About the song
**Eight Miles High: A Psychedelic Journey**
Released in 1966, “Eight Miles High” by The Byrds stands as a landmark in the history of rock music, a sonic exploration that pushed the boundaries of popular music at the time. This psychedelic masterpiece is a testament to the band’s innovative spirit and their ability to blend folk, rock, and jazz elements into a unique and captivating sound.
The song’s title, “Eight Miles High,” is a reference to the cruising altitude of a jet plane. This imagery sets the stage for a journey into the stratosphere of consciousness, a place where the mundane realities of everyday life are left far behind. The opening guitar riff, with its intricate intertwining melodies, immediately draws the listener into this psychedelic realm.
The lyrics of “Eight Miles High” are deliberately ambiguous and open to interpretation. While some have suggested that the song is about drug use, others believe it’s a more abstract exploration of the human psyche. Regardless of the specific meaning, the lyrics evoke a sense of wonder, mystery, and a longing for something beyond the ordinary.
The Byrds’ harmonies are a hallmark of their sound, and they are on full display in “Eight Miles High.” The interplay between Roger McGuinn’s lead vocals and the backing harmonies of David Crosby, Gene Clark, and Chris Hillman creates a rich and textured sound that is both beautiful and haunting.
The song’s instrumental break is a showcase of the band’s virtuosity. McGuinn’s guitar playing is particularly impressive, as he weaves in and out of the complex chord progressions with ease. The rhythm section, anchored by John York’s bass and Michael Clarke’s drums, provides a solid foundation for the song’s psychedelic explorations.
“Eight Miles High” is a testament to the Byrds’ pioneering spirit and their ability to create music that is both timeless and groundbreaking. It’s a song that continues to inspire and captivate listeners decades after its release. Whether you’re a longtime fan of the Byrds or simply curious about the history of rock music, “Eight Miles High” is a must-listen.
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Lyrics
Eight miles high, and when you touch down
You’ll find that it’s stranger than known
Signs in the street, that say where you’re going
Are somewhere just being their own
Nowhere is there warmth to be found
Among those afraid of losing their ground
Rain gray town, known for its sound
In places, small faces unbound
Round the squares, huddled in storms
Some laughing, some just shapeless forms
Sidewalk scenes, and black limousines
Some living, some standing alone