The Doors, iconic for their blend of rock, blues, and psychedelic sounds, left an indelible mark on music history. Fronted by the enigmatic Jim Morrison, their catalog is rich with songs that are as complex and captivating today as they were in the late 1960s and early 70s. For fans exploring the vast landscape of Doors Songs, it can be daunting to know where to start. This list offers a curated journey through their discography, ranking 30 of their best tracks, from deep cuts to chart-topping hits, providing a roadmap for anyone wanting to delve into the world of The Doors’ music.
30. Queen of the Highway (1970)
Opening this list is “Queen of the Highway,” a raw and rollicking track from Morrison Hotel. This doors song is a gritty rocker inspired by Jim Morrison’s tumultuous relationship with Pamela Courson. Morrison’s lyrics paint a vivid picture of their love affair, comparing himself to a “monster dressed in leather” and Courson to the titular “Queen of the Highway.” The song’s energy and Morrison’s passionate delivery make it a standout example of the band’s harder-edged sound.
29. My Eyes Have Seen You (1967)
From their second album, Strange Days, “My Eyes Have Seen You” showcases the band’s experimental side. This doors song features a distinctive tango-like rhythm and a seductive, almost theatrical atmosphere. Robby Krieger’s concise guitar solo and Morrison’s suggestive lyrics about seduction make this track a unique and intriguing listen within the Doors’ repertoire.
28. Tightrope Ride (1971)
“Tightrope Ride” marks a significant moment in the Doors’ history. Released after Jim Morrison’s death, this doors song from Other Voices features Ray Manzarek taking lead vocals. It’s a powerful garage-rock anthem, driven by Manzarek’s energetic vocals and the band’s signature instrumental prowess, proving the band’s resilience and continued creativity even after the loss of their iconic frontman.
27. Love Street (1968)
“Love Street,” a gem from Waiting for the Sun, is a departure from the Doors’ typical blues-rock sound, leaning into baroque-rock territory. This doors song is characterized by Ray Manzarek’s delicate piano and keyboard work, which create a fragile, music-box-like melody. Combined with Krieger’s subtle guitar and Morrison’s whimsical lyrics, “Love Street” is a beautifully crafted and somewhat unexpected track in their catalog, showcasing their versatility.
The Doors lineup in 1967, featuring John Densmore, Robbie Krieger, Ray Manzarek, and Jim Morrison, highlighting the band in their early, iconic formation.
26. Waiting for the Sun (1970)
The title track from Waiting for the Sun, though appearing later on Morrison Hotel, captures a shift in the Doors’ sonic landscape. This doors song presents a darker, more distorted sound, reflecting the changing times and the band’s evolving energy as the 1970s approached. Its fuzzy, ominous vibe is a testament to their ability to adapt and explore new sonic textures.
25. Wild Child (1969)
Emerging from the turbulent Soft Parade era, “Wild Child” is a raw and rebellious doors song. Reflecting the discord and chaos surrounding the band at the time, particularly Morrison’s Miami arrest, the track is a gritty, attitude-laden rocker. It serves as a bridge between the psychedelic rock of the 60s and the emerging sounds of proto-punk and heavy metal, demonstrating the Doors’ influence on future genres.
24. Hardwood Floor (1972)
From Full Circle, the second post-Morrison album, “Hardwood Floor” is a Stones-esque rocker that stands out. This doors song benefits from the session work of Leland Sklar on bass, adding a strong rhythmic foundation. It’s a more straightforward rock track compared to some of their more experimental work, yet it retains the band’s signature musicianship and energy.
23. Tell All the People (1969)
“Tell All the People” from The Soft Parade is notable for its lyrical controversy and musical tranquility. This doors song reportedly caused friction due to Morrison’s dislike of a gun reference, leading to separate songwriting credits on the album. Despite the lyrical hint of violence, the song itself is peaceful, featuring lush horns and gentle piano, showcasing the band’s ability to create complex and layered arrangements. Its influence can be heard in later bands like Primal Scream and Spiritualized.
