by Tyler Conley

Before the release of the first album, way before the legacy and creation that The Doors became, no one, not even the band themselves, would realize the lasting impact they would have on the music industry and rock and roll as we know it today.

The Doors first got their kicks of being a band in 1965, playing small venues, with nervous frontman Jim Morrison turning his back on the audience as he sang to avoid stage fright. Also included were Ray Manzarek at the helm of keyboard bass and organ, Robby Krieger laying down chords and bluesy solos, and John Densmore putting down rhythms unmatched and unheard of at the time. This lineup would stick together until the eventual breakup of the band. 

When 1967 struck, it was time to record the first record. For 10 thousand dollars a 4- track recorder was purchased. With the help of Paul A. Rothchild, the band began their sessions for their self-titled debut. Rehearsal outtakes were recorded of songs that would appear on later records, but the first actual songs recorded were “I Looked at You” and “Take It as It Comes.” 

With the combined power and input of all band members, the band completed recording. “Light My Fire” became an instant success, reaching #1 on Billboard charts, along with “Break on Through (To the Other Side.)” At the time The Doors arrived, rock was in absolute infancy, especially when compared to today’s standards for what “rock” is. With a mixture of blues, soul, rock, and everything in between, this album is a gem for anyone a fan of those genres. 

Morrison’s lyricism is a big factor in what makes the music magical. His outlook on life, his expressions of feelings and ideas are perfect. The final song on the record, an 11-minute epic, details fighting past trauma and getting over the past. Most of the love songs the Doors would write on this record and many more are about Morrison’s longtime girlfriend, Pamela. 

Over Morrison’s life, controversy has played a big part in how people perceive him. People label the singer as a drunk, and stupid. But behind those bad, vulnerable moments is a person who was caring and compassionate. Back in the 60s, mental help wasn’t as easily accessible as it is now.

This album changed my life when I first heard it. The beautifulness of “The Crystal Ship” And “End of The Night,” and the killer tunes of “Break on through (To the Other Side)” and “Twentieth Century Fox.” These songs, and much more, make up one of the best debut albums of all time.

And if that alone isn’t enough to pique your interest, artists like Jay-Z and Lauryn Hill have sampled The Doors’ music in their works. The Doors are respected by every genre, and heavily influential.

The Doors are engraved into the heart of rock and roll, and the music industry as a whole. Jim Morrison, and all members respectively, are like cosmic brothers, and their music is there for the listener whenever they need it. When people are strange, music will always be waiting with open arms, and this album is no exception. Top to bottom, perfection.