"Riders on the Storm" is a song by the American rock band The Doors, from their 1971 album "L.A. Woman." Here are some interesting facts about the song:
Last Recorded Track with Jim Morrison: "Riders on the Storm" was one of the last songs recorded by The Doors before the death of their lead singer, Jim Morrison. The album "L.A. Woman" was recorded in December 1970 and January 1971, just a few months before Morrison's passing in July 1971.
Atmospheric Sound: The song is known for its atmospheric and moody sound, featuring a distinctive Fender Rhodes electric piano played by Ray Manzarek. This gives the song a distinct texture and contributes to its "rainy" and introspective atmosphere.
Longer Version: The album version of "Riders on the Storm" is just over seven minutes long, making it one of The Doors' longer songs. The song features a slow and deliberate tempo, contributing to its hypnotic and mesmerizing quality.
Inspired by Western Films: The song's lyrics were inspired by Morrison's love of western movies, particularly the film "Riders of the Storm" (1966), directed by Monte Hellman. Morrison was drawn to the idea of being a "rider on the storm," which he saw as a metaphor for the journey of life and its uncertainties.
Lyrical Themes: The song's lyrics touch on themes of mortality, uncertainty, and the journey of life. The line "Into this house we're born, into this world we're thrown" reflects Morrison's contemplation of the human condition and the mysteries of existence.
Single Release: "Riders on the Storm" was released as a single in 1971 after the album's release. It didn't achieve the same commercial success as some of The Doors' earlier hits, but it has since become one of their most iconic and enduring songs.
Collaborative Composition: The songwriting credits for "Riders on the Storm" are attributed to all four members of The Doors: Jim Morrison, Ray Manzarek, Robby Krieger, and John Densmore. This collaborative effort showcases the band's ability to blend their individual musical talents into a cohesive sound.
Legal Dispute: The song's bassline bears a resemblance to the bassline from the song "Ghost Riders in the Sky," which led to a legal dispute over royalties. The Doors eventually settled the matter out of court by agreeing to share some of the song's royalties with the authors of "Ghost Riders in the Sky."
Cinematic Quality: The song's evocative and cinematic quality has led to its use in numerous films, TV shows, and commercials. It's often chosen to create a mood of mystery, tension, or introspection in visual media.
Legacy: "Riders on the Storm" remains one of The Doors' most beloved songs and continues to be celebrated by fans and music enthusiasts. Its timeless sound and introspective lyrics have contributed to its enduring popularity over the decades.
"Riders on the Storm" is a testament to The Doors' ability to craft music that is both thought-provoking and musically captivating, making it a standout track in their discography.