22. When the Music’s Over (1967)
Closing Strange Days, “When the Music’s Over” is an epic sonic journey. This doors song exemplifies the Doors’ ability to blend structure with improvisation. Beginning with roaring guitars and organ, it evolves through distinct musical movements, including a nod to Herbie Hancock’s “Watermelon Man” by Manzarek. It’s a sprawling and dynamic track that highlights the band’s musical cohesion and adventurous spirit.
Jim Morrison and Pamela Courson in 1969, a photograph capturing the personal life that often inspired Morrison’s songwriting within Doors songs.
21. Summer’s Almost Gone (1968)
“Summer’s Almost Gone” perfectly captures the melancholy of fleeting summer romances. This doors song from Waiting for the Sun features an uncharacteristically subdued Morrison reflecting on ephemeral moments. The band matches this mood with swirling keyboards, somber piano, and understated drums and guitar, creating a poignant and reflective piece.
20. Love Me Two Times (1967)
A bluesy and energetic track from their self-titled debut, “Love Me Two Times” is a classic roadhouse blues number. This doors song is known for its frenzied harpsichord bridge and suggestive lyrics. Krieger’s guitar twang and Densmore’s jazzy drumming provide a vigorous backdrop for Morrison’s raspy vocals, making it a lively and memorable track.
19. I Can’t See Your Face in My Mind (1967)
“I Can’t See Your Face in My Mind,” from Strange Days, shows the Beatles’ Sgt Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band‘s influence on the Doors. This doors song is a space-rock infused, lounge-jazz piece, demonstrating their willingness to experiment with psychedelic pop elements. It’s a mind-bending track that further expands the sonic palette of their second album.
18. Wintertime Love (1968)
“Wintertime Love,” also from Waiting for the Sun, offers a contrast to “Summer’s Almost Gone.” This doors song is an optimistic waltz, celebrating the warmth of love during cold times. It’s a stately and comforting track, highlighting the band’s ability to explore different emotional landscapes within their music.
17. L’America (1971)
Originally intended for the film Zabriskie Point, “L’America” found its home on LA Woman. This doors song is characterized by Krieger’s heavy psychedelic blues riffs and Manzarek’s unsettling keyboards, perfectly foreshadowing the album’s darker, seedier atmosphere. Despite being rejected by the film director, it became a crucial part of the LA Woman experience.
16. The Changeling (1971)
“The Changeling” from LA Woman is a funk-rock strut that benefits from the presence of bassist Jerry Scheff, known for his work with Elvis Presley. This doors song is heavily groove-oriented and gritty, reminiscent of James Brown’s funk, showcasing a different side of the Doors’ musicality and their ability to incorporate diverse influences into their sound.
The Doors performing live in Germany in 1968, illustrating their international appeal and the live energy behind many doors songs.
15. The Crystal Ship (1967)
“The Crystal Ship,” from their debut album, is often misinterpreted as a drug song, but Densmore clarified it as a goodbye love song for Mary Werbelow. This doors song is spare and bittersweet, featuring Morrison’s aching vocals and Manzarek’s delicate piano interlude. Its sadness and understated beauty make it a deeply emotional track.
14. Alabama Song (Whisky Bar) (1967)
“Alabama Song (Whisky Bar)” is a unique cover within the Doors’ catalog, originally composed by Bertolt Brecht and Kurt Weill. This doors song is given a Doors twist, transforming it into a debaucherous carnival soundtrack with oompah beats, crooked organ, and the use of a marxophone. It highlights their eclectic musical tastes and their ability to reinterpret existing works in their own style.
13. Peace Frog (1970)
“Peace Frog” from Morrison Hotel juxtaposes upbeat funk with chaotic lyrical imagery. This doors song draws from Morrison’s poetry and real-life events, including a 1967 arrest. The contrast between the song’s energetic music and Morrison’s intense lyrics makes it a compelling and dynamic track.
12. The End (1967)
“The End,” the epic closer of their debut album, is a defining doors song. It captures apocalyptic dread through nearly 12 minutes of droning organ, tangled guitar, and Morrison’s dramatic incantations. Like a psychedelic fog, it envelops the listener, making it a powerful and unforgettable album closer and a cornerstone of their early work.
11. Strange Days (1967)
The title track of Strange Days is notable for its use of the Moog synthesizer, a then-new instrument. This doors song utilizes the shimmering keyboard to create a futuristic and disoriented atmosphere, amplifying the bewildered mood of Morrison’s lyrics and adding subtle vocal effects, contributing to the album’s psychedelic exploration.
