About the song
“L.A. Woman” by The Doors is an iconic track that encapsulates the raw energy and distinctive style of the band during the height of their career. Released in 1971, this song is the title track of their sixth studio album, “L.A. Woman,” which is widely regarded as one of their finest works. The album was the last to feature Jim Morrison before his untimely death, adding a layer of poignancy to its legacy.
The song “L.A. Woman” was written by all four members of The Doors—Jim Morrison, Ray Manzarek, Robby Krieger, and John Densmore. It captures the essence of Los Angeles, with its gritty and evocative lyrics painting a vivid picture of life in the city. Lines like “Are you a lucky little lady in the City of Light / Or just another lost angel?” reflect Morrison’s fascination with the darker side of the city, blending his poetic sensibilities with a rock ‘n’ roll edge.
“L.A. Woman” achieved significant acclaim and commercial success. The album itself peaked at number nine on the Billboard 200 chart, and the song has since become one of The Doors’ most beloved tracks. It stands out for its driving rhythm, bluesy guitar riffs, and Morrison’s commanding vocal performance. The song’s length, over seven minutes, allows for an immersive experience that showcases the band’s musical prowess.
Musically, “L.A. Woman” is a tour de force. Ray Manzarek’s keyboard work provides a pulsating undercurrent that propels the song forward, while Robby Krieger’s guitar delivers both searing solos and rhythmic depth. John Densmore’s drumming is both steady and dynamic, anchoring the song’s various shifts in tempo and mood. Morrison’s vocals are at their most charismatic and intense, embodying the spirit of the city he sings about.
The song’s iconic phrase, “Mr. Mojo Risin’,” is an anagram of “Jim Morrison” and has become synonymous with the singer’s enigmatic persona. This playful yet profound lyric is just one example of Morrison’s ability to blend personal mythos with universal themes, making “L.A. Woman” not just a song, but a cultural artifact of its time.
“L.A. Woman” remains a staple of classic rock radio and continues to resonate with fans old and new. Its enduring appeal lies in its perfect encapsulation of The Doors’ unique sound and the timeless allure of its lyrics. For those who lived through the era, the song evokes memories of a transformative time in music and culture. For younger listeners, it offers a gateway into the world of one of rock’s most influential bands.
In conclusion, “L.A. Woman” is more than just a song; it’s a journey through the heart of Los Angeles, guided by one of the most iconic voices in rock history. Its place in The Doors’ discography is pivotal, marking the end of an era and cementing their legacy as pioneers of rock music. The song’s combination of lyrical depth, musical complexity, and raw emotion ensures its place in the pantheon of rock classics, captivating audiences for generations to come.
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Lyrics
Well, I just got into town about an hour ago
Took a look around, see which way the wind blow
Where the little girls in their Hollywood bungalows
Are you a lucky little lady in the city of light
Or just another lost angel, city of night
City of night, city of night, city of night, woo, come on
L.A. woman, L.A. woman
L.A. woman Sunday afternoon
L.A. woman Sunday afternoon
L.A. woman Sunday afternoon
Drive through your suburbs
Into your blues, into your blues, yeah
Into your blue-blue blues
Into your blues, oh, yeah
I see your hair is burnin’
Hills are filled with fire
If they say I never loved you
You know they are a liar
Drivin’ down your freeways
Midnight alleys roam
Cops in cars, the topless bars
Never saw a woman
So alone, so alone
So alone, so alone
Motel money murder madness
Let’s change the mood from glad to sadness
Mister mojo risin’, mister mojo risin’
Mister mojo risin’, mister mojo risin’
Got to keep on risin’
Mister mojo risin’, mister mojo risin’
Mojo risin’, gotta mojo risin’
Mister mojo risin’, gotta keep on risin’
Risin’, risin’
Gone risin’, risin’
I’m gone risin’, risin’
I gotta risin’, risin’
Well, risin’, risin’
I gotta, wooo, yeah, risin’
Woah, ohh yeah
Well, I just got into town about an hour ago
Took a look around, see which way the wind blow
Where the little girls in their Hollywood bungalows
Are you a lucky little lady in the city of light
Or just another lost angel, city of night
City of night, city of night, city of night, whoa, come on
L.A. woman, L.A. woman
L.A. woman, you’re my woman
Little L.A. woman, little L.A. woman
L.A. L.A. woman woman
L.A. woman, come on