About the song
## Riders on the Storm: A Dark and Stormy Night
**The Doors**’ “Riders on the Storm” is a haunting, atmospheric masterpiece that has captivated audiences for decades. Released in 1971 as the opening track on their fifth studio album, _L.A. Woman_, the song is a stark departure from the band’s previous psychedelic rock sound.
The song’s title itself evokes a sense of foreboding and danger. “Riders” could be interpreted as a metaphor for the forces of nature, or perhaps even for the inevitability of death. The “storm” is a recurring theme throughout the song, symbolizing both the chaos of the natural world and the turmoil within the human soul.
Musically, “Riders on the Storm” is a minimalist and hypnotic piece. The driving bassline, combined with Ray Manzarek’s haunting organ and Jim Morrison’s spoken-word vocals, creates a dark and brooding atmosphere. The song’s repetitive structure and minimalist instrumentation allow Morrison’s lyrics to take center stage.
Morrison’s lyrics in “Riders on the Storm” are both cryptic and evocative. He paints a vivid picture of a desolate landscape, where the rain pours down relentlessly and the wind howls. The lyrics are filled with references to death and destruction, as well as a sense of impending doom. Morrison’s delivery is often spoken rather than sung, adding to the song’s raw and intimate feel.
The song’s ending is particularly haunting. As the music fades out, Morrison’s voice can be heard repeating the phrase “Riders on the storm.” This repetition creates a sense of endlessness and despair, as if the storm will never end.
“Riders on the Storm” is a complex and powerful song that has been interpreted in many different ways. Some have seen it as a commentary on the destructive forces of nature, while others have interpreted it as a metaphor for the human condition. Regardless of its meaning, the song is a testament to The Doors’ unique artistry and their ability to create music that is both haunting and beautiful.
Video
Lyrics
Riders on the storm
Riders on the storm
Into this house, we’re born
Into this world, we’re thrown
Like a dog without a bone
An actor out on loan
Riders on the storm
There’s a killer on the road
His brain is squirmin’ like a toad
Take a long holiday
Let your children play
If you give this man a ride
Sweet family will die
Killer on the road, yeah
Girl, you gotta love your man
Girl, you gotta love your man
Take him by the hand
Make him understand
The world on you depends
Our life will never end
Gotta love your man, yeah
Riders on the storm
Riders on the storm
Into this house, we’re born
Into this world, we’re thrown
Like a dog without a bone
An actor out on loan
Riders on the storm
Riders on the storm
Riders on the storm
Riders on the storm
Riders on the storm