People Are Strange

The song People Are Strange by The Doors, featured on their 1967 album Strange Days, carries a fascinating backstory rooted in Jim Morrison's emotional state. According to Doors drummer John Densmore in his book Riders on the Storm, Morrison was battling depression and writer's block when he visited Densmore and guitarist Robby Krieger, who were roommates at the time. Krieger suggested a walk through Laurel Canyon in Los Angeles, and Morrison returned from the hike feeling euphoric, with the early lyrics for the song. Krieger later recalled being convinced it was a hit upon hearing Morrison's vocal melody, a sentiment echoed by the song's eventual peak at number 12 on the Billboard Hot 100. The track, credited to all band members, captures a sense of alienation, which some fans attribute to Morrison's observations of societal disconnect, though others have speculated about an LSD influence—a claim Densmore and others refute, emphasizing Morrison's poetic intent over drug-fueled inspiration.

Another layer of trivia comes from a 2020 post by The Doors' official X account, which described People Are Strange as "one of the finest encapsulations of an acid trip ever set to music" without Morrison being under the influence during its creation. The song's cultural impact extends beyond its original release, inspiring a 1987 cover by Echo & the Bunnymen for the film The Lost Boys, produced by Doors keyboardist Ray Manzarek, which reached number 29 on the UK Singles Chart. Additionally, in 2023, artist George Condo cited the song as an influence for his paintings, showcasing its enduring artistic reach. The track's distinct sound, blending Morrison's haunting vocals with the band's psychedelic rock, continues to resonate with fans, or "Zoo Freaks," tuning into THE ZOO radio station.

The Doors formed in Los Angeles in 1965, born from a chance encounter between Jim Morrison and Ray Manzarek on Venice Beach. Morrison, a UCLA film student with a passion for poetry, shared his lyrics with Manzarek, a classically trained keyboardist. Inspired by Morrison's words, particularly for the song Moonlight Drive, Manzarek suggested forming a band. They recruited guitarist Robby Krieger and drummer John Densmore, both from the local music scene, and named the band after Aldous Huxley's book The Doors of Perception, reflecting their aim to push artistic boundaries. Their early gigs at venues like the Whisky a Go Go honed their provocative, theatrical style, blending rock, blues, and psychedelia. The 1967 release of their self-titled debut album, featuring hits like Light My Fire, catapulted them to fame, establishing their reputation for challenging norms and captivating audiences with Morrison's enigmatic presence.

Fans can explore more about The Doors through their official website, which offers updates on music releases and band history. Their social media presence includes Facebook, Instagram, and X, where they share archival content and engage with fans. For deeper community interaction, fans can join groups like the Doors Fans Facebook group, a vibrant space for enthusiasts to discuss the band's legacy. Additionally, DoorsHistory.com serves as a fan-driven website with detailed timelines, discographies, and rare photos, perfect for Zoo Freaks eager to dive into the band's storied past.