Exploring Roadhouse Blues by The Doors
The Doors’ “Roadhouse Blues” is a renowned rock song featured on their 1970 album “Morrison Hotel.” Despite its initial chart performance, the song gained significant popularity through extensive airplay on rock radio stations and became a staple in the band’s live performances.
Recording and Production
The song was recorded over two days in November 1969, with producer Paul A. Rothchild insisting on multiple takes to capture the essence of the song accurately. The band showcased their musical prowess and distinctive sound during the recording process.
Lyrics and Performance
Lead vocalist Jim Morrison, reportedly under the influence during the recording sessions, stumbled over some of the lyrics and repeated the phrase “Money beats soul every time.” Guitarist Robby Krieger’s contributions are noteworthy, as he is responsible for all guitar parts on “Roadhouse Blues.” Morrison’s enthusiastic encouragement can be heard at the beginning of the guitar solo when he exclaims, “Do it, Robby, do it!” The song also features the talents of Lonnie Mack on bass, Ray Manzarek on tack piano, and John Sebastian (credited as “G. Puglese” due to contractual reasons) on harmonica.
Cultural Impact
Despite its relatively unsuccessful chart peak, “Roadhouse Blues” received strong airplay on rock radio stations and became a concert staple for the band. The song holds a special place in the band’s discography and has gained recognition beyond its original release. Alice Cooper even claimed to be the inspiration behind the famous line, “Woke up this morning and I got myself a beer.” The song’s universal appeal has led to numerous cover versions by various artists, and it has been featured in different iterations on albums and in movies.
Conclusion
“Roadhouse Blues” represents the musical prowess and unique style of The Doors. Its catchy melodies, energetic performances, and memorable lyrics have made it a beloved classic in rock music history.
Sources:
- Wikipedia contributors. “Roadhouse Blues.” Wikipedia. (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Roadhouse_Blues)
- Genius. “The Doors – Roadhouse Blues Lyrics.” Genius Lyrics. (https://genius.com/The-doors-roadhouse-blues-lyrics)
- Wildermuth, Kurt. “Perfect Sound Forever: The Doors’ Roadhouse Blues.” Perfect Sound Forever. (http://www.furious.com/perfect/doorsroadhouseblues.html)
FAQs
Exploring Roadhouse Blues by The Doors
What album is “Roadhouse Blues” by The Doors featured on?
“Roadhouse Blues” is featured on The Doors’ 1970 album “Morrison Hotel.”
How did “Roadhouse Blues” perform on the charts?
“Roadhouse Blues” was released as the B-side of “You Make Me Real” and charted on the Cash Box Top 100, peaking at No. 76.
Was “Roadhouse Blues” a popular song despite its chart performance?
Yes, despite its relatively low chart peak, “Roadhouse Blues” received strong airplay on rock radio stations and became a concert staple for The Doors.
Who was responsible for the guitar parts on “Roadhouse Blues”?
Guitarist Robby Krieger is responsible for all guitar parts on “Roadhouse Blues.”
Who contributed to the recording of “Roadhouse Blues”?
The song features Lonnie Mack on bass, Ray Manzarek on tack piano, and John Sebastian (credited as “G. Puglese” for contractual reasons) on harmonica, in addition to the band members of The Doors.
Did Jim Morrison make any mistakes during the recording of “Roadhouse Blues”?
Jim Morrison, who was reportedly intoxicated during the sessions, flubbed several lyrics and repeated the phrase “Money beats soul every time” in some takes.
Has “Roadhouse Blues” been covered by other artists?
Yes, “Roadhouse Blues” has been covered by numerous artists, showcasing its enduring popularity and influence in the music industry.
Has “Roadhouse Blues” been featured in movies or on other albums?
Yes, “Roadhouse Blues” has appeared in various versions on albums and in movies, further solidifying its cultural impact.