About the song
“People Are Strange,” a haunting and introspective track by American rock band The Doors, made its debut on their second studio album, *Strange Days*, released in September 1967. This evocative song, co-written by lead vocalist Jim Morrison and guitarist Robby Krieger, captures the band’s unique ability to blend deep emotional content with innovative musicality. While the song’s credits list all four band members, it was primarily Morrison and Krieger who shaped its distinctive sound and lyrical depth.
The genesis of “People Are Strange” began in early 1967, during a period of introspection and creativity for the band. According to drummer John Densmore, the songwriting process was influenced by a personal encounter with Morrison, who, initially appearing despondent, returned from a reflective walk with a burst of creative energy. As Morrison shared the emerging lyrics with his bandmates, he was visibly excited, describing a sudden wave of inspiration that led to the creation of this memorable song. The chorus, with its haunting melody, left a strong impression on Krieger, who sensed the potential for a hit.
Musically, “People Are Strange” reflects The Doors’ fascination with the theatrical and expressionist elements of European cabaret. The song delves into themes of alienation and the feeling of being an outsider, resonating with listeners who may feel detached from mainstream society. This sense of estrangement can be interpreted as a commentary on the counterculture of the 1960s, including the hippie movement and the psychedelic experience.
Critics have praised the song for its compelling lyrics and engaging rhythm. Billboard noted it as an “easy rocker with compelling lyric,” while Cash Box highlighted its “smashing performance,” emphasizing the “mid-speed setting” that enhances the black humor of the lyrics. The song’s production and overall craftsmanship received high marks, cementing its status as a standout track.
The impact of “People Are Strange” extended beyond music, influencing contemporary art. In 2023, the song inspired works by artist George Condo, demonstrating its enduring resonance and the continued relevance of its themes. With its evocative lyrics and unique sound, “People Are Strange” remains a significant piece in The Doors’ discography and a powerful reflection of the era’s cultural and emotional landscape.
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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