About the song
“Soul Kitchen,” a standout track from The Doors’ debut album *The Doors*, epitomizes the band’s early sound and creative spirit. Released in 1967, the song is a homage to Olivia’s, a soul food restaurant in Venice Beach, California, where lead singer Jim Morrison frequently dined. Known for its evocative lyrics and rhythmic groove, the song captures Morrison’s personal experiences and fondness for the establishment, reflected in the lines, “let me sleep all night, in your soul kitchen,” a nod to his late-night visits.
Musically, “Soul Kitchen” is characterized by its unique composition. It is set in the key of A Major and features a Dorian mode alternation between i and IV chords, which contributes to its distinctive sound. Morrison’s vocal range spans from E4 to A5, showcasing his versatility and emotional depth. Guitarist Robby Krieger, influenced by soul-singer James Brown, aimed to replicate a horn section’s feel through the song’s prominent riff, adding a layer of funk and rhythm. This riff is integral to the track, providing a driving force throughout.
The song’s critical reception has been notably positive. Sal Cinquemani of Slant Magazine hailed “Soul Kitchen” as a “classic Doors song,” highlighting its enduring appeal. Rock critic Greil Marcus compared it to Van Morrison’s “Gloria,” noting how “Soul Kitchen” slows down the cadence to create a deliberate and physical sense of rhythm. Paul Williams of *Crawdaddy!* magazine likened its message to that of Bob Dylan’s “Blowin’ in the Wind,” with “Soul Kitchen” conveying a raw, impactful message to “learn to forget.” David Fricke praised the song for its “crisp funk,” seeing it as a culmination of The Doors’ live performance prowess.
Richie Unterberger of AllMusic commended the track for its “stomping rock,” and *The Guardian* later ranked it as the sixth greatest Doors song in 2021. There is some debate over who played the bass on the track, with engineer Bruce Botnick recalling session musician Larry Knechtel’s involvement in overdubbing the bass, while Robby Krieger insists that he played it himself.
Overall, “Soul Kitchen” remains a testament to The Doors’ innovative approach and musical creativity, blending rock, funk, and blues into a memorable and influential piece of their early repertoire.
Video
Lyrics
Well, the clock says it’s time to close now
I guess I’d better go now
I’d really like to stay here all night
The cars crawl past all stuffed with eyes
Street lights share their hollow glow
Your brain seems bruised with numb surprise
Still one place to go
Still one place to go
Let me sleep all night in your soul kitchen
Warm my mind near your gentle stove
Turn me out and I’ll wander, baby
Stumblin’ in the neon groves
Well, your fingers weave quick minarets
Speak in secret alphabets
I light another cigarette
Learn to forget, learn to forget
Learn to forget, learn to forget
Let me sleep all night in your soul kitchen
Warm my mind near your gentle stove
Turn me out and I’ll wander, baby
Stumblin’ in the neon groves (yeah)
Well, the clock says it’s time to close now
I know I have to go now
I really wanna stay here
All night, all night, all night