The Doors perform ”Roadhouse Blues” on an outdoor stage outside Frankfurt City Hall in 1970

About the song

**Roadhouse Blues: A Timeless Anthem of Rock and Roll**

In 1970, The Doors released their third studio album, *Morrison Hotel*. This album, a blend of blues, rock, and jazz, solidified the band’s reputation as one of the most influential groups of the era. Among its standout tracks, “Roadhouse Blues” stands as a timeless anthem of rock and roll, capturing the essence of the band’s raw energy and poetic lyrics.

The song’s opening riff, a simple, bluesy guitar pattern, immediately sets the stage for a tale of gritty realism. Morrison’s vocals, raspy and full of character, draw listeners into a world of dimly lit bars, smoky air, and the relentless pursuit of pleasure. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a night out on the town, filled with the promise of excitement and the inevitable letdown that often follows.

The song’s structure is deceptively simple, relying on a repetitive chorus and a series of verses that explore different aspects of the night’s events. Morrison’s lyrics are filled with imagery and symbolism, hinting at themes of loneliness, addiction, and the fleeting nature of life. The line “Waiting for the sun to come up, waiting for the night to go” captures the melancholic undercurrent that runs through the song.

The band’s performance is nothing short of electrifying. The rhythm section, consisting of John Densmore on drums and Ray Manzarek on keyboards, provides a solid foundation for the song, while Robbie Krieger’s guitar work adds a touch of bluesy sophistication. Morrison’s vocals are raw and powerful, conveying a sense of desperation and longing.

“Roadhouse Blues” is more than just a catchy song; it’s a snapshot of a particular time and place. It captures the spirit of the 1960s, with its rebellious energy and search for meaning. The song’s enduring popularity is a testament to its timeless appeal, and it continues to resonate with audiences of all ages. Whether you’re a longtime fan of The Doors or simply appreciate great rock music, “Roadhouse Blues” is a song that deserves a place in your collection.

Video

Lyrics

Keep your eyes on the road, your hands upon the wheel
Keep your eyes on the road, your hands upon the wheel
Yeah, we’re goin’ to the Roadhouse
Gonna have a real
Good time

Yeah, in back of the Roadhouse they got some bungalows
Yeah, in back of the Roadhouse they got some bungalows
Death’s for the people
Who like to go down slow

Let it roll, baby, roll
Let it roll, baby, roll
Let it roll, baby, roll
Let it roll, all night long

You gotta roll, roll, roll
You gotta thrill my soul, alright

Roll, roll, roll, roll, a’thrill my soul
Ya gotta beep a gonk a chucha
Honk konk konk
Ya gotta, each you puna
Each ya, bop a lula
Each ya’ll, bump a kechonk
Ease some konk
Ya, ride

Ashen lady, Ashen lady
Give up your vows, give up your vows
Save our city, save our city
Right now

And I woke up, good mornin’, and I got myself a beer
Yeah, I woke up, good mornin’, and I got myself a beer
The future’s uncertain and the end is always near

Let it roll, baby, roll
Let it roll, baby, roll
Let it roll, baby, roll
Let it roll, all night long