About the song
“L.A. Woman,” the sixth studio album by the iconic American rock band The Doors, was released on April 19, 1971, by Elektra Records. This album holds a poignant place in the band’s legacy as it was the last to feature the legendary lead singer Jim Morrison during his lifetime. Tragically, Morrison passed away just two months and two weeks after the album’s release, marking an end to an era but not to the band’s influence on rock music. Although Morrison would make a posthumous appearance on the 1978 album *An American Prayer*, *L.A. Woman* remains a powerful testament to his artistry and the band’s enduring spirit.
What makes *L.A. Woman* stand out is its deep dive into blues influences, a departure from the more experimental sounds of the band’s previous works. The album was recorded after producer Paul A. Rothchild departed due to dissatisfaction with the band’s studio performance. This change led The Doors to co-produce the album with their longtime sound engineer Bruce Botnick, resulting in a raw, gritty sound that harks back to their blues-rock roots.
The album’s lead single, “Love Her Madly,” was released in March 1971 and quickly gained traction, reaching the Top 20 on the Billboard Hot 100. The album itself achieved commercial success, peaking at number nine on the Billboard 200 and reaching number 28 on the UK Albums Chart. Another notable track, “Riders on the Storm,” also enjoyed significant chart success, further cementing the album’s place in rock history.
Critics have consistently praised *L.A. Woman* for its unapologetic embrace of blues and Morrison’s compelling vocal performance. Esteemed reviewers such as Richie Unterberger and David Quantick have highlighted it as one of The Doors’ finest achievements, noting how it captures the essence of the band’s raw, unfiltered energy. With its soulful blues undertones and Morrison’s intense delivery, *L.A. Woman* remains a defining work in The Doors’ discography and a fitting swan song for one of rock’s most enigmatic frontmen.
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