10. Roadhouse Blues (1970)
“Roadhouse Blues,” the opening track of Morrison Hotel, is a raw and fiery blues-rock anthem. This doors song is exactly as advertised: a gritty, smoldering rocker rooted in blues passion. Featuring guest musicians like Lonnie Mack and John Sebastian, it’s a high-energy track that exemplifies the Doors’ blues influences and their ability to create powerful, driving rock music.
9. Hello, I Love You (1968)
“Hello, I Love You,” a massive hit from Waiting for the Sun, is known for its catchy melody and Morrison’s desire-fueled vocals. While its chord progression is similar to The Kinks’ “All Day and All of the Night,” this doors song stands on its own with Morrison’s charismatic performance and the band’s fuzzed-out energy, becoming one of their most recognizable and popular tracks.
8. LA Woman (1971)
The title track of LA Woman is a sprawling jazz-folk odyssey driven by buoyant piano. This doors song captures the Doors in a loose, improvisational mood. Its shifting tempos and Morrison’s evocative vocals paint a picture of Los Angeles’ wild side and his own mythos, serving as a powerful and iconic representation of the album and the city it celebrates.
7. Moonlight Drive (1967)
“Moonlight Drive” holds a special place in Doors history as the song Morrison sang to Manzarek at their first meeting, leading to the band’s formation. This doors song is driven by Manzarek’s economical piano and Krieger’s slide guitar, creating a mystical blues-rock vibe. It’s a foundational track that encapsulates the early sound and spirit of The Doors.
Jim Morrison captured in 1968, a year rich with iconic Doors songs and performances.
6. Soul Kitchen (1967)
“Soul Kitchen,” from their debut, is ostensibly about a Venice Beach cafe, but it can also be interpreted as a song about finding solace in love. This doors song is storming and soulful, and has been covered by bands like Echo and the Bunnymen and X, highlighting its enduring appeal and influence across genres.
5. Touch Me (1969)
“Touch Me” from The Soft Parade is known for its prominent horns and strings, initially disliked by Krieger but eventually embraced. This doors song is elevated by Morrison’s theatrical vocal performance, drawing on influences from Elvis Presley to jazz singers. The added instrumentation creates a grand, almost orchestral feel, making it a distinctive and powerful track.
4. People Are Strange (1967)
“People Are Strange,” from Strange Days, is an anthem for the alienated. This doors song captures a downtrodden mood with lyrics about feeling like an outsider. Musically, however, it’s surprisingly upbeat and theatrical, creating a compelling contrast that has resonated with listeners for decades.
3. Light My Fire (1967)
“Light My Fire,” from their debut album, is arguably the Doors’ most famous song. Remarkably, it was Krieger’s first songwriting attempt. This doors song features complex arrangements, including Manzarek’s iconic intro and Morrison’s lyrics exploring the intersection of love and death. Its musical complexity and dramatic flair cemented its place as a classic rock staple.
2. Break on Through (To the Other Side) (1967)
“Break on Through (To the Other Side),” their debut single, exemplifies the Doors’ ability to create something original from diverse influences. This doors song incorporates elements from Paul Butterfield, Ray Charles, Stan Getz, and Them, yet its quivering bass line and explosive dynamics sound uniquely Doors. It’s a powerful and innovative track that announced their arrival on the music scene.
1. Riders on the Storm (1971)
Topping the list is “Riders on the Storm,” from LA Woman, often considered the quintessential Doors song. This doors song was the last music Morrison recorded with the band. Born from a jam on “(Ghost) Riders in the Sky: A Cowboy Legend,” it evolved into a gothic-twang epic with Manzarek’s Rhodes piano and Morrison’s murmured lyrics referencing both a serial killer and his personal life. Its mysterious and atmospheric quality perfectly encapsulates the enduring mystique of The Doors and Jim Morrison, making it the ultimate doors song.
This ranking provides a comprehensive guide to some of the best doors songs, showcasing the band’s evolution, musical innovation, and lasting impact on rock music. Whether you are a long-time fan or new to their music, exploring these tracks offers a deep dive into the legendary world of The Doors.
