appreciate deeper, more contemplative music.

In essence, “People Are Strange” stands as a powerful example of Jim Morrison’s lyrical genius and the musical innovation of The Doors. Its release as part of the influential “Strange Days” album reflects the band’s ability to blend existential themes with a unique sound, creating a track that remains both evocative and relevant decades after its debut.

Video

Lyrics

People are strange
When you’re a stranger
Faces look ugly
When you’re alone
Women seem wicked
When you’re unwanted
Streets are uneven
When you’re down

When you’re strange
Faces come out of the rain
When you’re strange
No one remembers your name
When you’re strange
When you’re strange
When you’re strange

People are strange
When you’re a stranger
Faces look ugly
When you’re alone
Women seem wicked
When you’re unwanted
Streets are uneven
When you’re down

When you’re strange
Faces come out of the rain
When you’re strange
No one remembers your name
When you’re strange
When you’re strange
When you’re strange
All right, yeah!

When you’re strange
Faces come out of the rain
When you’re strange
No one remembers your name
When you’re strange
When you’re strange
When you’re strange